These Easy Eggnog Pinwheels are the perfect holiday treat. Celebrate the flavors of the season with eggnog flavored filled crescent rolls!

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Easy Eggnog Pinwheels: Your Ultimate Holiday Dessert

As the holiday season draws near, the air fills with a familiar magic, and kitchens worldwide begin to bustle with the comforting scents of festive baking. Among these cherished traditions, eggnog holds a special place, often conjuring memories of warmth, family, and celebration. While the rich, creamy drink itself can be quite divisive – some adore it, others prefer its flavor in other forms – there’s no denying the beloved taste of eggnog during this time of year. This year, we’re taking that iconic holiday flavor and transforming it into an utterly irresistible, bite-sized treat: Easy Eggnog Pinwheels. Imagine flaky, golden crescent rolls, generously filled with a velvety, spiced eggnog cream cheese mixture, and then drizzled with a sweet, simple glaze. These pinwheels are not just a dessert; they are a delightful embodiment of holiday cheer, perfect for any festive occasion.

The Irresistible Charm of Eggnog: A Flavor, Not Just a Drink

My own relationship with eggnog began on a magical New Year’s Eve as a child. The clanging of pots and pans at midnight, the joyful shouts, and then, a glass of that distinctively creamy, nutmeg-kissed beverage. It’s a memory etched in my mind, even if the drink itself was a bit much for my younger palate. This experience isn’t unique; many people find the flavor of eggnog enchanting but struggle to finish an entire glass. The richness, the spice, the unique combination of vanilla and rum notes – it’s undeniably festive. However, it’s a taste best savored in moderation, and often, it shines brightest when it’s incorporated into baked goods or desserts rather than sipped on its own. It’s truly a flavor designed for the holiday season, a warm hug in culinary form, and certainly not something one typically craves during the warmer months.

This realization has led me to explore the versatility of eggnog beyond the traditional mug. Why confine such a beloved seasonal flavor to a drink when it can elevate so many other treats? For years, I’ve shared numerous recipes, yet it strikes me that I’ve only scratched the surface with eggnog-inspired creations. Until now! This season, I’m fully embracing the spirit of eggnog, and these pinwheels are just the beginning of what I’m dubbing my “Eggnog Week” – a celebration of all things nutmeg, rum, and creamy goodness. Prepare yourselves for a delightful array of eggnog-infused delights, starting with this wonderfully simple and utterly addictive recipe.

Why These Easy Eggnog Pinwheels Are a Must-Try Holiday Treat

Among the many festive recipes I’ve crafted, these Easy Eggnog Pinwheels quickly became a personal favorite – and for good reason. They strike the perfect balance between ease of preparation and gourmet taste, making them an ideal choice for busy holiday entertainers and home bakers alike. The magic truly happens when the flaky, buttery layers of Pillsbury crescent rolls meet the incredibly rich and creamy eggnog filling. Each bite delivers a harmonious blend of textures and flavors: the delicate crispness of the baked dough, followed by the smooth, sweet, and subtly spiced cream cheese mixture. It’s a taste sensation that embodies the very essence of holiday indulgence.

What makes these pinwheels stand out? Their versatility. Serve them as a charming sweet appetizer at your next holiday gathering, where guests can easily grab a bite without needing plates and forks. Offer them as a delightful addition to your Christmas morning breakfast spread, alongside coffee or hot cocoa. Or simply enjoy them as a comforting sweet treat during an afternoon snack break or as a light dessert after a festive meal. No matter the occasion, these eggnog pinwheels are guaranteed to bring smiles and satisfy even the most discerning sweet tooth. They’re quick enough for a last-minute contribution to a potluck and impressive enough to be the star of your dessert table.

Crafting Your Perfect Eggnog Pinwheels: Ingredients and Preparation

The beauty of these Eggnog Pinwheels lies in their simplicity, requiring just a handful of readily available ingredients and straightforward steps. Don’t let the elegant appearance fool you; these are incredibly easy to make, even for novice bakers. The key to their success is in the quality of the ingredients and a few simple techniques.

Key Ingredients for Success

Cream Cheese: Ensure it’s softened to room temperature. This is crucial for achieving a smooth, lump-free filling that spreads easily and bakes beautifully. Full-fat cream cheese offers the best richness and texture.
Sugar & Spices: Granulated sugar adds sweetness, while rum extract provides that characteristic eggnog depth without the alcohol. A touch of nutmeg is absolutely essential; freshly grated nutmeg will elevate the flavor profile significantly, offering a more vibrant and aromatic spice.
Pillsbury® Refrigerated Crescent Dinner Rolls: These are the ultimate shortcut for flaky, tender pastry. Their pre-made nature means less time spent on dough preparation and more time enjoying the baking process. Any brand of refrigerated crescent roll dough will work.
Icing Ingredients: Powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar) forms the base of our simple glaze, combined with softened butter and milk. The milk allows you to adjust the consistency to your desired drizzling thickness.

