Delicious Christmas Cranberry Pinwheels are a festive treat that bring a burst of bright cranberry flavor wrapped inside soft, flaky dough. These little pinwheels are filled with tangy cranberries, a touch of sweetness, and a hint of spice that make them perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy winter snacks.
I love making these pinwheels because they’re super easy to prepare but always impress family and friends. I usually bake a batch on a chilly afternoon and the smell of warm cranberries and spices fills the kitchen, making everything feel extra cozy and merry. Plus, the colorful swirls look so pretty on a holiday platter—it’s like a little celebration in every bite!
My favorite way to serve these is alongside a cup of hot tea or coffee, especially during a Christmas movie night or after trimming the tree. They’re just the right balance of sweet and tart, and everyone seems to love how delightful and festive they are without being too heavy. These pinwheels always bring some extra cheer to our holiday table!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Crescent Roll Dough or Puff Pastry: This is the base that makes pinwheels flaky and tender. Puff pastry is crispier, while crescent dough is softer. If you prefer, you can use homemade pie dough for a sturdier texture.
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries give a tart bite, while dried cranberries add sweetness and chewiness. If fresh aren’t available, dried work well and won’t make the dough soggy.
Cream Cheese: Cream cheese adds richness and creaminess. For a lighter option, you can use mascarpone or ricotta, though flavor and texture will change slightly.
Orange Zest & Cinnamon: These add festive warmth and brightness. You can skip the zest or swap cinnamon for nutmeg or allspice depending on your taste.
How Can I Roll and Slice the Dough Without It Falling Apart?
Rolling and slicing pinwheels can be tricky if the dough is too soft or sticky. Here’s how to do it easily:
- Work on a lightly floured surface to keep dough from sticking.
- Roll the dough evenly into a rectangle and press seams together firmly so it holds when rolled.
- Spread the cream cheese filling gently — too much can make rolling messy.
- Use a sharp knife to slice the rolled log into pinwheels, cleaning the blade between slices to keep edges neat.
- If the dough softens too much, pop the rolled log in the fridge for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
These steps help create clean, pretty pinwheels that hold their shape well during baking.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – I recommend lining it with parchment paper for easy cleanup and even baking.
- Mixing bowls – for blending the cream cheese filling; I like using medium-sized bowls that are easy to handle.
- Rolling pin – helps flatten the dough evenly so it rolls smoothly without tearing.
- Sharp knife or bench scraper – makes clean slices of the rolled dough for neat pinwheels.
- Pastry brush (optional) – for brushing egg wash if you want a golden finish, though not necessary here.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap cranberries for chopped dried apricots or cherries for a different fruity taste.
- Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts inside the filling for extra crunch and flavor.
- Mix in a teaspoon of orange liqueur or Grand Marnier to boost the citrus flavor.
- Use cream cheese mixed with a dollop of lemon curd or a sprinkle of ginger for a seasonal twist.
Delicious Christmas Cranberry Pinwheels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 package (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough or puff pastry
- 1 cup fresh or dried cranberries (if fresh, roughly chopped)
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon orange zest (optional for extra festive flavor)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for drizzling)
- Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 12-15 minutes to bake. So, in just under 30 minutes, you can have these charming cranberry pinwheels ready to enjoy — quick and perfect for holiday snacks!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get Ready and Mix the Filling:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and orange zest until everything is smooth and well combined.
2. Prepare the Dough:
Unroll the crescent roll dough or puff pastry onto a clean surface. Press the seams gently to seal and make one big rectangle.
3. Add the Filling:
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the dough, leaving about a half-inch border all around. Then sprinkle cranberries evenly on top of the filling.
4. Roll and Slice:
Starting from one long side, roll the dough carefully into a tight log. Slice the rolled dough into pinwheels about 1/2-inch thick. Place them cut side down on your baking sheet, leaving about an inch between each piece.
5. Bake and Finish:
Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the pinwheels turn golden and puff up nicely. When they come out of the oven, you can drizzle a little honey or maple syrup over the warm pinwheels if you like. Let them cool just a bit before serving. For a festive touch, garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs.
Enjoy your festive, sweet, and slightly tart Christmas Cranberry Pinwheels warm or at room temperature with family and friends!
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries! Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding to the filling to avoid excess moisture that could make the dough soggy.
Can I Make These Pinwheels Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare and roll the pinwheels, then freeze them on the baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. When ready, bake straight from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
How Should I Store Leftover Cranberry Pinwheels?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for 4-5 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I Substitute Cream Cheese with Another Cheese?
You can use mascarpone or ricotta as alternatives, but the texture and flavor will be milder. For best results, stick to softened full-fat cheese for a creamy filling.
