Cranberry Brie Pinwheels

Cranberry Brie Pinwheels are a delightful treat that combines the tartness of cranberries with the creamy richness of brie cheese. Each bite delivers a burst of flavor wrapped in a flaky puff pastry. These pinwheels are perfect for holiday gatherings, parties, or even as a unique snack. The simplicity of the ingredients makes it appealing to both novice and experienced cooks.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

You will love Cranberry Brie Pinwheels for many reasons. First, they are simple and quick to make. You can prepare them in no time and impress your guests with minimal effort. The sweet and savory flavor profile is unique, making it a delightful change from regular appetizers. The crisp texture of the puff pastry pairs wonderfully with the creamy brie and sweet cranberry sauce. Plus, they are visually stunning, making them a perfect addition to any festive table.

HOW TO MAKE Cranberry Brie Pinwheels

Creating Cranberry Brie Pinwheels is an easy process that anyone can follow. You will enjoy making them as much as eating them. Follow the step-by-step instructions below to create your very own delicious pinwheels!

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

To make this recipe, you will need the following equipment:

• Medium saucepan for cooking the cranberry sauce
• Baking sheets lined with parchment paper
• Rolling pin for rolling out the puff pastry
• Knife for slicing the logs
• Measuring cups and spoons for precise ingredient measurements
• Mixing spoon for stirring the ingredients

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 12 ounces fresh cranberries, rinsed and picked through
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1 sprig rosemary or 1 quarter of an orange peel
• 17.3 ounces puff pastry, thawed (1 package)
• 8 ounces brie (1 wheel)
• 1 tablespoon chopped rosemary or orange zest (optional)

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Quick Cranberry Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine cranberries, granulated sugar, water, and either a rosemary sprig or orange peel. Cook until the cranberries break down and thicken to resemble jam, about 20 minutes. Remove the rosemary or peel and let cool. It will thicken as it cools.
2. Preheat your oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.
3. Assembly: Roll out one sheet of puff pastry slightly to remove creases. Spread the cranberry sauce over the pastry, leaving half an inch on one edge. Lay thin slices of brie over the sauce and sprinkle with chopped rosemary or orange zest. Brush the bare edge with water to help seal it. Roll the pastry into a log starting from the edge opposite the bare side. Repeat with the second sheet of puff pastry.
4. Freeze the log: Freeze the logs seam side down for 20-30 minutes until firm enough to slice. Cut each log into 12 even slices and transfer to the baking sheets.
5. Bake: Bake until the pastry is puffed and golden brown on the edges, about 23-25 minutes. Let cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.

 

 

HOW TO SERVE Cranberry Brie Pinwheels

Cranberry Brie Pinwheels can be served warm or at room temperature. They are great as an appetizer at a party or as a snack during the holiday season. You can serve them with additional cranberry sauce on the side or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra burst of flavor. Pair them with a glass of sparkling wine or apple cider for a refreshing experience.

STORAGE & FREEZING: Cranberry Brie Pinwheels

If you have leftovers, Cranberry Brie Pinwheels can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. If you want to prepare them ahead of time, you can freeze the unbaked pinwheels. Just wrap each log tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you are ready to bake, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

Here are some great serving suggestions for your Cranberry Brie Pinwheels:

• Serve them alongside a cheese platter with assorted cheeses, nuts, and fruits.
• Pair with a crisp, green salad for a light meal.
• Include them as part of a holiday buffet spread.
• Serve with various dipping sauces, such as honey or a spicy mustard.

VARIATIONS

If you want to switch things up, consider these variations on Cranberry Brie Pinwheels:

• Nutty Twist: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
• Herb Infusion: Replace rosemary with fresh thyme or sage for a different flavor.
• Sweet & Spicy: Add a slice of jalapeño or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a kick.
• Fruit Swap: Substitute cranberries with other fruits like apple slices or cherry preserves.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh? Yes, you can use frozen cranberries, but you may need to cook them a little longer to break them down.
2. What can I use instead of brie? You can use other types of cheese, such as camembert or goat cheese, for a different flavor profile.
3. Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare them up to the baking step, then freeze them until you are ready to bake.
4. Are Cranberry Brie Pinwheels vegetarian? Yes, the recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat products.

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Cranberry Brie Pinwheels

To save time during busy occasions, you can prepare the cranberry sauce a day in advance. Allow it to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. You can also assemble the pinwheels and keep them wrapped in plastic wrap in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking them. If you decide to freeze them, remember to add extra baking time when you take them directly from the freezer to the oven. Enjoy delicious Cranberry Brie Pinwheels with minimal stress!

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