Step-by-Step Baking Guide

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the rolls bake quickly and evenly, achieving that desirable golden-brown crispness.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, rum extract, and ground nutmeg. Beat them together until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and well combined. This is where the magic eggnog flavor truly develops.
Unroll and Seal the Dough: Carefully unroll both cans of crescent dough. Separate each package into two long rectangles. Firmly press the perforations in each rectangle to seal them completely, creating four 12×4-inch rectangles.
Spread the Filling and Roll: Generously spread the prepared cream cheese mixture evenly over the top of each of the four dough rectangles. Starting from one of the short sides, carefully roll up each rectangle tightly, pressing the edge firmly to seal it. This creates the classic pinwheel spiral.
Slice and Arrange: Using a sharp serrated knife (this helps prevent squashing the dough), cut each rolled log into six uniform slices. Place these slices, cut-side down, onto an ungreased baking sheet, leaving a little space between each pinwheel.
Bake to Golden Perfection: Bake for 12 to 17 minutes, or until the edges of the pinwheels are beautifully golden brown and the filling is set. Keep an eye on them, as oven temperatures can vary. Once baked, remove them from the baking sheet and let them cool completely on a wire rack before icing.
Whip Up the Icing and Garnish: While the pinwheels cool, prepare the icing. In a small bowl, combine the powdered sugar, softened butter, and 1 tablespoon of milk. Whisk until smooth. Gradually add more milk, a tiny bit at a time, until you reach a smooth, drizzly consistency. Drizzle this delightful icing over the cooled pinwheels. For an extra touch of elegance and flavor, grate fresh nutmeg directly over the iced pinwheels just before serving.
Store: For optimal freshness and safety, store any leftover Eggnog Pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Tips for Flawless Eggnog Pinwheels Every Time

Achieving bakery-quality pinwheels at home is simpler than you think with these expert tips:

Room Temperature Cream Cheese: This cannot be stressed enough. Cold cream cheese will result in a lumpy filling that’s difficult to spread and won’t incorporate well with the sugar and extracts.
Don’t Overfill: While it’s tempting to load up on the creamy filling, too much can cause it to ooze out during baking. A thin, even layer is best.
Sealing the Dough: When pressing the crescent dough perforations, be thorough. A good seal prevents the filling from escaping and helps maintain the pinwheel shape.
Serrated Knife for Slicing: This is a game-changer. A sharp serrated knife cuts through the dough cleanly without squishing the delicate layers or the filling. For even neater slices, you can chill the rolled dough logs for 15-20 minutes before cutting.
Fresh Nutmeg: Seriously, if you have a grater, use whole nutmeg. The difference in aroma and taste compared to pre-ground nutmeg is immense and truly elevates the “eggnog” experience.
Adjusting Icing Consistency: Start with less milk than you think you need for the icing. You can always add more, but you can’t easily take it away! A thick drizzle is usually preferred over a runny one.
Cool Completely Before Icing: Icing warm pinwheels will cause the glaze to melt and run off, creating a messy look. Patience is key for a beautiful finish.

Serving Suggestions: Beyond Just Dessert

These Easy Eggnog Pinwheels are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways:

Holiday Brunch Star: Serve them alongside coffee, tea, or even more eggnog (for those who love the drink!) as a sweet component of your Christmas morning or holiday brunch.
Festive Appetizer: Arrange them on a platter for a sweet appetizer at holiday parties. Their bite-sized nature makes them perfect for mingling.
Cozy Snack: Enjoy them with a cup of hot cocoa or a festive latte for a comforting afternoon treat during the chilly winter months.
Edible Gifts: Package a batch beautifully in a festive tin or box to give as homemade gifts to neighbors, friends, or teachers. They’re sure to be appreciated!
Dessert Platter: Pair them with other holiday cookies, fruit tarts, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extravagant dessert spread.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Planning ahead for your holiday baking is a breeze with these pinwheels:

Storage: Once cooled and iced, store the Eggnog Pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The cream cheese filling requires refrigeration.
Freezing Baked Pinwheels: You can freeze baked and cooled pinwheels (before icing) for up to 1 month. Thaw them in the refrigerator, then warm gently in the oven if desired, and then apply the fresh icing.
Make-Ahead Dough: To save time, you can prepare the cream cheese filling and spread it onto the dough rectangles, then roll them up and chill the logs (uncut) in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, slice and proceed with baking as directed. This is a fantastic option for busy holiday mornings!

