Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels Recipe
These Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels are a festive and delightful appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions. Flaky puff pastry is wrapped around a creamy mixture of cream cheese, sweetened cranberries, and fresh chives, then baked to golden perfection. Topped with a light egg wash and optional Parmesan cheese, these pinwheels offer a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors with a tender, flaky texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
- Total Time: 30-33 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 16 pinwheels 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Filling
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp honey (or maple syrup)
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup dried cranberries (or fresh cranberries, finely chopped & sweetened)
- 2 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped
Pastry
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
Topping
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 2 tbsp Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, honey, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the dried cranberries and chopped chives to incorporate evenly throughout the mixture.
- Assemble the pinwheels: Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the puff pastry sheet to smooth it. Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over the entire surface of the pastry. Starting from one edge, tightly roll the pastry into a log shape. Using a sharp knife, slice the log into approximately 16 equal rounds, about ½ inch thick each.
- Prepare for baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Arrange the pinwheel slices cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each for expansion. Beat the egg and lightly brush it over the tops of the pinwheels, then sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if using, for an added savory touch and golden finish.
- Bake and serve: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the pinwheels for 15 to 18 minutes, or until they are golden brown and puffed up. Remove from the oven and optionally garnish with additional fresh chives. Serve warm or at room temperature to enjoy their full flavor and flaky texture.
Notes
- For a sweeter twist, add a little extra honey or maple syrup to the cream cheese mixture.
- Fresh cranberries can be used but should be finely chopped and sweetened to balance their tartness.
- If puff pastry is frozen, make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before use to prevent cracking.
- Parmesan cheese topping is optional but adds a nice savory contrast and enhances browning.
- Pinwheels can be prepared in advance and baked just before serving.
- Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days and can be reheated in a low oven to maintain crispness.
Keywords: cranberry cream cheese pinwheels, holiday appetizer, puff pastry appetizers, festive finger food, cream cheese snacks
