Sweet, buttery, and perfect for brunch or snack trays, these Cream Cheese and Jam Pinwheels come together quickly and taste like tiny bakery treats. They’re ideal for busy mornings or party platters, and if you want a savory twist try our cranberry feta pinwheels recipe for a festive swap.
Why You’ll Love This Cream Cheese and Jam Pinwheels
- Ready in under 30 minutes from start to finish.
- Kid-friendly flavors everyone recognizes and loves.
- Great for meal prep and easy to pack for lunches.
- Sweet and creamy combination with a tender, buttery dough.
- Makes attractive, shareable bites for parties and gatherings.
Ingredients Needed
- Dairy
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- Baking
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- Flavorings & Fillings
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup fruit jam (your choice)
- Seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Step-by-Step Instructions 5 (always use H2 and H3)
Step 1: Preheat and prep
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Cream the fats and sugar
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, butter, and sugar until smooth.
Step 3: Make the dough
Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms.
Step 4: Roll into rectangles
Divide the dough into two equal portions and roll each into a rectangle on a floured surface.
Step 5: Add jam and roll
Spread jam evenly over each rectangle, then roll the dough tightly into pinwheels and cut into slices.
Step 6: Bake and cool
Place pinwheels on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden. Allow to cool before serving.
Serving Suggestions Cream Cheese and Jam Pinwheels
- Serve warm with a dusting of powdered sugar for a pretty finish.
- Pair with fresh fruit and yogurt for a bright brunch board.
- Add a side of tangy coleslaw and a warm bowl of BBQ chicken mac and cheese for a comforting spread.
- Offer a small dish of lemon curd or extra jam for dipping.
- Present on a tiered tray for shower or holiday gatherings.
Tips for Success Cream Cheese and Jam Pinwheels
- Use room-temperature cream cheese and butter so they combine smoothly and create a tender dough.
- If dough feels sticky, chill for 10 minutes before rolling to make handling easier.
- Spread jam thinly to prevent soggy centers and ensure even baking.
- For make-ahead ease, slice and freeze unbaked pinwheels flat on a tray, then transfer to a bag; bake straight from frozen adding a few extra minutes.
- For a savory party pairing, serve alongside beef and cheese chimichangas for a hearty option.
Variations
Here are a few easy ways to change it up:
- Swap the jam for Nutella or cookie butter for a chocolate-hazelnut version.
- Add citrus zest to the dough for a bright lemon or orange pinwheel.
- Make it dairy-free by using vegan cream cheese and plant-based butter.
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