Delicious Christmas Cranberry Pinwheels are a festive treat that combines flaky, buttery pastry with a sweet and tangy cranberry filling. These little swirls are as pretty as they are tasty, making them perfect for holiday gatherings or as a cheerful snack during the busy season.
I love making these pinwheels because they’re so easy to prepare and always brighten up the kitchen with holiday vibes. The cranberries give just the right touch of tartness, balancing the richness of the pastry. They’re great for baking ahead and keeping on hand to share with friends and family.
My favorite way to serve them is warm, right out of the oven, with a cup of hot cocoa or tea nearby. They make a wonderful addition to any holiday brunch or dessert table, and I find they disappear faster than I expect! They really bring a little sparkle to winter celebrations.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Crescent Roll Dough or Puff Pastry: These give the pinwheels their flaky, buttery base. Puff pastry is flakier and more elegant, while crescent roll dough is softer and easier to work with. If you can’t find either, biscuit dough can work in a pinch but expect a different texture.
Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess and mild tang. Make sure it’s softened for easy spreading. You can substitute with Neufchâtel cheese for less fat or a dairy-free cream cheese for a vegan option.
Dried Cranberries: They provide lovely tartness and a chewy texture. If you want to switch it up, raisins or chopped dried cherries would work well.
Orange Zest: This is optional but adds a fresh, citrus brighten to the filling. If you don’t have an orange, lemon zest also brings nice brightness.
How Do You Roll and Slice the Pinwheels Without the Filling Falling Out?
Rolling and slicing can be tricky but these tips help keep everything neat:
- Press seams of crescent dough firmly to avoid gaps.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly, avoiding too thick a layer at the edges.
- Roll the dough tightly but gently to keep the filling inside without squeezing it out.
- Use a sharp knife to slice the log into even pinwheels; a serrated knife or dental floss works well.
- Chilling the rolled log for 10–15 minutes before slicing can help it hold shape better.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – I recommend lining it with parchment paper to keep things mess-free and make cleanup easier.
- Mixing bowl – Great for blending the cream cheese filling smoothly.
- Sharp knife or serrated bread knife – Essential for slicing the rolled dough into even pinwheels.
- Rolling pin (optional) – Helps to evenly roll out the dough if using puff pastry or thicker dough sheets.
- Measuring cups and teaspoons – For precise measurements of sugar, zest, and other ingredients.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap dried cranberries for chopped dried cherries or raisins to change the flavor slightly.
- Add chopped toasted pecans or walnuts for extra crunch and richness.
- Mix in a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg with the cream cheese for a warm touch.
- Use flavored cream cheese, such as cinnamon or chive, to give a different twist.
Delicious Christmas Cranberry Pinwheels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Dough and Filling:
- 1 package (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough or puff pastry
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 2 teaspoons orange zest (optional for brightness)
- Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 12–15 minutes to bake. Plus, a few minutes to cool before serving. So, plan for roughly 25–30 minutes total from start to finish—quick and easy for holiday baking!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep your pinwheels from sticking and for easy cleanup.
2. Make the Cream Cheese Filling:
In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. If you like, gently fold in the orange zest to add a fresh citrus flavor.
3. Roll Out the Dough:
On a clean surface, roll out the crescent roll dough or puff pastry. If you’re using crescent dough, press the seams firmly together to create one smooth sheet, so your filling stays inside.
4. Add the Filling and Cranberries:
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the dough. Then sprinkle the dried cranberries evenly across the cream cheese layer.
5. Roll and Slice the Pinwheels:
Starting from one long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Use a sharp knife to slice the log into ½-inch thick pinwheels. Place each pinwheel cut side down on the baking sheet, leaving some space between them so they can puff while baking.
6. Bake and Cool:
Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the oven and let the pinwheels cool slightly before serving to avoid burns.
7. Garnish and Serve:
If you want to add a festive touch, garnish your pinwheels with fresh rosemary sprigs. Serve warm or at room temperature and enjoy these delightful holiday treats!
Can I Use Frozen Puff Pastry or Dough for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or for a few hours until it’s fully thawed but still cold. This helps the dough roll out smoothly without tearing.
Can I Make Cranberry Pinwheels Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare and assemble the pinwheels, then cover and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add an extra minute or two to the baking time if they’re chilled.
How Should I Store Leftover Pinwheels?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to bring back their flakiness.
Can I Substitute Another Fruit for the Cranberries?
Yes, dried cherries, raisins, or even finely chopped dried apricots work great as alternatives, offering different flavors but similar chewiness.
