These buttery swirls are quick to make and perfect for brunch, parties, or an afternoon treat. Cream Cheese and Jam Pinwheels are easy to roll, bake, and share—ready in under an hour and adored by kids and adults alike. Pair them with savory bites like creamy gnocchi with spinach and feta for a balanced spread.
Why You’ll Love This Cream Cheese and Jam Pinwheels
- Sweet and creamy with a tender, flaky bite.
- Ready in minutes, ideal for last-minute guests.
- Great for meal prep and portable lunches.
- Kid-friendly and perfect for parties or potlucks.
- Easy to customize with different jams or spreads.
Ingredients Needed
Dairy
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
Baking
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Flavor
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup fruit jam (your choice)
Step-by-Step Instructions 5 (always use H2 and H3)
1. Preheat and prep
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix cream cheese, butter, and sugar
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, butter, and sugar until smooth.
3. Add flour and salt
Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms.
4. Divide and roll
Divide the dough into two equal portions and roll each into a rectangle on a floured surface.
5. Spread jam and roll
Spread jam evenly over each rectangle, then roll the dough tightly into pinwheels and cut into slices.
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 brunch.
- Offer alongside easy and creamy tomato garlic pasta for a cozy combo.
- Plate on a tiered tray with savory finger foods for parties.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream or lemon curd on the side.
Tips for Success Cream Cheese and Jam Pinwheels
- Keep cream cheese and butter softened but not melted for easy mixing.
- Chill the rolled dough briefly if it gets too soft before slicing.
- Use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut clean pinwheels without squashing.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days, or refrigerate up to 5 days.
- For more hearty pairing ideas, try the creamy low-carb chicken casserole with broccoli and bacon on the side.
Variations
Here are a few easy ways to change it up:
- Swap jam for Nutella or a cinnamon sugar spread for a different flavor.
- Make them mini by rolling thinner rectangles and cutting smaller slices.
- For a dairy-free option, use vegan cream cheese and plant-based butter.
Follow us on Pinterest for more cozy ideas.
Cream Cheese and Jam Pinwheels
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, butter, and sugar until smooth.
- Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms.
- Divide the dough into two equal portions and roll each into a rectangle on a floured surface.
- Spread jam evenly over each rectangle, then roll the dough tightly into pinwheels and cut into slices.
- Place pinwheels on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden. Allow to cool before serving.
