Cream Cheese Pinwheels Recipe

Learn how to make the best homemade cream cheese pinwheels with this easy baking recipe. Flaky puff pastry wrapped around a savory herb-infused cream cheese filling creates an impressive appetizer that's deceptively simple to prepare. Perfect for parties or family gatherings!

Difficulty:

Beginner

Prep Time:

20 mins

Cook Time:

18 mins

Serves:

24 pinwheels

Ingredients

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"><li class="ingredients-single-item">320g ready-rolled puff pastry (2 sheets)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">225g cream cheese, softened</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh chives</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh dill</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">2 cloves garlic, minced</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 teaspoon lemon zest</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1/4 teaspoon salt</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">2 tablespoons sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional)</li></ul>

Equipment

<ul class="equipment-main-list"><li class="equipment-single-item">Baking sheets</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Parchment paper</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Rolling pin</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Pastry brush</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Sharp knife</li></ul>

Directions

<ol class="no-list-style"><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4>Remove the puff pastry sheets from the refrigerator and allow them to rest at room temperature for about 10 minutes until pliable but still cool. This makes the pastry easier to roll without it becoming too soft. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4>In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped chives, dill, minced garlic, lemon zest, black pepper, and salt. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. The acidity from the lemon zest helps balance the richness of the cream cheese while bringing out the herbal flavors.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4>On a lightly floured surface, unroll the first puff pastry sheet. If needed, use a rolling pin to gently roll it into a rectangle approximately 25cm x 30cm (10" x 12"). The light rolling helps seal any cracks in the pastry while maintaining its layered structure.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4>Spread half of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a 1cm (½ inch) border along one long edge. This border will help seal the roll and prevent the filling from leaking during baking.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4>Starting from the long edge without the border, carefully roll the pastry into a tight log, gently pressing the seam to seal it. Place the log seam-side down on a piece of parchment paper and refrigerate for 15 minutes. The chilling time firms up the butter in the pastry, making it easier to slice cleanly without squashing the roll.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4>Repeat steps 3-5 with the second sheet of puff pastry and remaining cream cheese filling. While this log chills, prepare your egg wash by whisking together the egg and water in a small bowl.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4>Remove the first chilled log and use a sharp knife to cut it into 1.5cm (about ½ inch) thick slices. A sharp knife is crucial here - avoid sawing motions which can compress the layers. Place the pinwheels on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 5cm (2 inches) between each one to allow for expansion.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 8</h4>Brush the tops of the pinwheels with the egg wash, which will give them a beautiful golden shine during baking. Sprinkle with sesame or poppy seeds if using. The seeds not only add visual appeal but also a subtle nutty flavor and pleasant crunch.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 9</h4>Bake in the preheated oven for 16-18 minutes, until the pinwheels are puffed up and golden brown. The pastry should feel crisp to the touch and you'll see distinct, flaky layers. If baking both sheets at once, rotate them halfway through for even browning.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 10</h4>Allow the pinwheels to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This brief resting period allows the cream cheese filling to set slightly, making them easier to handle. Serve warm or at room temperature. If making ahead, you can reheat them in a 160°C (325°F) oven for 5 minutes to restore their crispness.</li></ol>

FAQs

Find answers to your most pressing questions about this delicious recipe right here.

What ingredients are used in Cream Cheese Pinwheels?

Cream Cheese Pinwheels require puff pastry sheets, cream cheese, fresh herbs (chives and dill), garlic, lemon zest, black pepper, salt, and an egg wash. Optional ingredients include sesame or poppy seeds for garnish.

How to cook Cream Cheese Pinwheels at home?

Learn how to cook Cream Cheese Pinwheels by spreading herb-infused cream cheese on puff pastry, rolling it into logs, chilling, slicing into pinwheels, and baking at 200°C for 16-18 minutes until golden and flaky. The process is straightforward even for beginners, resulting in impressive party-worthy appetisers with minimal effort.

Can these pastry pinwheels be made ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the rolls up to 24 hours in advance and keep them refrigerated. Either slice and bake just before serving, or fully bake ahead, refrigerate, and reheat in a 160°C oven for 5 minutes to restore crispness. The make-ahead option makes them perfect for entertaining.

What are some flavour variations for puff pastry pinwheels?

Get creative with your fillings! Try sun-dried tomato and basil, spinach and feta, pesto and parmesan, ham and cheese, or cinnamon sugar for sweet versions. You can even add cooked bacon bits, caramelised onions, or different herb combinations to customise the flavour profile.

Why did my pinwheels lose their shape when baking?

Pinwheels can lose shape if the pastry gets too warm before baking. Always chill the rolled logs for at least 15 minutes, use a sharp knife for clean cuts, and ensure your oven is fully preheated. Keeping everything cold maintains the butter layers that create that perfect flaky texture.

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