Easy Homemade Antojitos Recipe That Everyone Will Love

If you’ve ever been to a Canadian restaurant chain and ordered their famous Antojitos, you know exactly why they’re a fan favorite. Warm, cheesy, and packed with just the right amount of spice, these tortilla pinwheels are the kind of appetizer that disappears from the plate in minutes. The first time I made them at home, I was surprised at how simple they were to whip up—and honestly, I loved them even more than the restaurant version.

What I love about this recipe is how flexible it is. You can stick with the classic cream cheese and pepper filling, or switch it up with your favorite flavors depending on what you’ve got in the fridge. Plus, they’re baked instead of fried, which makes them feel a little lighter while still being totally satisfying. If you’re someone who loves experimenting with fun finger foods, you might also enjoy checking out easy party appetizer ideas to add to your spread.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Flour tortillas – Large, soft tortillas work best for rolling and slicing.
• Cream cheese – The base of the filling; use full-fat for the creamiest texture.
• Cheddar cheese – Sharp cheddar adds that gooey, melty flavor we all love.
• Red bell pepper – Diced small for sweetness and color.
• Green bell pepper – Adds a fresh crunch and balances the sweetness of the red pepper.
• Red onion – A little bit goes a long way—finely diced for flavor and color.
• Pickled jalapeños – For that zesty kick! Adjust to taste depending on how spicy you like it.
• Garlic powder – Adds a subtle savory note.
• Paprika – Smoked paprika is great here, but regular paprika works too.
• Salt & pepper – Just enough to balance and bring out all the flavors.
• Sour cream (optional, for serving) – Perfect for dipping once the Antojitos are baked.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven.
   Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s hot and ready when your Antojitos are assembled.
2. Mix the filling.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, shredded cheddar, diced peppers, red onion, jalapeños, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and evenly mixed—the cream cheese should coat everything.
3. Spread and roll.
   Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spread a generous layer of the filling mixture evenly across the entire tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges. Roll the tortilla up tightly, just like you would a pinwheel sandwich.
4. Slice into rounds.
   Using a sharp knife, cut the rolled tortilla into 1–2 inch thick slices. These will bake into perfectly bite-sized pinwheels.
5. Arrange on a baking sheet.
   Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the tortilla rounds cut-side up, spacing them slightly apart so they crisp evenly.
6. Bake until golden.
   Slide the tray into the oven and bake for about 15–18 minutes, or until the tortillas are lightly golden and the cheese filling is bubbling.
7. Cool slightly before serving.
   Let the Antojitos rest for a few minutes after baking—they’ll hold together better. Serve warm with sour cream on the side for dipping.

Tips & Variations

• Cheese swap: Try Monterey Jack or mozzarella if you prefer a milder, gooier filling. A mix of cheeses also works beautifully.
• Spice level: Adjust the heat by using more or fewer jalapeños, or swap in fresh chili peppers if you want an extra kick.
• Veggie boost: Add corn, black beans, or spinach for a heartier filling. This also makes them a little more filling for parties.
• Make them meaty: Stir in cooked, crumbled bacon, shredded chicken, or ground beef for a protein-packed version.
• Dipping sauces: While sour cream is the classic dip, salsa, guacamole, or a chipotle mayo make fun alternatives.
• Make ahead: Assemble and roll the tortillas a few hours in advance, then slice and bake just before serving. Perfect for party prep!
• Storage tip: Leftovers (if you have any!) can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm and crisp again.

Serving Suggestions

• Party platter style: Arrange your baked Antojitos on a large serving tray with bowls of sour cream, salsa, and guacamole for dipping. It makes them look festive and snack-ready.
• Game day snack: Pair them with nachos, wings, or sliders for the ultimate game day spread. They’re bite-sized and easy to grab between plays.
• Family movie night: Serve Antojitos alongside popcorn and a big bowl of chips for a fun and filling movie snack lineup.
• Tapas-inspired night: Mix and match with other small plates like stuffed mushrooms, bruschetta, or quesadillas to create a mini feast.
• Balance it out: Since Antojitos are rich and cheesy, a crisp green salad or veggie sticks with dip make a refreshing side.
• Add a drink pairing: A cold beer, a fizzy soda, or even a margarita pairs beautifully with the cheesy, slightly spicy flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make Antojitos ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep and roll the tortillas a few hours before baking. Keep them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the fridge, then slice and bake when you’re ready to serve.

2. Can I freeze Antojitos?
Definitely, assemble, slice, and freeze them on a baking sheet until solid. Transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to 2 months. Bake straight from frozen at 375°F, adding 5–7 extra minutes to the cook time.

3. Do Antojitos have to be spicy?
Not at all! You can skip the jalapeños or replace them with mild peppers for flavor without the heat.

4. What’s the best dipping sauce for Antojitos?
Classic sour cream is always a hit, but salsa, guacamole, ranch, or chipotle mayo are all delicious choices.

5. Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?
Corn tortillas don’t roll up as easily and can crack, so flour tortillas are recommended for the best texture.

6. How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat Antojitos in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. This keeps them crisp and melty—avoid the microwave if possible, since it can make them soggy.

Final Thoughts

Antojitos are one of those recipes that prove the best snacks don’t have to be complicated. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a tray of cheesy, spicy, perfectly golden pinwheels that will disappear faster than you can set them on the table. Whether you’re hosting a party, planning a game night, or just craving something cozy for the family, these little bites always hit the spot.

The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility—add more spice, swap in your favorite cheeses, or keep it mild and veggie-packed. No matter how you make them, Antojitos have a way of turning any gathering into something special. And if you’re ready to expand your appetizer game even further, you might enjoy these crowd-pleasing finger foods to pair with your next batch.

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