These Cream Cheese Jam Pinwheel Cookies are flaky, buttery, and perfectly sweet, with a hint of tartness from raspberry jam. Ideal for holiday gatherings or cozy afternoons with coffee or tea, these cookies add a festive charm to any occasion. The cream cheese in the dough makes these treats tender and deliciously soft.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Chill Time: 45 minutes
- Bake Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: 30 cookies
- Calories: Approximately 102 kcal per cookie
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/3 cup seedless raspberry jam (or your favorite jam)
- Powdered sugar, for sprinkling on top
Instructions
Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth. Add the salt and sifted flour, mixing until combined and a dough begins to form.
Shape and Chill the Dough: Shape the dough into a ball, then press down to form a flat disc. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Roll Out the Dough: Generously flour your countertop. Place the chilled dough on the floured surface and sprinkle a bit more flour on top. Using a rolling pin, roll out the dough to a 10” x 12” rectangle. Lift the dough, add more flour to the surface as needed, then roll it out further to reach a 10” x 30” rectangle.
Add the Jam and Roll: Spread an even layer of jam over the dough, leaving about 1/2 inch bare along one of the shorter edges. Roll the dough up tightly into a 10” log. Chill for another 15 minutes.
Slice and Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Using sewing thread or dental floss, slice the dough into 1/4-inch rounds. Place each slice flat on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Bake: Bake for 17-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden. Transfer cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.
Decorate: Once cooled, sprinkle powdered sugar over the top for a festive, snowy finish.
Serving Suggestion
These cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings, brunches, or afternoon tea. The jam adds a subtle sweetness and fruity flavor that balances the rich, buttery dough. Serve with a warm cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate for a cozy and satisfying treat.
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigeration: To keep them fresh longer, refrigerate for up to a week.
- Freezing: You can freeze the dough log before slicing and baking, wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and storing in a freezer bag for up to a month. Thaw in the refrigerator before slicing and baking.
Helpful Notes
- Rolling Technique: To prevent sticking, keep your work surface and rolling pin well-floured.
- Jam Variety: Use any seedless jam you love—strawberry, apricot, or blueberry all work beautifully.
- Clean Slicing: Using sewing thread or dental floss to slice the rolled dough creates clean edges without squishing the log.
Chef Tips
- Chef Dorie Greenspan: Recommends chilling the dough thoroughly to ensure that the pinwheel shape holds during baking.
- Chef Ina Garten: Suggests adding a touch of lemon zest to the dough for a subtle brightness that complements the jam.
- Chef Claire Saffitz: Advises working quickly with the dough to prevent it from getting too soft and sticky, as the cream cheese base can warm easily.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use a different type of jam? Yes, any seedless jam such as strawberry, apricot, or blueberry will work well in these cookies.
2. Do I need to chill the dough? Yes, chilling the dough twice (before rolling and before slicing) ensures a better shape and texture when baking.
3. Can I make the dough ahead of time? Absolutely. The dough can be prepared and refrigerated up to 24 hours in advance.
4. How can I make the cookies less sweet? Use less jam or try using a lower-sugar jam for a milder sweetness.
5. Is there a way to make these gluten-free? Substitute with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, although the texture may be slightly different.
6. Why did my cookies spread too much? Over-softened dough may cause spreading. Ensure the dough is well-chilled before baking.
7. Can I skip the powdered sugar? Yes, the powdered sugar is optional but adds a festive finish.
8. What’s the best way to slice the dough? Using floss or thread makes it easier to get neat slices without squashing the roll.
9. Can I freeze the cookies after baking? Yes, but they’re best enjoyed fresh. If frozen, thaw at room temperature before serving.
10. Why is my dough sticky? If the dough becomes too soft, chill it longer before handling and keep your surface well-floured.
Final Thoughts
Cream Cheese Jam Pinwheel Cookies are a perfect blend of flaky dough and sweet jam, creating a delightful cookie that’s great for special occasions or holiday treats. With a touch of powdered sugar, these cookies become a beautiful, festive addition to any dessert table. Enjoy each soft, jam-filled bite with friends and family!