Cranberry and Cream Cheese Pinwheels

Hey friends! These Cranberry and Cream Cheese Pinwheels are a holiday favorite of mine that I keep coming back to year after year. These little bites are perfect for when you need something easy, festive, and just plain delicious. Imagine creamy, tangy cream cheese paired with tart cranberries, all rolled up in a flaky, buttery puff pastry. They’re as irresistible as they sound! Plus, they’re great for making ahead and always a hit at parties.

If you’re looking for the perfect appetizer that feels fancy but is a breeze to make, you’re going to love these pinwheels. Let’s roll (literally) into this easy and flavorful recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Simple: Just a few ingredients and you’ll have these beauties baked up in no time!
Festive Flavors: Tangy cranberry and creamy cheese wrapped in puff pastry—it really screams holiday, doesn’t it?
Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep these pinwheels the night before and just pop them in the oven before your guests arrive.
Customizable: Add nuts, dried fruits, or even a drizzle of honey to make these your own.

Ingredients Breakdown

Essentials

Puff Pastry – Grab a package of store-bought puff pastry from the freezer aisle for ease. Just be sure to thaw it according to the package instructions before using.
Cream Cheese – Softened cream cheese will be easier to spread. Leave it out for about 30 minutes before you start.
Dried Cranberries – These bring a lovely tang and a pop of color. You can also substitute with dried cherries or apricots if you’re feeling creative.
Green Onions – Adds a mild oniony flavor and a crunchy texture to balance out the richness of the cheese.

Pro Tips

If you want an extra punch of flavor, use a flavored cream cheese like herb or garlic. It complements the sweetness of the cranberries beautifully.
To make it a bit fancier, sprinkle finely chopped walnuts or pecans over your cream cheese before rolling up the pinwheels.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep Your Puff Pastry

Unfold the thawed puff pastry onto a lightly floured surface. Using a rolling pin, gently roll it out to smooth any creases. We want the pastry to be even for that perfect bake.

Step 2: Spread the Cream Cheese

Spread the softened cream cheese evenly over the puff pastry, leaving about half an inch around the edges. You want a nice layer but not too thick—just enough to get that creamy goodness in every bite.

Step 3: Add Cranberries and Green Onions

Gently scatter the dried cranberries and chopped green onions over the cream cheese. Be sure to get an even spread so every bite will get a little bit of each.

Step 4: Roll It Up

Starting at one edge of the puff pastry, carefully roll it up into a tight log. Take your time here so it’s nice and snug—you don’t want the filling spilling out.

Step 5: Slice and Bake

Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 1/2-inch pinwheels. Place the pinwheels on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes or until the puff pastry is golden and flaky. Let them cool slightly before serving.

Chef’s Tips and Tricks

If you have trouble with the puff pastry getting too warm and sticky while rolling, pop it in the fridge for about 10 minutes before slicing. It’ll firm up and make cutting easier.
For even prettier pinwheels, brush the tops with a bit of egg wash before baking for that golden finish.
Don’t overcrowd the pan! These need space to puff up as they bake.

Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions

Variations

Add Some Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts are a delightful addition if you love a bit of crunch!
Go Sweet: Try swapping the green onions for a sprinkle of brown sugar and some cinnamon for a sweet version of these pinwheels.
Herb It Up: Mix some fresh thyme or rosemary into the cream cheese for a more earthy, savory take.

Serving Ideas

These pinwheels pair beautifully with a glass of crisp white wine for a light appetizer at parties.
If you’re serving them as a brunch option, I love to add a simple mixed greens salad on the side with a citrus vinaigrette.

FAQs

Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the pinwheels, wrap them up in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You can even freeze them before baking, then pop them in the oven straight from the freezer—just add a few more minutes to the baking time.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the fridge for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes to crisp them back up.

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Dried cranberries are recommended for this recipe because they have a concentrated sweetness. If you use fresh, they might release too much liquid while baking, causing the pinwheels to get soggy. However, if you really want to use fresh, I recommend roasting them lightly with sugar to reduce moisture before using.

Printable Recipe

Prep time: 15 minutes | Cook time: 15 minutes | Servings: 24 pinwheels

Ingredients

1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/3 cup dried cranberries
2 green onions, chopped

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry to smooth any creases and make it even.
Spread the softened cream cheese evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a small border around the edges.
Sprinkle the dried cranberries and chopped green onions on top evenly.
Carefully roll up the puff pastry into a tight log, then slice into 1/2-inch pinwheels.
Place the pinwheels onto the parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, until golden and flaky. Let cool slightly before serving.

There you have it! Cranberry and Cream Cheese Pinwheels that are as easy as they are impressive. Trust me, these are going to be the star of your next gathering, whether it’s a casual brunch or a holiday party. If you give these a try, be sure to come back and leave a comment below or share them on social media with #TheKitchensAid. I can’t wait to see how yours turn out!

Cranberry and Cream Cheese Pinwheels – Perfect for Holiday Appetizers