Delicious Christmas Cranberry Pinwheels are a festive treat that’s both sweet and tangy with a little bit of flaky goodness in every bite. These pinwheels are bursting with fresh cranberries, a touch of cream cheese, and a hint of cinnamon, all wrapped up in buttery puff pastry. They look as cheerful as they taste, perfect for holiday gatherings and festive parties.
I love making these cranberry pinwheels because they’re so easy to prepare but always wow my family and friends. The smell of cinnamon and baking pastry fills the kitchen and gets everyone in the Christmas spirit. My little secret is to chill the dough just right, so it rolls and slices perfectly without losing its shape.
These pinwheels are great served warm right out of the oven with a cup of hot cocoa or tea. They’re perfect as a snack or even a quick breakfast on a busy holiday morning. I always end up making extra because they’re impossible to resist once people start nibbling on them!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This flaky dough is the star for texture. For a shortcut, store-bought sheets work great. If you prefer gluten-free, look for gluten-free puff pastry in stores or use a sturdy pie crust instead.
Cream Cheese: It adds creaminess and mild tang. You can use Neufchâtel for a lighter option or a dairy-free spread to keep it vegan.
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries give a tart burst of flavor. If fresh aren’t available, dried cranberries are a good swap—just soak them in warm water or juice for a few minutes to plump them.
Green Onions or Herbs: They add fresh color and a subtle savory note that balances sweetness. If you don’t like green onions, fresh parsley or chives work well.
Honey or Maple Syrup: These natural sweeteners complement the tart cranberries nicely. Feel free to use agave syrup or a light drizzle of brown sugar if you prefer.
How Can I Roll and Slice the Pinwheels Without Squishing the Dough?
Rolling and slicing puff pastry can be tricky since it’s delicate. Here’s a simple way to keep your pinwheels neat and pretty:
- After spreading the filling, roll the dough tightly but gently from one long edge. Try to keep even pressure so it forms a smooth log.
- Wrap the rolled log in plastic wrap and chill it for at least 20 minutes. Cold dough is firmer and easier to slice.
- Use a very sharp knife to cut 1/2-inch thick slices. Saw gently instead of pressing down hard to avoid squashing the layers.
Following these steps helps keep your pinwheels looking beautiful with nice spiral shapes after baking.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet with parchment paper – I like it because it helps the pinwheels bake evenly without sticking.
- Rolling pin – makes it easy to smooth out and shape the puff pastry.
- Sharp knife or bench scraper – ensures clean, even slices without squishing the dough.
- Mixing bowls and spoons – for blending the cream cheese and spreading the filling smoothly.
- Measuring cups and spoons – helpful for precise ingredients, especially when adding herbs and sweeteners.
- Plastic wrap – to chill the rolled dough for easy slicing and perfect shapes.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use raspberry or blueberry jam instead of fresh cranberries for a different fruity kick.
- Add chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for crunch and extra flavor.
- Mix in a teaspoon of orange zest or a splash of orange liqueur to brighten the filling.
- Swap green onions with chopped fresh thyme or rosemary for a more herbal aroma.
Delicious Christmas Cranberry Pinwheels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh cranberries, roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions or fresh herbs (like chives or parsley)
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus 20 to 30 minutes chilling time for the rolled dough. Baking time is around 15 to 18 minutes, making the total time about 45 to 55 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping and Mixing the Filling:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, mix softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until smooth.
2. Assembling the Pinwheels:
Lightly flour your work surface and, if needed, roll out the puff pastry sheet gently to smooth it. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the sheet. Sprinkle chopped cranberries and green onions (or herbs) over the cream cheese. Drizzle honey or maple syrup on top for a touch of sweetness.
3. Rolling, Chilling, and Baking:
Roll the puff pastry tightly into a log, starting from one long edge. Wrap it in plastic wrap and chill for 20-30 minutes to firm up. When chilled, slice into ½-inch thick pieces with a sharp knife. Place the pinwheels about 1 inch apart on the baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg for a shiny finish. Bake for 15-18 minutes until golden and puffed. Let them cool slightly before serving warm or at room temperature.
Can I Use Frozen Puff Pastry?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight before using to ensure it rolls and bakes evenly without cracking.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Cranberries?
If fresh cranberries aren’t available, dried cranberries soaked briefly in warm water or juice work well. You can also use other tart fruits like raspberries or chopped cherries.
How Should I Store Leftover Pinwheels?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a warm oven (about 300°F) for 5-7 minutes to keep the pastry crisp.
Can I Prepare These Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can roll the log, wrap it well, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before slicing and baking. This makes them super convenient for holiday entertaining.
