Delicious Christmas Cranberry Pinwheels are festive, colorful little treats that bring a burst of holiday cheer to any table. These pinwheels combine the tangy zest of fresh cranberries with a sweet, soft dough rolled up into charming spirals that everyone loves to grab. They’re perfect for snacking, dessert, or even as a cute addition to your holiday brunch spread.
I love making these pinwheels because they’re simple but feel special. The mix of tart cranberries with just a touch of sweetness always surprises and delights guests. Whenever I serve them, people can’t help but ask for seconds. A little tip: chilling the dough before slicing really helps keep the perfect shape and makes the baking even easier.
My favorite way to enjoy these cranberry pinwheels is fresh out of the oven with a cup of hot cocoa or tea. They taste just like the holidays—a little cozy and a little bright. They’ve become a must-have in my holiday baking tradition, and I bet once you try them, you’ll want to add them to your celebration too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Crescent Roll Dough: Using refrigerated crescent roll dough makes this recipe quick and easy. You can also swap it for puff pastry for a flakier texture. Both work well and bring buttery goodness.
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries give a nice tart bite and pretty color. If you use dried cranberries, consider reducing the sugar slightly since dried ones are sweeter. I like fresh for that bright tang.
Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess and helps balance the tartness of cranberries. Low-fat cream cheese works, though full-fat yields the best flavor and texture.
Rosemary: Fresh rosemary provides a lovely herbal note perfect for the holidays. If unavailable, thyme is a good substitute or you can omit it for a simpler flavor.
How Do I Roll and Slice Pinwheels Without Squashing the Dough?
The rolling and slicing step can be tricky since the dough and filling are soft. Here’s my way to keep your pinwheels neat and intact:
- Roll the dough tightly but gently, trying not to squeeze out the filling.
- Pinch the edges and seam well to seal the roll and avoid filling oozing out during baking.
- Chill the rolled log in the fridge for 15-30 minutes before slicing. This firms it up and makes cutting cleaner.
- Use a very sharp knife and cut straight down in a single motion. Avoid twisting or pressing too hard.
- Place pinwheels cut side up on the baking sheet with space to puff and expand.
These tips helped me a lot to get nicely shaped pinwheels that bake evenly and look great on the holiday table!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone baking mat – I prefer it because it prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
- Sharp knife or pastry cutter – helps slice through the dough cleanly without squishing the layers.
- Small mixing bowl – perfect for blending the cream cheese mixture smoothly.
- Spatula or butter knife – easy for spreading the cream cheese evenly over the dough.
- Cooling rack – keeps the pinwheels from getting soggy if you need to cool them after baking.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap cranberries for chopped dried apricots or cherries for different fruity flavors and colors.
- Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture and nutty taste.
- Mix in a dash of cinnamon or ginger to the cream cheese for warm, spicy notes.
- Use goat cheese or ricotta instead of cream cheese for a different creamy flavor profile.
Delicious Christmas Cranberry Pinwheels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pinwheel Dough and Filling:
- 1 sheet refrigerated crescent roll dough (or puff pastry sheet)
- 1 cup fresh or dried cranberries (if fresh, roughly chopped)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup granulated sugar (optional, adjust for sweetness)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped (plus extra sprigs for garnish)
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for added sweetness and glaze)
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This festive recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 12–15 minutes to bake. Allow a few extra minutes to cool the pinwheels before serving. If you chill the rolled log before slicing, add 15-30 minutes for that step, which helps create neat, firm pinwheels.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Dough:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking. Unroll your crescent roll dough onto a flat surface and gently press the perforations to seal it into one solid sheet.
2. Make the Cream Cheese Filling:
In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the finely chopped fresh rosemary, which adds a subtle herbal flavor that pairs beautifully with the cranberries.
3. Assemble the Pinwheels:
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle the cranberries evenly on top. Starting at one long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Pinch the seam to seal it well to keep the filling inside while baking.
4. Slice and Bake:
Using a sharp knife, slice the rolled log into ½ to ¾ inch thick pinwheels. Place them cut side up on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart. If you like, brush the tops lightly with honey or maple syrup for a pretty glaze. Bake for 12–15 minutes or until golden and puffed.
5. Finish and Serve:
Remove the pinwheels from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar and garnish with more finely chopped rosemary or sprigs for a festive touch. Serve warm or at room temperature and enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries Instead of Fresh?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before using to avoid extra moisture that can make the dough soggy. Pat dry with paper towels for best results.
Can I Prepare These Pinwheels Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the rolled log, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Slice and bake fresh before serving for the best texture and flavor.
How Should I Store Leftover Pinwheels?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in the oven or microwave to enjoy them warm again.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Rosemary?
If you don’t have fresh rosemary, try thyme for a similarly herbal note, or omit it altogether for a simpler flavor. Dried rosemary can be used but use less as it’s more concentrated.