Cheese Twirls
Cheese twirls offer a savory, spicy blend of jalapeño cheese spread with a creamy, tangy filling of olives and cilantro, perfect for snacking or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Roll the process cheese spread between two pieces of wax paper to form a 9 x 12-inch rectangle.
- Beat the cream cheese, olives, and cilantro until well blended.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture over the process cheese spread.
- Starting at the narrow side, roll up to form a 9-inch roll.
- Garnish with additional cilantro, if desired.
- Chill, covered, until firm.
- Serve with assorted crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding more jalapeno pepper to the cheese spread or mixing in diced green chilies. If you can't find Mexican pasteurized process cheese, a blend of sharp cheddar and cream cheese can work as a substitute. Also, experiment with different herbs like parsley or basil instead of cilantro for varied flavor profiles. This recipe can easily adapt to include ingredients from other Mexican recipes.
Serving Suggestions
These cheese twirls are perfect for entertaining and pair beautifully with an assortment of crackers or sliced baguette. For a complete appetizer spread, consider serving them alongside guacamole or salsa. They also make a fantastic addition to a party platter featuring Hidden Valley Ranch Nachos and other finger foods.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can slice the rolls and place them in a warm oven for a few minutes, just until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it may change the texture of the cheese.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Twirls contains roughly 76 calories, with 3g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (138% of the Daily Value) and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these cheese twirls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cheese rolls a day in advance. Just complete the rolling process, wrap them tightly, and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld nicely, making them even tastier when served.
What can I serve these cheese twirls with?
These cheese twirls are versatile and pair well with various accompaniments. Consider serving them with fresh veggies, assorted crackers, or even alongside a zesty dip like salsa. They also complement cocktails or mocktails beautifully for gatherings.
Can I freeze the cheese twirls?
Yes, you can freeze the cheese twirls! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving, and enjoy them chilled or slightly warmed.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).