Delicious Christmas Cranberry Pinwheels are a festive treat that’s perfect for the holiday season. These pinwheels are flaky, buttery, and filled with tangy cranberry goodness that adds a pop of color and flavor. The combination of sweet and tart cranberries with a hint of cinnamon makes every bite feel like a little celebration.
I love making these because they’re so easy to whip up and they always disappear quickly at parties. I like to make the dough ahead of time and add extra cranberries for a juicy surprise inside. It’s a fun recipe that feels fancy but is actually very simple—great for baking with kids or friends.
My favorite way to serve them is warm, right out of the oven, with a cup of hot cocoa or tea. They bring a cozy vibe to any gathering and make a beautiful addition to holiday cookie trays. These pinwheels remind me of sharing sweet moments with family, and I’m always happy to have them around during Christmas time.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This is the base, giving the pinwheels their flaky and buttery texture. You can find it frozen in most stores. If unavailable, crescent roll dough can be a quick substitute, but the texture will be less flaky.
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese provides smoothness and richness. For a lighter option, try using Neufchâtel cheese or mascarpone. Make sure it’s softened for easy spreading.
Dried Cranberries: They add a sweet and tart flavor with a bright holiday feel. If you prefer fresh, chop fresh cranberries and toss them with a little sugar to reduce tartness before adding. Raisins or chopped dried cherries work too.
Powdered Sugar & Vanilla: These sweeten and flavor the cream cheese mixture subtly. You can swap vanilla extract with almond or orange extract for a twist on flavor.
Ground Cinnamon & Orange Zest: These bring warmth and freshness that headlines the Christmas feel. If you don’t have fresh zest, a small dash of orange extract can replace it.
Chopped Nuts (optional): Pecans or walnuts add a nice crunch contrast. Omit if you have nut allergies or replace with seeds like pumpkin seeds for texture.
How Do I Make Perfect Pinwheels Without the Filling Oozing Out?
Rolling puff pastry with a moist filling can be tricky, but here’s how to keep it tight and neat:
- Chill the cream cheese: Make sure it’s soft but still cool to prevent it from becoming too runny.
- Spread evenly: Spread the cream cheese mixture in a thin, even layer, leaving about a 1/2-inch border free so the filling doesn’t escape while rolling.
- Don’t overfill: Too many cranberries or nuts can make rolling difficult. Spread them evenly, not piled high.
- Roll tightly but gently: Start from one edge and roll like a jelly roll. Use your fingers to tuck and gently compact the roll as you go.
- Chill before slicing: Place the roll in the fridge for 15-30 minutes before cutting. This firms it up and helps keep the shape while slicing.
- Use a sharp knife: This will make clean cuts, preventing squished or uneven pinwheels.
Following these steps helps you get neat swirls that bake up beautifully and hold their filling inside. It’s all about layering, chilling, and gentle handling!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet with parchment paper – I recommend it because it keeps the pinwheels from sticking and makes cleanup easy.
- Mixing bowl – perfect for blending the cream cheese mixture until smooth.
- Rolling pin – helps to gently flatten the puff pastry and remove creases, making rolling easier.
- Sharp knife or pizza cutter – cuts the rolled pastry into tidy, even slices without squishing them.
- Measuring spoons and cup – ensures your ingredients are just right for the perfect balance.
- Grater or zester – for adding fresh orange zest or other flavorings if you like a citrus twist.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap dried cranberries for chopped dried cherries or raisins for a different sweet-tart kick.
- Use chopped fresh strawberries or blueberries instead of dried cranberries—add a burst of fresh fruit flavor.
- Add a layer of Nutella or fruit preserves along with the cream cheese for extra sweetness and richness.
- Mix in a dash of ground ginger or nutmeg with the cinnamon for a festive spice blend.
Delicious Christmas Cranberry Pinwheels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pinwheels:
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ¼ cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- Zest of 1 orange (optional, for extra zest)
For Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh cranberries
- Pine sprigs
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 to 18 minutes to bake. Including time to thaw puff pastry if needed, plan for around 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for holiday gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare for Baking:
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 Mixture:
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and orange zest (if using). Mix until smooth and creamy.
3. Roll Out and Spread Puff Pastry:
On a lightly floured surface, gently roll out the puff pastry sheet to smooth out any creases. Then, spread the cream cheese mixture evenly across the pastry, leaving a small border around the edges so the filling stays inside when rolled.
4. Add Cranberries and Nuts:
Sprinkle dried cranberries evenly over the cream cheese layer. If you’d like some crunch, add the chopped pecans or walnuts evenly on top as well.
5. Roll and Slice:
Starting from one long edge, carefully and tightly roll the pastry into a log shape. Use a sharp knife to slice the rolled pastry into about ½-inch thick pinwheels.
6. Bake the Pinwheels:
Arrange the pinwheels cut side up on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes until puffed up and golden brown.
7. Cool and Serve:
Let the pinwheels cool slightly before moving them to a serving plate. For a festive touch, garnish with fresh cranberries and pine sprigs. Serve warm or at room temperature and enjoy these delightful holiday treats!
Can I Use Frozen Puff Pastry Directly?
It’s best to thaw frozen puff pastry in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight before using. This makes it easier to roll out and prevents cracking or tearing.
Can I Substitute the Cream Cheese?
Yes! You can use Neufchâtel cheese for a lighter option or mascarpone for a richer flavor. Just make sure the cheese is softened so it spreads easily.
How Should I Store Leftover Pinwheels?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to refresh the flakiness.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the pinwheels, then cover and refrigerate for a few hours before baking. You can also freeze the rolled log and slice & bake from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.