Name: Savory Cranberry Brie Pinwheels: The Best Festive Treats
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 8 ounces Brie Cheese (softened); 1 cup Whole-Berry Cranberry Sauce (homemade or store-bought); 1/2 cup Chopped Pecans (or walnuts as a substitute); 17.3 ounces Frozen Puff Pastry (fully thawed); 1 large Egg (for egg wash); 1 tablespoon Water (mix with egg for egg wash)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

As the leaves turn and the air becomes crisp, the anticipation of Thanksgiving gatherings fills my heart with joy. There’s something undeniably heartwarming about sharing delicious food with loved ones, and these Savory Cranberry Brie Pinwheels have become my go-to appetizer for the season. Imagine golden-brown pastries bursting with creamy Brie, tangy cranberry, and a satisfying crunch from pecans—all wrapped up in a delightful finger food that’s as easy to make as it is to devour.

When my friends come over, these little bites always steal the show, making them a crowd-pleaser every time. Not only do they evoke a sense of nostalgia with their classic holiday flavors, but they also offer endless customization options. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or experiment with a twist, these pinwheels promise to elevate your Thanksgiving feast and leave your guests wanting more. Let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into this delectable creation!

Why Are Savory Cranberry Brie Pinwheels Perfect?

Deliciously Rich Flavor: The creamy Brie paired with tangy cranberry sauce creates a taste sensation that’s utterly irresistible.

Effortlessly Simple: With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing appetizer that comes together in no time.

Customizable Delight: Feel free to swap out pecans for walnuts or add favorite herbs to make them your own.

A Visual Treat: Golden-brown pinwheels are as beautiful as they are tasty, making them a delightful addition to any festive table.

No Stress Make-Ahead Option: Prepare these the day before your gathering to save time and reduce kitchen chaos. Try your hand at these Savory Cranberry Turkey delights for another scrumptious take on Thanksgiving appetizers!

Savory Cranberry Brie Pinwheels Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these tasty treats!

For the Filling

Brie Cheese – The star of the show; ensure it’s softened for easy mixing.
Whole-Berry Cranberry Sauce – Adds tartness and sweetness; you can use homemade or store-bought for convenience.
Chopped Pecans – Offers a satisfying crunch; walnuts can be a great substitute if desired.

For the Pastry

Frozen Puff Pastry (17.3 ounces) – This creates the flaky exterior; make sure it’s fully thawed before use.
Large Egg – Acts as a binder and gives a beautiful golden color to the baked pinwheels.
Water – Mix with the egg for the egg wash to achieve a shiny finish.

These Savory Cranberry Brie Pinwheels are sure to be a hit at your holiday gatherings!

How to Make Savory Cranberry Brie Pinwheels

Preheat Oven: Start by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures a perfectly baked, golden-brown finish for your pinwheels.
Prepare Brie: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened Brie cheese until it’s smooth and creamy, which should take about 5 minutes. A well-mixed base makes the filling irresistible!
Roll Out Puff Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, unfold the thawed puff pastry. If it’s not rolled out enough, gently roll it with a rolling pin to the desired thickness.
Spread Fillings: Evenly layer half of the creamy Brie cheese and half of the whole-berry cranberry sauce across the pastry, making sure to leave about a half-inch border all around.
Roll and Slice: Carefully roll the pastry jelly-roll style, starting from a short edge. Once rolled, cut it into 12 equal slices for perfectly portioned pinwheels.
Add Finishing Touches: Brush the egg wash over each pinwheel, then sprinkle chopped pecans on top. Place your pinwheels on a parchment-lined baking sheet to avoid sticking.
Bake: Pop the pinwheels into the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. They should emerge golden brown and flaky—heavenly to the eyes and the taste buds!

Optional: Serve warm with a drizzle of honey for an extra touch of sweetness.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Savory Cranberry Brie Pinwheels are a game-changer for meal prep enthusiasts, allowing you to enjoy your holiday gatherings with ease! You can assemble the pinwheels up to 24 hours in advance; just cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate to keep everything fresh. To ensure they maintain their delightful flaky texture, avoid brushing the egg wash until you’re ready to bake. When it’s time to serve, simply brush the egg wash over your chilled pinwheels, sprinkle the pecans, and pop them in the oven at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes. This method not only saves time but guarantees your pinwheels are just as delicious as if freshly made!

Savory Cranberry Brie Pinwheels Variations & Substitutions

Embrace the joy of creativity in the kitchen with your own delightful twists on these pinwheels!

Nut-Free: Omit the pecans entirely or replace them with sunflower seeds for a satisfying crunch without the nuts.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free puff pastry to achieve that flaky goodness without gluten worries.
Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary with the Brie for a fragrant, savory kick.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a fun heat that complements the sweet cranberry.
Sweet Twist: Swap out the cranberry sauce for apple butter for a sweeter, fruit-forward flavor that’s equally delightful.
Vegan Version: Use dairy-free cream cheese and a vegan pastry alternative to keep these treats plant-based yet delicious.
Savory & Sweet Fusion: Incorporate caramelized onions into the filling for an extra layer of flavor that beautifully balances the sweetness of the cranberries.
Cheesy Upgrade: Experiment with a blend of cheeses like goat cheese or cheddar alongside the Brie for a richer, more complex taste.

