As the holiday season approaches, I find myself enchanted by the blend of sweet and savory flavors that can transform any gathering into a memorable feast. Imagine the sound of a light crunch as you take a bite into a warm pastry, revealing a gooey center of creamy brie beautifully complemented by tart cranberry sauce and nutty pecans. These Cranberry Brie Pecan Pinwheels are my go-to for effortless entertaining. They come together in just over 30 minutes and add a touch of festive flair to any appetizer spread.
There’s something truly special about sharing these delightful bites with friends and family, whether you’re hosting a lively holiday soirée or simply enjoying a cozy evening. With their versatility and deliciousness, you’ll not only impress your guests but also make the preparation a breeze. So, let’s dive into this easy recipe that’s sure to elevate your festivities and keep everyone coming back for more!
Why will you love these Cranberry Brie Pecan Pinwheels?
Effortless Preparation: This recipe is quick and simple, taking just over 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy holiday schedules.
Flavor Harmony: The sweet cranberry sauce, creamy brie, and crunchy pecans come together for a perfect flavor balance.
Versatile Appeal: Great for any gathering, these pinwheels can be served as appetizers or party snacks that suit both casual and festive occasions.
Customizable Options: Easily swap ingredients for personal taste—try different cheeses or nuts based on what you have on hand.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: With their eye-catching presentation and unique blend of tastes, these bites are sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Cranberry Brie Pecan Pinwheels Ingredients
For the Pinwheels
- Crescent Dough – Provides a flaky base that rolls up beautifully; you can substitute with puff pastry for extra richness.
- Brie Cheese – Offers a creamy filling that pairs perfectly with the other flavors; remember to keep the rind on for structure.
- Whole Berry Cranberry Sauce – Brings a sweet and tart kick to the pinwheels; feel free to swap it with your favorite jam for a twist.
- Chopped Roasted Pecans – Adds a delightful crunch that complements the creaminess of the brie; almonds or walnuts can be substituted for variation.
- Fresh Rosemary – Enhances aroma and flavor, providing a festive herbal touch; thyme or sage can work as excellent alternatives.
Optional Topping
- Egg Wash – Brush over the rolled pinwheels for a golden finish when baking; you can use milk or cream if you’re in a pinch.
This recipe for Cranberry Brie Pecan Pinwheels is perfect for any gathering, so gather your ingredients and let’s get rolling!
How to Make Cranberry Brie Pecan Pinwheels
-
Preheat your oven to 375°F and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This ensures your pinwheels bake evenly and release easily when done.
-
Roll out the crescent dough on a lightly floured surface, gently pressing the seams together. This creates one cohesive sheet, perfect for rolling your pinwheels.
-
Spread an even layer of whole berry cranberry sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. This will provide a sweet burst in every bite, complementing the creamy brie.
-
Layer the brie cheese on top of the cranberry sauce, ensuring to maintain the rind for structural support. This creamy cheese will melt beautifully as the pinwheels bake.
-
Sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly over the brie, adding that delectable crunch that enhances the texture and flavor of your pinwheels.
-
Roll the dough tightly from one end to the other, creating a log shape. Once rolled, make sure to seal the edges by pinching them together to keep all the goodness inside.
-
Slice the rolled dough into approximately 1-inch thick pinwheels and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each for proper expansion.
-
Brush the tops with an egg wash for a glossy, golden finish. If you don’t have an egg, milk or cream works just as well to achieve a delightful sheen.
-
Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the pinwheels are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t over-bake!
Optional: Garnish with extra chopped pecans and fresh rosemary for a festive touch before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Cranberry Brie Pecan Pinwheels?
These delightful pinwheels are just the beginning of an enchanting holiday spread.
-
Crispy Green Salad: A light, mixed salad with a tangy vinaigrette offers a crunchy contrast, balancing the rich flavors of the pinwheels. The refreshing greens will cleanse the palate beautifully.
-
Savory Cheese Board: Present an assortment of cheeses, crackers, and fruits for a delightful array of textures. Pairing the pinwheels with creamy cheeses and crisp apples will enhance your appetizer selection.
-
Herbed Quinoa: This nutty and aromatic side is not only healthy but also complements the savory notes of brie and cranberry. The lightness of quinoa makes it a perfect accompaniment to rich bites.
-
Sparkling Wine: A glass of bubbly adds a festive touch, while its crispness pairs wonderfully with the creamy and sweet flavors of the pinwheels.
-
Roasted Veggies: Beautifully caramelized seasonal vegetables bring both color and earthy flavors to your table. The slight sweetness from roasting will blend delightfully with the sweetness of cranberry.
