Raspberry Pinwheels: Easy and Delicious Treats

Introduction

Indulging in sweet treats doesn’t have to be complicated. This delightful raspberry cream cheese pastry is a quick and easy dessert that is sure to impress your guests. With a premade pie crust and a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious treat that combines the creamy texture of cream cheese with the fruity flavor of raspberry preserves. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is simple enough for beginners but impressive enough to serve at gatherings.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– 1 premade pie crust
– 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
– ¼ cup sugar
– ¼ cup raspberry preserves
– ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
– Powdered sugar for topping (optional)

Prep Time

20 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 10 to 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes (including chilling)
Yield: Approximately 12 pastries

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sugar, raspberry preserves, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is smooth.

2. Unroll the pie crust on a flat surface. Using a spatula, spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the entire crust.

3. Starting from one end, roll up the crust into a log shape. Wrap the rolled dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour.

4. Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

5. Remove the plastic wrap from the chilled dough and slice the log into ½-inch pieces. Place the slices on the prepared baking sheet.

6. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the pie crust begins to brown.

7. Allow the pastries to cool to room temperature. If desired, dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture

In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sugar, raspberry preserves, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is smooth.

Step 2: Unroll the Pie Crust

Unroll the pie crust on a flat surface. Using a spatula, spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the entire crust.

Step 3: Roll the Crust

Starting from one end, roll up the crust into a log shape. Wrap the rolled dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour.

Step 4: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 5: Slice the Chilled Dough

Remove the plastic wrap from the chilled dough and slice the log into ½-inch pieces. Place the slices on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 6: Bake the Pastries

Bake for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the pie crust begins to brown.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Allow the pastries to cool to room temperature. If desired, dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Notes

Tip for Cream Cheese Mixture

Ensure that the cream cheese is completely softened to make mixing easier and to achieve a smoother consistency.

Tip for Rolling the Dough

Make sure to roll the dough tightly to prevent it from unrolling during baking.

Tip for Baking Time

Keep an eye on the pastries towards the end of the baking time to prevent over-browning.

Tip for Serving

These pastries are best enjoyed fresh; however, they can be stored in an airtight container for a couple of days at room temperature.

Raspberry Pinwheels: Easy and Delicious Treats
Raspberry Pinwheels: Easy and Delicious Treats

Cook techniques

Mixing

Combine the ingredients thoroughly to create a smooth and creamy filling. Ensure the cream cheese is softened for easy blending.

Spreading

Use a spatula to evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over the pie crust. This ensures that each slice has a balanced amount of filling.

Rolling

Start from one end and roll the pie crust tightly into a log shape. This technique helps maintain the shape and ensures even cooking.

Chilling

Wrap the rolled dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour. Chilling helps the dough firm up, making it easier to slice.

Slicing

Cut the chilled log into ½-inch pieces with a sharp knife. Uniform slices ensure that each pastry bakes evenly.

Baking

Bake in a preheated oven until the pie crust is golden brown. This indicates that the pastries are cooked through and have a desirable texture.

Finishing

Allow the pastries to cool before dusting with powdered sugar, if desired. This step adds an appealing presentation and a touch of sweetness.

FAQ

Can I use a homemade pie crust instead of premade?

Yes, a homemade pie crust can be used, but ensure it’s rolled out to a similar thickness as the premade crust for best results.

What can I substitute for raspberry preserves?

You can use other fruit preserves or jams, such as strawberry or blueberry, depending on your taste preference.

How do I know when the pastries are done baking?

The pastries are done when the crust is golden brown and slightly puffed. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the rolled log in advance and refrigerate it. Bake them just before serving for the best texture.

Is it necessary to chill the dough before slicing?

Chilling the dough helps it hold its shape and makes it easier to slice cleanly. It’s highly recommended for best results.

Conclusion

This delicious cream cheese and raspberry roll-up pastry is a delightful treat that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. The creamy filling paired with the flaky crust creates a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed any time of the day. Serve them warm or at room temperature, and don’t forget the optional dusting of powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Berry Cream Cheese Danish

Substitute raspberry preserves for blueberry or strawberry preserves, and top with a sprinkle of chopped nuts or a drizzle of icing for added flavor.

Chocolate Cream Cheese Rolls

Replace raspberry preserves with chocolate hazelnut spread, and add mini chocolate chips to the cream cheese mixture for a rich dessert.

Cinnamon Sugar Pinwheels

Omit the raspberry preserves and sprinkle the rolled dough with cinnamon sugar before rolling it up to create a sweet cinnamon treat.

Peach Cream Cheese Strudel

Use peach preserves instead of raspberry, and consider adding fresh peach slices for a fruity twist.

Nutella and Banana Roll-Ups

Spread Nutella instead of raspberry preserves and add thinly sliced bananas before rolling up for a deliciously decadent dessert.

Raspberry Pinwheels: Easy and Delicious Treats
Raspberry Pinwheels: Easy and Delicious Treats