Brie and cranberry pinwheels are a tasty treat perfect for any gathering! Soft brie cheese pairs beautifully with sweet-tangy cranberry sauce, all wrapped in a soft tortilla.
These pinwheels are a hit at parties, and honestly, they disappear fast! I make sure to save a few for myself because they are just too yummy to share. 🧀✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This is the star of the show! It becomes wonderfully flaky and golden when baked. If you can’t find puff pastry, phyllo dough can work as a substitute, though it will be less rich.
Brie Cheese: Choose a nice creamy brie for a smooth texture. If you want, Camembert can be an excellent substitute, offering a similar taste. Be sure to remove the rind for better melting.
Cranberry Sauce: You can use either whole cranberry sauce or jellied, depending on your texture preference. If you’re feeling adventurous, try homemade cranberry sauce for a fresher taste! For a tart twist, a layer of goat cheese could be a great variation.
Fresh Rosemary: This adds a nice aromatic touch. If you don’t have rosemary, fresh thyme or sage can also complement the flavors well. Dried herbs could work in a pinch, but fresh is best!
How Do You Roll and Slice Puff Pastry for Pinwheels?
Rolling and slicing puff pastry takes a little care to keep those pinwheels pretty! Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with lightly floured surfaces to prevent sticking.
- Roll the pastry gently to about 12×10 inches—this helps it bake evenly.
- When rolling, start from a long edge to keep the pinwheels tight and uniform.
- Use a sharp knife for cutting. It’s best to slice gently instead of sawing through the pastry. This helps to keep layers intact and puff nicely.
With these tips, your pinwheels will look and taste fantastic! Enjoy making and sharing them!
Brie And Cranberry Pinwheels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 4 ounces brie cheese, rind removed and thinly sliced
- 1/3 cup cranberry sauce (whole cranberry or jellied)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and approximately 15-20 minutes for baking, making it a quick and delightful appetizer to whip up in about 25-30 minutes total!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This way, it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to make cleanup easier.
2. Roll Out the Puff Pastry:
On a lightly floured surface, carefully roll out the puff pastry into a rectangle about 12×10 inches. This gives you the perfect base to make your pinwheels.
3. Add the Cranberry Sauce:
Spread the cranberry sauce evenly over the puff pastry. Be sure to leave a small border around the edges, so the filling doesn’t ooze out while baking!
4. Lay on the Brie:
Now, get your brie cheese and arrange the thin slices evenly over the cranberry sauce. This creamy goodness is going to melt beautifully!
5. Season the Filling:
If you’re using fresh rosemary, sprinkle it on top along with the black pepper. This adds a nice little kick and aroma to your pinwheels.
6. Roll It Up:
Starting from one of the longer edges, carefully roll the puff pastry into a tight log. Try to keep it even as you roll, so each pinwheel is consistent in size.
7. Slice the Pinwheels:
Using a sharp knife, slice the rolled log into pinwheels about 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick. This makes for nice bite-sized pieces!
8. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Place the pinwheels on your prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave some space between them—about an inch apart.
9. Brush with Egg Wash:
Take your beaten egg and brush the tops of the pinwheels lightly. This will give them that lovely golden color when baked!
10. Bake Until Golden:
Pop the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown. The aroma will be divine!
11. Cool and Serve:
Once they’re baked, remove the pinwheels from the oven and let them cool slightly. You can garnish with extra rosemary if you’d like before serving.
Enjoy these warm, flaky pinwheels with the rich creaminess of brie and the bright tartness of cranberry—a perfect sweet and savory appetizer!
Can I Use Store-Bought Cranberry Sauce?
Absolutely! Store-bought cranberry sauce works perfectly for this recipe, whether you opt for whole berry or jellied. Just spread it evenly over the pastry and enjoy the convenience!
What Can I Substitute for Brie Cheese?
If you can’t find brie, try using Camembert, which has a similar creamy texture and flavor. For a lighter option, goat cheese can also be a delicious alternative.
How Do I Store Leftover Pinwheels?
Store any leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness.
Can I Make These Pinwheels Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the pinwheels up to the rolling stage, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a day. When ready to bake, simply slice and follow the baking instructions!