-
Homemade Cranberry Sauce: A side of freshly made cranberry sauce elevates the flavor experience. The extra tartness will harmonize perfectly with the brie and pecans.
-
Mini Dessert Tartlets: Small fruit tartlets or chocolate bites serve as a sweet ending that contrasts beautifully with the savory pinwheels, leaving your guests delighted.
-
Mulled Apple Cider: A warm, aromatic drink adds comfort during cooler holiday evenings, enhancing the gathering atmosphere and pairing nicely with the pinwheels.
Choose any combination to create a memorable festive meal that everyone will love!
Expert Tips for Cranberry Brie Pecan Pinwheels
- Chill the Cheese: Keep the brie cold before slicing; this makes it much easier to handle and keeps your pinwheels neat.
- Avoid Soggy Bottoms: Ensure to spread cranberry sauce evenly but don’t overdo it; too much liquid can make the bottoms soggy.
- Roll Tightly: Roll the dough firmly but gently to keep the fillings intact without squeezing them out when baking.
- Watch the Bake Time: Cooking times can vary; keep a close eye on your pinwheels to prevent them from burning.
- Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to swap the nuts or use different cheeses for unique flavor variations of your cranberry brie pecan pinwheels.
How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Brie Pecan Pinwheels
Fridge: Store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze pinwheels in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Lay parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, defrost in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy.
Serving Tip: These pinwheels are best served warm for the ultimate flavor and texture experience.
Variations & Substitutions for Cranberry Brie Pecan Pinwheels
Feel free to explore these delightful twists to make the recipe truly your own!
-
Goat Cheese: Swap brie for tangy goat cheese for a bold flavor contrast that will excite your palate.
-
Sweet Heat: Use spicy raspberry jam instead of cranberry sauce for a sweet and spicy fusion that will jazz up your bites.
-
Nut Free: Substitute chopped pecans with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds, keeping the crunch without the allergens.
-
Berry Burst: Try using mixed berry preserves to brighten up the flavor profile and give a refreshing twist.
-
Savory Twist: Replace rosemary with fresh basil or chives for an herbal variation that adds a different aroma and flavor.
For an elegant extra, a sprinkling of crushed red pepper flakes can add warmth to those adventurous eaters seeking a bit of spice to their holiday treats. The beauty of these pinwheels is that they can be tailored to your taste, ensuring everyone at your gathering finds a flavor they adore!
Make Ahead Options
These Cranberry Brie Pecan Pinwheels are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the pinwheels up to 24 hours in advance by rolling them, slicing, and arranging them on a baking sheet, then covering tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerating. This method keeps them fresh while preventing any loss of flavor or texture. When you’re ready to serve, simply brush with an egg wash and bake as instructed for 12-15 minutes until golden brown. Enjoy the convenience of prepped pinwheels that are just as delicious and festive as if made on the spot!
Cranberry Brie Pecan Pinwheels Recipe FAQs
What kind of dough works best for these pinwheels?
I recommend using crescent dough for its light, flaky texture, but puff pastry can be used for an even richer flavor. Both options create a delightful base that perfectly complements the creamy brie and sweet cranberry.
How can I store leftover cranberry brie pecan pinwheels?
Simply place any leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. This will keep them fresh and maintain their delicious flavor. Just be sure to let them cool completely before sealing them up to prevent moisture build-up.
Can I freeze cranberry brie pecan pinwheels?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the uncooked pinwheels in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Why are my pinwheels browning too quickly?
If your pinwheels are browning before the cheese melts, it might be worth lowering the oven temperature to 350°F. This allows the pinwheels to cook evenly, ensuring a golden exterior while giving the cheese time to melt.
Can I make these pinwheels vegetarian-friendly?
Yes! The ingredients used are already vegetarian. Just ensure that the cheese and any other condiments or toppings you use are free of animal rennet if you want to maintain a strict vegetarian-friendly recipe.
Are there any common allergens in this recipe?
This recipe contains dairy (brie cheese), and nuts (pecans). If you’re preparing for guests with dietary restrictions, consider using nut-free substitutions like sunflower seeds and plant-based cheese alternatives to accommodate allergies.
Cranberry Brie Pecan Pinwheels: Effortless Holiday Delights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
- Roll out the crescent dough on a lightly floured surface, pressing the seams together.
- Spread an even layer of whole berry cranberry sauce over the dough, leaving a small border.
- Layer the brie cheese on top of the cranberry sauce, maintaining the rind.
- Sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly over the brie.
- Roll the dough tightly from one end to the other and seal the edges.
- Slice the rolled dough into approximately 1-inch thick pinwheels.
- Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.
- Brush the tops with an egg wash for a glossy finish.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.