Let these variations inspire your culinary creativity as you impress your family and friends with exquisite homemade appetizers!

Expert Tips for Savory Cranberry Brie Pinwheels

Soften the Brie: Make sure your Brie cheese is softened for easy mixing, ensuring a creamy filling that spreads effortlessly.
Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on your pinwheels towards the end of the baking time; overbaking may lead to an unpleasant, burnt flavor.
Customize Wisely: While pecans are a classic choice, feel free to substitute walnuts, but remember to adjust the quantities to keep the texture balanced.
Egg Wash Benefits: Apply the egg wash evenly to achieve a beautifully golden-brown finish, enhancing the visual appeal of these savory cranberry Brie pinwheels.
Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, but for best taste, enjoy them fresh!

Storage Tips for Savory Cranberry Brie Pinwheels

Fridge: Store leftover Savory Cranberry Brie Pinwheels in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their flaky texture and delicious flavor.
Freezer: To freeze, lay pinwheels in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy frozen pinwheels, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through and crispy.
Make-Ahead: You can prepare the pinwheels a day in advance, store them unbaked in the fridge, and bake just before serving for a fresh-tasting appetizer.

What to Serve with Savory Cranberry Brie Pinwheels?

As you prepare these delightful pinwheels, consider pairing them with complementary dishes that will round out your festive table.

Crispy Green Salad: Freshness from mixed greens, tossed with a light vinaigrette, balances the richness of the pinwheels perfectly.
Spiced Apple Cider: This warm, spiced beverage adds a cozy, autumnal touch that warms the heart and enhances the seasonal flavors.
Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses, like tangy goat cheese and sharp cheddar, creates a lovely contrast of flavors while inviting guests to indulge further.
Herbed Cream Cheese Dip: A smooth, creamy dip with herbs elevates the appetizer experience and provides a fresh dip for the pinwheels if desired.
Roasted Vegetables: Serve a medley of roasted seasonal veggies, which not only adds vibrant colors but also provides a healthy, earthy balance to your spread.
Miniature Fruit Tarts: For dessert, these sweet bites contrast the savory delights, bringing a touch of sweetness to end the meal on a delightful note.
Sparkling Water with Lime: This refreshing drink cleanses the palate and adds a touch of elegance to your gathering, allowing the flavors of the pinwheels to shine.

A thoughtful selection enhances your pinwheel experience, transforming your Thanksgiving gathering into an unforgettable feast!

Savory Cranberry Brie Pinwheels Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best Brie cheese?
Absolutely! When choosing Brie cheese, look for one that has a soft, creamy texture and a pleasant aroma. The surface should be slightly firm but yielding to gentle pressure. Avoid any wheels with dark spots or a strong ammonia smell, as they may indicate over-ripeness. Ideally, a Brie that has a pale ivory color and a fresh, mild fragrance will yield the best results for your Savory Cranberry Brie Pinwheels.

What is the best way to store leftover pinwheels?
Very! For the best texture and flavor, store any leftover Savory Cranberry Brie Pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps keep them fresh and flaky. Make sure they cool completely before sealing the container to prevent condensation, which can make them soggy.

Can I freeze the pinwheels?
Absolutely! To freeze your Savory Cranberry Brie Pinwheels, lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until solid—this usually takes about 1-2 hours. After they are frozen, transfer the pinwheels to a freezer-safe zip-top bag or an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, bake them straight from the freezer at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and crispy.

What if my pinwheels don’t turn out crispy?
It happens to the best of us! If your Savory Cranberry Brie Pinwheels are not as crispy as you’d hoped, it may be due to excess moisture in the filling or not enough bake time. To fix this, consider draining any liquid from your cranberry sauce before spreading it on the pastry. Also, make sure to bake them until they reach a deep golden brown for that desired flakiness. If all else fails, a quick reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes can help recapture some crispness.

Are there any dietary considerations I should know about?
Absolutely! These Savory Cranberry Brie Pinwheels are vegetarian-friendly, making them a great choice for meatless gatherings. However, they do contain dairy, so be cautious if you’re serving guests with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance. For a dairy-free alternative, you could try using a plant-based cream cheese in place of Brie—just make sure it’s compatible with baking to maintain the creamy filling texture!

Can I make the pinwheels ahead of time?
Very! You can prepare the Savory Cranberry Brie Pinwheels a day in advance. Simply assemble the pinwheels, place them on a baking sheet, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and store in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. When approach serving time, just pop them in the oven fresh for about 15-20 minutes—your guests will think you made them right before serving!