Blackberry Brie pinwheels are a delightful combination of buttery, flaky puff pastry, creamy Brie cheese, and sweet blackberry preserves. This easy-to-make appetizer is perfect for parties, brunches, or as a simple yet elegant snack. The balance of sweet and savory flavors makes them irresistible.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Elegant and easy: A gourmet-looking appetizer made with minimal effort.
- Perfect flavor balance: Sweet blackberries and creamy Brie are a match made in heaven.
- Versatile: Great for holidays, brunches, or afternoon tea.
- Customizable: Swap the preserves or add nuts for extra texture.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Puff pastry sheet, thawed
- Brie cheese, thinly sliced
- Blackberry preserves (or fresh blackberries)
- Egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Optional: Chopped pecans or walnuts
Garnishes:
- Fresh thyme or rosemary
- Powdered sugar (for a sweet touch)
Directions
- Prepare the puff pastry:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface to smooth any creases.
- Assemble the pinwheels:
- Spread a thin, even layer of blackberry preserves over the puff pastry, leaving a ½-inch border around the edges.
- Arrange the Brie slices evenly on top of the preserves. If desired, sprinkle with chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
- Roll and slice:
- Starting at one end, roll the puff pastry into a tight log. Use a sharp knife to slice the log into ½-inch thick rounds.
- Prepare for baking:
- Place the pinwheels on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Brush the tops with beaten egg to give them a golden finish.
- Bake:
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and puffed.
- Serve:
- Let the pinwheels cool slightly before garnishing with fresh thyme or rosemary. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes about 12-15 pinwheels
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Raspberry twist: Use raspberry preserves instead of blackberry for a slightly tangy flavor.
- Savory version: Add a sprinkle of black pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for a savory kick.
- Nutty crunch: Substitute chopped almonds or pistachios for pecans.
- Herbed delight: Mix chopped fresh thyme or rosemary into the preserves before spreading.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh blackberries?
Yes, mash fresh blackberries and mix with a little sugar to create a preserve-like consistency.
2. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate the unbaked pinwheels for up to 1 day. Bake just before serving.
3. Can I freeze the pinwheels?
Yes, freeze unbaked pinwheels on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 2-3 minutes to the cooking time.
4. Do I have to remove the rind from the Brie?
No, the rind is edible and adds flavor, but you can remove it if preferred.
5. Can I use store-bought crescent dough instead of puff pastry?
Yes, crescent dough can be used for a softer texture.
6. How do I prevent the pinwheels from unraveling?
Ensure the roll is tight and refrigerate the log for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
7. What can I serve with these pinwheels?
Pair with a glass of wine, a charcuterie board, or a light salad for a complete appetizer spread.
8. Can I make them gluten-free?
Use gluten-free puff pastry to accommodate dietary needs.
9. How do I ensure the pinwheels cook evenly?
Space them apart on the baking sheet and bake in the middle of the oven for consistent heat distribution.
10. Can I add a drizzle on top?
Yes, drizzle with honey or balsamic glaze for an extra touch of sweetness.
Conclusion
Blackberry Brie pinwheels are a stunning yet simple appetizer that combines sweet, savory, and buttery flavors in every bite. Perfect for any occasion, these pinwheels are as delicious as they are impressive. Try this recipe for your next gathering and watch them disappear in no time!
PrintBlackberry Brie Pinwheels
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 12 pinwheels 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Blackberry Brie Pinwheels are a sweet and savory appetizer that’s both elegant and simple to make. Buttery puff pastry is layered with creamy brie, sweet blackberry preserves, and a touch of fresh thyme, then baked to golden perfection. Perfect for holidays, parties, or anytime you want a fancy snack!
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 4 oz brie cheese, sliced thinly
- 1/3 cup blackberry preserves
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (optional)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar (optional, for sweetness)
Instructions
- Prepare the Puff Pastry:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface to smooth the edges.
- Layer the Ingredients:
- Spread the blackberry preserves evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border on all sides.
- Arrange the slices of brie evenly over the preserves.
- Sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves for an herby touch.
- Roll and Slice:
- Roll the puff pastry tightly into a log, starting from one of the long sides.
- Chill the log in the freezer for 10–15 minutes to make slicing easier.
- Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 1/2-inch thick rounds.
- Bake the Pinwheels:
- Place the slices onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Brush the tops with the beaten egg for a golden finish. Sprinkle with sugar if desired for a sweet touch.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
- Serve:
- Allow the pinwheels to cool slightly before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Substitute raspberry or fig preserves if blackberry isn’t available.
- Add a sprinkle of crushed pecans or walnuts for extra texture and flavor.
- For extra richness, drizzle with honey before serving.