Sausage & Cream Cheese Pinwheels

ByHannah Peterson

Diabetic-Friendly Sausage & Cream Cheese Pinwheels

A Cozy, Low-Carb Twist on a Classic Party Favorite

If you’ve been searching for the perfect make-ahead breakfast bite or party appetizer that still supports a diabetic-friendly lifestyle, these Sausage & Cream Cheese Pinwheels are about to become your new go-to. They come together with simple ingredients, bake into golden, cheesy spirals, and—best of all—can be made with low-carb or whole-grain dough to help keep blood sugar steady.

This recipe recreates the comforting flavor combo of savory sausage, velvety cream cheese, and sharp cheddar, all tucked inside a tender pastry swirl. The result? A warm, satisfying little pinwheel that feels indulgent without throwing your glucose off track.

⭐ Why You’ll Love These (Especially if You’re Diabetic)

  • Lower-carb option: Use low-carb tortillas, whole-wheat crescent dough, or homemade low-carb pastry.
  • Protein-rich: Sausage + cheese helps prevent blood sugar spikes.
  • Easy to prep ahead: Freeze before or after baking.
  • Perfect for breakfast, brunch, snacks, or entertaining.

🧾 Ingredients

Filling

  • 1 lb ground sausage (choose lean or chicken/turkey sausage for lighter carbs & fat)
  • 4 oz reduced-fat cream cheese, softened
  • 1 – 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • Optional: 1–2 tbsp chopped green onions
  • Optional: ¼ tsp garlic powder or Italian seasoning

Dough Options (choose one)

  • Low-carb tortillas (easiest, lowest carb)
  • Whole-wheat crescent dough
  • Low-carb puff pastry (if available)

🍳 Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned. Drain excess fat.
Transfer to a mixing bowl and stir in the cream cheese while the sausage is still warm.
Add cheddar (and seasonings/green onions if using) and mix gently.

2. Roll It Up

Lay your dough or tortilla flat.
Spread the sausage-cream cheese mixture evenly over the surface.
Roll tightly from one end to the other to create a log.

3. Slice

Using a sharp knife, slice the roll into ½–¾-inch pinwheels, as shown in the images.

4. Bake

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Place pinwheels on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Bake 14–18 minutes, or until golden, melty, and slightly crisp at the edges.

💡 Diabetic Tips & Swaps

✔ Choose the Right Dough

  • Lowest-carb option: Low-carb tortillas (often 4–6g net carbs each).
  • Better-for-you option: Whole-wheat crescent sheets.
  • Avoid traditional puff pastry, which is very high in refined carbs.

✔ Watch Portion Size

These are rich and satisfying—most people find 2–3 pinwheels plenty for a snack or light meal.

✔ Add Fiber

Mix in a spoonful of flax meal or serve with a fiber-rich veggie side to steady glucose.

🧊 Storage & Meal Prep

  • Fridge: 3–4 days
  • Freezer (unbaked): Freeze slices flat on a tray, then bag for 2–3 months.
  • Reheat: Air fryer 3–4 mins at 350°F or oven 5–7 mins.

🌟 Serving Ideas

  • Breakfast with scrambled eggs
  • Appetizer for game day
  • Brunch boards
  • Quick protein-packed snack

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