Vegan Pizza Pinwheels — That Vegan Dad

In the world of easy vegan snacks, puff pastry continues to be an absolute legend. Whether you're whipping something up for the kids' lunchboxes, a weekend picnic, or a party platter that’ll impress the non-vegans too – puff pastry has got your back. And today, I’m giving it a pizza-inspired twist with these mouth-watering Vegan Pizza Pinwheels.

These pinwheels are flaky, cheesy, and packed with that classic pizza flavour, all without any dairy or meat in sight. They’re ridiculously simple to make and even easier to devour. If you’ve ever made my vegan vegemite pinwheels, this one follows a similar process but brings in a bold tomatoey punch and a sprinkle of oregano for that Italian flair.

Let’s dive in and roll up something delicious.

Is Puff Pastry Vegan?

If you’ve spent any time wandering the frozen section of Aussie supermarkets, you’ll know that most puff pastry brands in Australia are accidentally vegan. They use plant-based oils instead of dairy butter to create those iconic flaky layers. But always double-check the ingredients list to be sure – some premium or butter-branded varieties still sneak in animal products.

So, with vegan-friendly puff pastry sorted, the rest of this recipe is a breeze.

Why You’ll Love These Vegan Pizza Pinwheels

There’s something truly special about a recipe that delivers big on flavour without the fuss – and that’s exactly what these Vegan Pizza Pinwheels are all about. Whether you're after a quick snack for the kids, something tasty to serve at a get-together, or a creative way to jazz up a lunchbox, these pinwheels are a real winner.

Super Quick to Make

Let’s be honest – no one’s got hours to spend in the kitchen after a busy day wrangling work, family, and everything in between. These vegan pizza pinwheels come together in no time at all. All you need is a sheet of vegan puff pastry, a bit of tomato paste, some vegan cheese, and your favourite herbs. That’s it. You can have them prepped and in the oven faster than the kids can ask, “What’s for arvo tea?”

Perfect for Kids and Adults

There’s no age limit on pizza love – and these pinwheels prove it. Our kids devour them straight from the oven, and I’ll be honest… I usually sneak a few for myself while they’re cooling. They’re great for kids lunchboxes (no soggy sandwiches here!), after-school snacks, or even as part of a weekend footy spread. Plus, because they’re bite-sized, they’re ideal for little hands – no cutlery required, no mess, no drama.

Customisable

This recipe is your blank canvas for pizza creativity. Want to add a handful of chopped mushrooms? Go for it. Got some olives that need using up? Toss them in. You can keep it simple or get fancy with capsicum, baby spinach, pineapple (controversial, I know), or even a sprinkle of plant-based pepperoni. Let the kids choose their own toppings – it’s a great way to get them involved in the kitchen and a sneaky way to encourage them to eat more veggies.

No Fancy Tools Needed

You don’t need to be a chef or have a kitchen full of gadgets to make these pinwheels. No rolling pins, mixers, or complicated equipment here – just your hands, a baking tray, and a bit of hunger. The simplicity is part of the charm. This is the kind of recipe you can pull together with what’s already in the fridge and pantry – no last-minute dashes to the shops required.

What Makes These Vegan Pizza Pinwheels So Good?

Let’s break it down a bit.

Tomato Paste – This gives you that rich, saucy pizza base flavour. It’s bold and tangy, and a little goes a long way.

Vegan Cheese – Choose your favourite brand here. Some melt better than others, but even the more budget-friendly options still bring that cheesy goodness we all love in pizza.

Oregano – This simple dried herb does all the heavy lifting when it comes to creating that authentic pizza shop aroma. As soon as these start baking, your kitchen will smell like heaven.

Nutritional Yeast – I love adding a sprinkle for extra depth and a subtle parmesan-style flavour. Plus, it’s a sneaky way to add some B12 to the mix.

Pizza Pinwheel Variations to Try

One of the best things about these Vegan Pizza Pinwheels is how adaptable they are. Here's a few ways to change it up:

Hawaiian-style: Add tiny pieces of pineapple and vegan ham.
Mushroom & Spinach: For something a little more savoury and earthy.
BBQ twist: Swap tomato paste for vegan BBQ sauce for a smoky flavour.
Mini Supreme: Add diced olives, capsicum, and red onion.

Let the kids get involved and choose their own toppings. It's a great way to get them into the kitchen (and more likely to eat their veggies).

Time-Saving Tip: Make Ahead and Freeze

Want to be snack-ready all week long? These pinwheels can be made ahead of time and frozen before baking. Just roll, slice, and pop them on a tray in the freezer. Once frozen solid, transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. When you're ready to bake, place them straight into a preheated oven – no thawing needed!

FAQs for Vegan Pizza Pinwheels

Can I use puff pastry straight from the freezer?
You’ll need to thaw it first. Otherwise, it’ll crack when you try to roll it. Just leave it on the bench for 10–15 minutes.

Which vegan cheese works best?
I’ve had great results with Bio Cheese, Sheese, and Made With Plants. Use whatever melts well and has a nice flavour.

Can I use pizza sauce instead of tomato paste?
Absolutely – pizza sauce works great too. Just don’t overdo it or your pastry might get soggy.

How do I store leftovers?
Pop them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for max crispiness.

These Vegan Pizza Pinwheels are proof that quick vegan snacks don’t have to be boring. They're flaky, cheesy, and full of flavour – everything you want from a pizza-inspired treat, wrapped up in golden puff pastry.

Whether you’re hosting mates, filling lunchboxes, or just craving something savoury, these pinwheels are always a win.

Happy baking, and let me know if you try any fun variations!

PRINT RECIPE

INGREDIENTS

Vegan Pizza Pinwheels

1 sheet vegan puff pastry
1–2 tbsp tomato paste
½ cup grated vegan cheese
Pinch of dried oregano
Pinch of nutritional yeast

METHOD

Preheat oven to 190°C. Line a tray with baking paper.
Roll out thawed pastry and spread with tomato paste. Sprinkle cheese, oregano, and nutritional yeast.
Roll into a log, slice into pinwheels.
Place on tray and bake 15–20 mins until golden.
Cool slightly and enjoy!

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