Delicious Christmas Cranberry Pinwheels are such a fun and festive treat! These pinwheels are filled with tangy cranberry sauce and a touch of cream cheese, all wrapped up in soft, flaky dough that bakes to golden perfection. The bright red cranberries make these cookies really pop on any holiday dessert plate.
I love making these pinwheels because they’re easy to prepare but always impress friends and family. I usually make the dough ahead of time and then roll them up with the cranberry filling when I’m ready to bake. The best part is that the tart cranberries balance out the creamy filling perfectly, so every bite feels fresh and cozy.
These pinwheels are great to serve at holiday parties or as a sweet snack alongside a warm cup of tea. I’ve found that they disappear quickly whenever I bring them out, and they’re also nice to pack up as little gifts for neighbors or coworkers. It’s one of those simple holiday recipes that always adds a little extra cheer to the season!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream cheese: This is the base of the dough, making it creamy and soft. Full-fat cream cheese works best, but you can use Neufchatel for a lighter option.
Butter: Unsalted butter adds richness and helps the dough hold together. If you need dairy-free, try a plant-based spread with a similar texture.
Dried cranberries: These give the pinwheels their festive tartness. You can substitute with dried cherries or raisins if cranberries aren’t available.
Candied ginger or apricots (optional): These add extra sweetness and a holiday twist. If you don’t have these, try finely chopped orange zest for a fresh flavor.
Vanilla extract: Just a touch enhances the sweetness and balances the tart cranberries. Maple extract or almond extract can be interesting swaps.
How Can I Make Neat, Even Pinwheel Slices?
Slicing the chilled dough into perfect pinwheels can feel tricky. Here’s how to get clean, even rounds every time:
- Chill the dough log well—cold dough is firmer and less sticky.
- Use a sharp knife and make smooth, deliberate cuts to avoid squishing the roll.
- If the dough becomes soft while slicing, pop it back in the fridge for 10 minutes.
- Wipe the knife blade clean between slices to prevent ingredients from sticking.
Taking your time with these steps helps keep the pinwheels looking beautiful and keeps the layers intact for a great presentation.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls – I find them helpful for blending the ingredients smoothly.
- Electric hand mixer or stand mixer – makes beating the cream cheese and butter easier and quicker.
- Rubber spatula – great for scraping the bowl and mixing evenly.
- Plastic wrap – helps shape and chill the dough without mess.
- Sharp serrated knife – essential for slicing the pinwheels into neat rounds.
- Serving platter – to display your festive treats beautifully.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use chopped dried apricots or cherries instead of cranberries for a different fruity flavor.
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for extra holiday warmth.
- Mix in chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch and nuttiness.
- Replace vanilla with almond extract for a nutty aroma that pairs nicely with cranberries.
Delicious Christmas Cranberry Pinwheels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup finely chopped candied ginger or apricots (optional for added sweetness)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Fresh cranberries and rosemary sprigs for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You’ll need an extra hour to chill the dough, so plan for about 1 hour 15 minutes total before serving. No baking required, making it quick and easy for holiday celebrations!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base Dough:
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add powdered sugar, salt, and vanilla extract, then beat again until everything is well combined.
2. Add Flour and Mix in Fillings:
Gradually add the all-purpose flour into the cream cheese mixture. Stir until a soft dough forms. Then fold in the dried cranberries and chopped candied ginger or apricots if you’re using them, making sure they are spread evenly throughout the dough.
3. Form and Chill the Dough Roll:
Place a large piece of plastic wrap on your countertop. Transfer the dough onto the wrap and shape it into a rectangle about ½ inch thick using your hands or a rolling pin. Roll the dough tightly into a log shape, using the plastic wrap to help keep it firm. Chill the dough log in the fridge for at least 1 hour to firm up.
4. Slice and Serve:
Take the chilled dough log out of the fridge and unwrap it carefully. Using a sharp knife, slice the log into pinwheels about ¼ to ½ inch thick. Arrange the pinwheels on a serving plate, and if you like, garnish with fresh cranberries and rosemary sprigs to add a festive touch. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries Instead of Dried?
It’s best to use dried cranberries for this recipe, as frozen cranberries contain extra moisture which can make the dough too soft and difficult to roll. If you only have frozen, be sure to thaw and pat them dry thoroughly before mixing.
How Long Can I Store These Pinwheels?
Store the pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Because they don’t contain perishable toppings, they keep well chilled and stay fresh for several days.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare and roll the dough, then chill the log tightly wrapped in plastic wrap. You can slice and serve them later the same day or up to 2 days in advance for a quick holiday treat.
What’s the Best Way to Slice the Dough?
Use a sharp knife and slice the chilled dough log into pinwheels with smooth, firm cuts. If the dough gets sticky while slicing, pop it back in the fridge for 10 minutes to firm up before continuing.