Every time I prepare these delightful bites, my kitchen becomes the hub of pleasant aromas; the sweet and savory combination has every family member peeking into the kitchen, wondering what’s cooking. It’s indeed quite the sight, seeing the golden pastry rise and the cheese perfectly melting. The best part? These pinwheels are so simple to prepare that even if you’re at the beginner level in cooking, you’ll pull them off without a hitch!
My family adores these pinwheels, and each member has their own way of enjoying them. My kids are huge fans of powdered sugar dusting, while my husband can’t get enough of the honey drizzle. These pinwheels have an undeniable charm that makes them quite the conversation starter during gatherings, and before you know it, everyone wants to know your secret recipe!
So, if you’re ready to make something that’s tasty, pleasing to the eye, and impresses everyone at the table without breaking a sweat, give these Cranberry Brie Puff Pastry Pinwheels a shot. You won’t have to rummage through complicated ingredients—just a handful of things you might already have in your kitchen. Let’s dive into this delightful experience and create some new kitchen memories together.
How to Make Cranberry Brie Puff Pastry Pinwheels
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Ingredients:
- 1 sheet of thawed frozen puff pastry
- 3 tablespoons of melted butter, divided
- 4 ounces of Brie cheese, rind mostly removed and diced
- ¾ cup of chopped dried cranberries
- ½ cup of finely chopped walnuts
- 2 tablespoons of honey
- Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
Directions:
- Set your oven to a cozy 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Unroll the puff pastry on a clean work surface and gently coat it with about a tablespoon of the melted butter.
- Scatter the Brie, cranberries, and walnuts uniformly across the pastry surface, then drizzle with honey.
- Tightly roll the pastry starting from one of the longer edges to form a log.
- Brush the outer surface of the rolled pastry with the remaining melted butter.
- Cut the pastry log into 12 equal slices to create pinwheels.
- Place the pinwheels on the lined baking sheet and bake for 18-22 minutes, until the brie melts and the pastry reaches a lovely golden hue.
- After baking, let them cool for a couple of minutes before transferring to a serving plate. Dust with powdered sugar if desired and serve warm!
Storing Suggestion:
To store, allow the pinwheels to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. For best results, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes to revive the crispiness.
Cooking Tips:
If you want to elevate your pinwheels, try using a variety of nuts like pecans or almonds instead of walnuts. Also, feel free to adjust the amount of honey depending on how sweet you want them. Brushing the puff pastry with an egg wash before baking can also create a golden, glossier appearance.
Serving Suggestions:
These pinwheels pair beautifully with a fresh garden salad or a creamy tomato soup, making them a perfect component of a balanced meal. As for drinks, a glass of chilled white wine or a sparkling apple cider complements the savory and sweet flavors splendidly.
Ingredient Substitutions:
If you’re out of Brie, Camembert cheese is a good alternative, offering a similar creamy texture. Should cranberries be unavailable, dried figs or apricots bring a unique flavor to the dish. For a nut-free option, remove walnuts or enjoy with sunflower or pumpkin seeds.
Seasonal Variations:
In the fall, try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon to bring out warm, seasonal flavors. Springtime is ideal for experimenting with fresh rosemary within the cheese filling. In summer, fresh strawberries or blueberries can replace dried fruits for a refreshing burst.
FAQ
What type of puff pastry works best for this recipe?
Pre-made frozen puff pastry sheets are the most convenient and recommended for this recipe. Ensure they are thawed but still cool when used to maintain the pastry’s integrity and ensure a flaky outcome.
Can I prepare the pinwheels in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the roll, slice the pinwheels, and freeze them. When you’re ready to bake, place them directly in the oven from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. They’ll be fresh and delicious!
What is the best way to slice the pinwheels?
It’s helpful to use a sharp knife for cutting the pins into slices. To prevent crushing the pastry, gently saw back and forth rather than pressing straight down. A serrated knife can also help make clean cuts.
How can I prevent the cheese from leaking out?
Ensure your roll is tight enough to keep the cheese mostly inside the pastry. Overfilling can cause excessive leakage as the cheese melts. A slight cheese spill is natural and can be effortlessly scooped back on top of each pinwheel.
Are there any dips that can accompany these pinwheels?
Absolutely! A simple cranberry sauce or a honey mustard dip can enhance the flavors of the pinwheels. You might also enjoy them with a bit of fig jam, offering a delightful sweet-and-salty profile.
Can I make a vegan version of this recipe?
You can substitute the puff pastry with a vegan version and replace the Brie with plant-based cheeses available in stores. Use vegan butter and agave syrup or vegan honey alternatives to maintain the sweet elements.
Cranberry Brie Puff Pastry Pinwheels
Ingredients
- 1 sheet thawed frozen puff pastry
- 3 tablespoons melted butter divided
- 4 ounces Brie cheese rind mostly removed and diced
- 3/4 cup chopped dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup finely chopped walnuts
- 2 tablespoons honey
- Powdered sugar optional, for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375˚F and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place the puff pastry on a clean surface and use about a tablespoon of melted butter to brush it lightly.
- Evenly distribute the diced Brie, cranberries, and walnuts over the pastry, and drizzle honey on top.
- Begin rolling the pastry from the long end and make sure to roll it tightly.
- Brush the rolled pastry with the remaining melted butter and slice it into 12 pinwheels using a sharp knife.
- Arrange the pinwheels on the prepared baking sheet and bake for about 18 to 22 minutes, or until the cheese is melting and the pastry turns golden brown.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and allow to stand for a couple of minutes.
- Transfer to a serving plate, dust with powdered sugar if you like, and enjoy them warm!
