Cinnamon Pinwheels
Sweet cinnamon pinwheels with buttery, flaky layers and a rich cinnamon sugar filling, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a delightful treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut margarine into the flour using a pastry blender until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in sour cream, cover, and refrigerate for at least 8 hours.
- Mix 3 tablespoons sugar and cinnamon together to make the filling.
- Divide the dough into two equal halves.
- Roll one half into a rectangle measuring 20 x 7 inches on a sugared and floured cloth-covered board.
- Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the rolled dough.
- Roll up tightly starting from the short end.
- Repeat with the second half of the dough and remaining cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Place the rolled dough on a surface, seam side down, and pinch the edges to seal.
- Continue to roll up tightly, then wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour but no longer than 48 hours.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C).
- Cut the roll into 1/4-inch slices.
- Place the slices about 2 inches apart on an ungreased baking sheet.
- Mix 3 tablespoons sugar with water and brush over the cut cookies.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flakier texture, ensure your butter is very cold when cutting into the flour. You can substitute half of the butter with cream cheese for a richer flavor. If you prefer a less sweet option, reduce the sugar in the filling. Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or cardamom for a unique twist, reminiscent of variations seen in American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve cinnamon pinwheels warm with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat. They also pair beautifully with creamy desserts like ice cream or can be enjoyed alongside a fresh fruit salad. For a wonderful brunch spread, consider including them with items like Homestyle Frank And Cheese Dinner or Nutritious Zucchini Cookies.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cinnamon pinwheels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cinnamon Pinwheels contains roughly 97 calories, with 2g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 48 hours before rolling it out. This allows the flavors to meld and results in a better texture. Just make sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before rolling to make it easier to handle.
What can I use if I don't have sour cream?
If you don't have sour cream, you can substitute it with plain Greek yogurt or a mixture of milk and vinegar (1 cup milk + 1 tablespoon vinegar, let it sit for 5 minutes). Both options will maintain the moisture and tanginess needed for the recipe.
How do I know when the pinwheels are done baking?
The pinwheels are done when they are golden brown on the edges and firm to the touch. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking, as ovens can vary. A light golden color indicates they are perfectly baked and ready to enjoy!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).