Brie & Cranberry Stuffed Flatbread Pinwheels Recipe

If you love the perfect balance of creamy cheese paired with the sweet-tart burst of cranberry, you are going to adore these Brie & Cranberry Stuffed Flatbread Pinwheels. This delightful appetizer offers a beautiful combination of flavors and textures wrapped in soft, warm flatbread—a deliciously easy way to impress guests or treat yourself. Every bite is a harmonious mix of gooey brie, zesty cranberry sauce, crunchy nuts, and just a hint of fresh herb and honey magic. Whether for a cozy night in or a festive gathering, these pinwheels deliver an irresistible blend that will quickly become your new favorite snack.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and straightforward, yet each one plays a crucial role in bringing together the incredible taste, texture, and color of the Brie & Cranberry Stuffed Flatbread Pinwheels.

• 2 large flatbreads or tortillas: These provide the soft, flexible base that holds the delicious filling together beautifully.
• 6 oz brie cheese, rind trimmed if desired: Creamy, rich, and melt-in-your-mouth, brie is the star of this recipe offering indulgent flavor.
• 1/2 cup whole berry cranberry sauce: Adds a sweet and tart pop that complements the brie’s creaminess perfectly.
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans: Adds a satisfying crunch and a deeper nutty flavor that enhances the overall bite.
• 1 tbsp honey (optional): A subtle drizzle of sweetness to tie all the flavors together with a little natural warmth.
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (optional): Introduces a fresh, earthy aroma that elevates the pinwheels to something truly special.
• 1 tbsp melted butter or olive oil (for brushing): Helps the pinwheels bake to a gorgeous golden finish and adds a touch of richness.

How to Make Brie & Cranberry Stuffed Flatbread Pinwheels

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Start by laying your flatbreads out on a clean, flat surface—this is your canvas. Spread a generous, even layer of whole berry cranberry sauce over each flatbread, making sure to leave a small border around the edges so everything stays inside when you roll. Next, slice the brie into thin pieces and arrange them evenly over the cranberry layer. The creamy brie will melt beautifully during baking. Sprinkle your choice of chopped walnuts or pecans on top; these add a needed crunch. If you want to elevate the flavor, drizzle with a bit of honey and scatter fresh thyme leaves across the top for that lovely aromatic hint.

Step 2: Roll and Slice

Now it’s time to roll! Carefully roll each flatbread tightly like a log, keeping all the filling inside. Wrap each log in plastic wrap and pop them in the fridge for 20 to 30 minutes. This chilling step firms up the logs, making it much easier to slice nice, even pinwheels. Once chilled, slice the logs into 1-inch thick pieces for perfectly sized bite-friendly appetizers.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the pinwheels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Lightly brush the tops with melted butter or olive oil—this step ensures they brown beautifully and have a lovely buttery sheen. Bake the pinwheels for about 12 to 15 minutes until they are golden and the brie inside has melted into creamy, dreamy goodness. They should look invitingly toasted on top and slightly bubbling with melted cheese.

How to Serve Brie & Cranberry Stuffed Flatbread Pinwheels

Garnishes

Adding simple garnishes can really pull together the presentation and flavor profile of these pinwheels. Sprinkle fresh thyme leaves on top just before serving for a fragrant pop of green. A light drizzle of honey right before plating adds a lovely glossy touch and enhances the sweet-savory play of flavors. If you enjoy a bit of color, finely chopped fresh parsley or a few pomegranate seeds can add vibrancy and a hint of freshness.

Side Dishes

These Brie & Cranberry Stuffed Flatbread Pinwheels are wonderful as a centerpiece or alongside other small bites. Pair them with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness. A bowl of roasted nuts or olives can complement the nutty crunch inside the pinwheels. For a heartier spread, serve alongside some charcuterie meats and fresh fruit for the ultimate elegant appetizer board.

Creative Ways to Present

Presentation can turn this simple dish into a show-stopper! Arrange the pinwheels in a circular “flower” pattern on a large platter for a festive look. You can serve them stacked on a tiered tray for parties or line them up neatly on a wooden board with fresh herbs scattered around. For a fun twist, pop a small toothpick into each pinwheel to make them easy to grab and add decorative picks if it’s for a holiday or special event.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, don’t worry—these pinwheels keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Storing them properly helps maintain the brie’s creamy texture and prevents the flatbread from drying out. Simply cover tightly with plastic wrap or put them in a well-sealed container.

Freezing

You can freeze the unbaked rolled logs before slicing. Wrap each log tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil and freeze for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to bake, thaw them overnight in the fridge, slice, and bake as usual. This makes them perfect for prepping ahead for parties or busy days.

Reheating

To enjoy leftovers warm and melty, reheat the pinwheels in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8 to 10 minutes. This method helps maintain a crisp outside while warming the cheese perfectly. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve their texture, as it can make the flatbread soggy.

FAQs

Can I use another type of cheese instead of brie?

Absolutely! While brie is ideal for its creamy melt and mild flavor, you could try camembert for a similar profile or a milder cream cheese blend if you prefer. Just keep in mind the texture and melting quality might vary.

Is it better to use homemade cranberry sauce or store-bought?

Both options work perfectly here! Store-bought cranberry sauce is a huge time-saver and often has the perfect balance of sweet and tart. Homemade sauce offers freshness and customizable sweetness, so feel free to choose based on your preference and time.

Can I prepare the pinwheels completely ahead of time?

Yes, preparing and rolling the pinwheels ahead (and chilling them) works great. You can slice and bake them the day of your event to ensure maximum freshness and crispness.

Are these pinwheels suitable for a vegetarian diet?

Definitely! Brie & Cranberry Stuffed Flatbread Pinwheels contain no meat products and are a fantastic vegetarian-friendly appetizer option full of flavor and texture.

What’s the best way to cut the pinwheel slices evenly?

Chilling the rolled flatbread logs before slicing is key. Use a sharp knife and slice gently with a back-and-forth motion to keep the edges clean and the pinwheels intact.

Final Thoughts

These Brie & Cranberry Stuffed Flatbread Pinwheels are a simple yet spectacular treat that brings warmth and joy to any table. Whether you’re making them for a casual snack or a festive occasion, they never fail to delight with their perfect blend of creamy, sweet, nutty, and fresh notes. Give this recipe a try—you’ll quickly find these pinwheels becoming a well-loved staple in your recipe collection!