Cranberry Brie Pinwheels

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Cranberry Brie Pinwheels – Buttery, Flaky & Festively Delicious

These Cranberry Brie Pinwheels are the ultimate holiday appetizer—flaky puff pastry wrapped around creamy brie, tangy cranberry sauce, crunchy pecans, and fresh thyme. They’re quick to make, stunning to serve, and guaranteed to disappear fast.

Introduction: A Holiday Favorite in Every Bite

When it comes to holiday entertaining, we all want recipes that are simple to make but look and taste like a million bucks. Enter these Cranberry Brie Pinwheels—a delightful fusion of buttery puff pastry, melty brie cheese, tart cranberry sauce, and aromatic thyme. They’re the perfect balance of sweet, savory, creamy, and crisp.

Whether you’re hosting a Thanksgiving gathering, a Christmas cocktail party, or a cozy winter brunch, these pinwheels are a guaranteed hit. They’re elegant enough for a special occasion, yet easy enough for a weeknight treat.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at what makes these pinwheels so irresistible:

Core Ingredients:

  • Puff pastry (1 sheet, thawed)
    Buttery, flaky, and the perfect vehicle for all the delicious fillings. Be sure to thaw it according to package instructions.
  • Cranberry sauce (½ cup)
    Adds a sweet-tart burst of flavor. Use homemade or store-bought—whole berry or smooth, depending on your preference.
  • Brie cheese (4 oz, rind removed and sliced)
    Rich, creamy, and slightly earthy—brie melts beautifully and pairs perfectly with cranberry.
  • Chopped pecans (¼ cup)
    Add crunch and a nutty contrast to the soft cheese and pastry.
  • Fresh thyme leaves (1 tbsp)
    Brings a subtle herbal note that elevates the flavor profile.
  • Egg (1, beaten)
    Used for an egg wash to give the pinwheels a golden, glossy finish.

Optional: Add a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of sea salt before baking for an extra flavor boost.

Equipment Needed

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Rolling pin
  • Sharp knife or serrated knife
  • Pastry brush
  • Oven

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even browning.

Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry

On a lightly floured surface, gently roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet to smooth any creases and slightly enlarge the surface area.

Tip: Don’t over-roll—just enough to even it out and make it easier to fill and roll.

Step 3: Add the Fillings

Spread ½ cup cranberry sauce evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a ½-inch border around the edges.

Layer sliced brie evenly over the cranberry sauce.

Sprinkle with:

  • ¼ cup chopped pecans
  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves

Tip: Make sure the toppings are evenly distributed so every bite is balanced.

Step 4: Roll It Up

Starting from the long edge, carefully roll the puff pastry into a tight log, just like you would with cinnamon rolls.

Once rolled, gently press the seam to seal.

Tip: For cleaner slices, chill the log in the fridge for 10–15 minutes before cutting.

Step 5: Slice into Pinwheels

Using a sharp or serrated knife, slice the log into ½-inch thick rounds.

Place each pinwheel cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.

Step 6: Egg Wash

Brush the tops of each pinwheel with beaten egg to help them bake up golden and glossy.

Step 7: Bake

Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until:

  • The pastry is puffed and golden brown
  • The cheese is melted and bubbly
  • The edges are lightly crisped

Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Perfect for:

  • Holiday appetizers
  • Cocktail parties
  • Brunch spreads
  • Cheese boards

Pair with:

  • A glass of sparkling wine or rosé
  • A winter salad with arugula and pomegranate
  • A bowl of butternut squash soup

Presentation Tip: Serve on a wooden board with sprigs of thyme and a small bowl of extra cranberry sauce for dipping.

Variations to Try

Want to make them your own? Try these delicious twists:

Honey Walnut

Swap pecans for walnuts and drizzle honey over the filling before rolling.

Apple Brie

Use thinly sliced apples and a touch of cinnamon instead of cranberry sauce.

Savory Herb

Skip the cranberry and use caramelized onions, brie, and rosemary for a savory version.

Vegetarian-Friendly

Ensure your puff pastry is made without animal fats and use a plant-based brie alternative.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Make-Ahead: Assemble the log and refrigerate up to 24 hours before slicing and baking.
  • Refrigerate: Store baked pinwheels in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat: Warm in a 300°F oven for 5–7 minutes to restore crispness.
  • Freeze: Freeze unbaked pinwheels on a tray, then transfer to a bag. Bake from frozen, adding 5 minutes to the cook time.

Tip: Don’t microwave to reheat—they’ll lose their crispness.

Nutrition Notes (Per Serving, ~1 of 8)

  • Calories: ~220
  • Protein: ~5g
  • Carbohydrates: ~18g
  • Fat: ~15g
  • Sugar: ~5g
  • Sodium: ~180mg
  • Fiber: ~1g

These pinwheels are:

  • Buttery and flaky
  • Sweet and savory
  • Perfectly portioned
  • Great for sharing

Final Thoughts

These Cranberry Brie Pinwheels are more than just a pretty appetizer—they’re a celebration of flavor, texture, and the joy of simple, elegant entertaining. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday party or just treating yourself to something special, they’re sure to impress.

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