Frequently Asked Questions About Eggnog Pinwheels

Can I use homemade crescent dough instead of canned?: Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade crescent roll recipe, feel free to use it. Just ensure the dough is rolled thin enough to mimic the canned variety for easy slicing and baking.
What if I don’t have rum extract?: You can substitute it with vanilla extract for a more classic sweet flavor, or a tiny splash of actual rum (like spiced rum or dark rum) if you prefer a boozier kick and are serving adults. Be mindful that using actual rum might alter the consistency slightly.
Can I add other spices to the filling?: Yes! A tiny pinch of cinnamon or allspice could complement the nutmeg beautifully. Start with a very small amount and taste as you go to avoid overpowering the eggnog flavor.
My pinwheels unraveled a bit while baking. What went wrong?: This usually happens if the dough wasn’t sealed tightly enough after rolling, or if the initial dough rectangles weren’t pressed together firmly. Ensure you press all perforations and the final seam firmly before slicing.
How do I get my icing to be perfectly drizzly?: The key is gradual addition of milk. Add a small amount (like 1/2 teaspoon) at a time, whisking well after each addition, until you reach your desired consistency. It should be thick enough to cling to the pinwheels but thin enough to flow smoothly.
Are these pinwheels suitable for children?: Yes, if you use rum extract, it’s typically an artificial flavoring and contains no alcohol. If you substitute with actual rum, then they would only be suitable for adult consumption.

More Holiday Delights: Other Eggnog Recipes

If these Eggnog Pinwheels have you craving more of that delightful holiday spice, you’re in luck! This season, my kitchen is a hub of eggnog experimentation, and I’m thrilled to share a few other favorites that capture the festive spirit:

Irresistible Eggnog Cookies: Soft, chewy, and bursting with classic eggnog flavor, these cookies are perfect for your holiday cookie platters.
Eggnog Quick Bread with a Decadent Eggnog Glaze: A moist, flavorful bread that makes an ideal breakfast, snack, or gift.
Luxurious Eggnog Croissant Bread Pudding with Caramel Eggnog Syrup: An elevated dessert, perfect for a special occasion, featuring rich flavors and textures.
Delightful Eggnog Cupcakes with Caramel Eggnog Buttercream: Individual treats that are as beautiful as they are delicious, crowned with a rich, festive frosting.

Embrace the Holiday Spirit with Easy Eggnog Pinwheels

Whether you’re hosting a grand holiday feast, looking for a comforting treat for your family, or simply want to infuse your home with the joyous scents of the season, these Easy Eggnog Pinwheels are the perfect choice. They embody everything wonderful about holiday baking: simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and an outcome that is utterly delicious and undeniably festive. So, gather your ingredients, turn on some holiday music, and get ready to create a batch of these enchanting pinwheels. They are more than just a recipe; they’re an invitation to make cherished memories and savor the magical flavors of the most wonderful time of the year. Happy baking!

Easy Eggnog Pinwheels Recipe

Author:
Deborah Harroun

Prep Time:

15

Cook Time:

17

Total Time:

35

Yields:

24
pinwheels

Course:
Dessert, Appetizer, Breakfast

Cuisine:
American

These Easy Eggnog Pinwheels are the perfect holiday treat. Flaky crescent rolls filled with a creamy, spiced eggnog mixture, topped with a sweet glaze and fresh nutmeg.

Ingredients

8 oz cream cheese, at room temperature
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon rum extract
1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg (preferably freshly grated)
2 cans (8 oz each) Pillsbury® refrigerated crescent dinner rolls
1 cup powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar)
1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened at room temperature
1 1/2 tablespoons milk (plus more, as needed)
Freshly grated nutmeg, for garnish

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a medium mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, rum extract, and ground nutmeg until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Unroll both cans of crescent dough. Separate each package into two long rectangles. Firmly press the perforations in each rectangle to seal them completely, creating four 12×4-inch rectangles.
Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over the top of each of the four dough rectangles.
Starting from one of the short sides, carefully roll up each rectangle tightly. Press the final edge firmly to seal the roll.
Using a sharp serrated knife, cut each rolled dough log into 6 even slices (approximately 1/2-inch thick). Place the pinwheel slices, cut-side down, on an ungreased baking sheet, leaving some space between each.
Bake for 12 to 17 minutes, or until the edges of the pinwheels are golden brown and the filling is set.
Remove the pinwheels from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
While the pinwheels cool, prepare the icing. In a small bowl, combine the powdered sugar, softened butter, and 1 tablespoon of milk. Whisk until smooth. Add more milk, a teaspoon at a time, until the icing reaches a thin, drizzly consistency.
Drizzle the prepared icing over the cooled eggnog pinwheels. For an extra festive touch, grate fresh nutmeg directly over the iced pinwheels just before serving.
Store any remaining pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Keywords:
eggnog pinwheels, holiday baking, crescent roll dessert, Christmas treat, easy dessert recipe