Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs
Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs are the delightful answer to anyone looking for a quick, elegant appetizer that can turn any gathering into a celebration. Picture this: buttery puff pastry rolled around a creamy cheese mixture, speckled with sweet cranberries and herbs. These pinwheels are not just visually appealing; they pack a flavor punch that will leave your guests asking for the recipe. Whether it’s a cozy family brunch, a holiday party, or a simple snack, this recipe fits seamlessly into any occasion.
Why you’ll love this dish
These pinwheels are incredibly versatile and perfect for a variety of occasions. They are fast to prepare, budget-friendly, and a big hit with both kids and adults. Imagine serving them at your next gathering—guests will marvel at your culinary skills while you bask in the glory of how simple they were to make. Plus, the combination of creamy cheese, tangy feta, and sweet-tart cranberries is downright addictive.
“These pinwheels disappeared at my holiday party! Everyone couldn’t get enough of the creamy filling and the perfect crunch of the puff pastry.”
How this recipe comes together
Making Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels is straightforward and takes just a few steps. You start by rolling out the puff pastry, then mix your cheeses and herbs in a bowl, spread it all out, top with cranberries, roll it up, slice, and bake them until golden. It’s a quick process that results in a beautiful and delicious appetizer ready for any table.
What you’ll need
To create these delightful pinwheels, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup cranberries (dried or fresh, chopped)
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (choose between parsley, thyme, or rosemary), chopped
- 1 egg, beaten (this will be for the egg wash)
If you’re in a pinch, you can swap the feta cheese for goat cheese, or replace the cranberries with chopped apples for a different flavor profile.
Step-by-step instructions
- First, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s ready for your creations.
- Unroll the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and gently roll it out to even the surface.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with the crumbled feta and chopped herbs. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the puff pastry, making sure to leave a small border all around.
- Next, sprinkle the chopped cranberries evenly on top of the cheese mixture.
- Starting from the long edge, roll the pastry tightly into a log shape.
- Slice the log into ½-inch pieces and arrange these slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Brush the tops of the pinwheels with the beaten egg for that beautiful golden finish.
- Bake in your preheated oven for 15–20 minutes or until they puff up and turn golden brown.
- Allow them to cool slightly before serving, and watch them vanish!
Best ways to enjoy it
These pinwheels are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven but can also be served warm or at room temperature. Consider pairing them with a light salad for a fun brunch or serving them alongside a sweet dipping sauce, such as a honey mustard or tangy balsamic glaze. You could even add a cheese board loaded with assorted cheeses and nuts for an impressive display!
Storage and reheating tips
If you happen to have leftovers (though it’s unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes, until they are warm and crispy again. While we don’t recommend freezing these pinwheels due to the texture of the puff pastry, you can prepare them up to the baking step and freeze them, then bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Pro chef tips
For the best results, ensure your puff pastry is well-thawed but still cold before rolling. This helps achieve that perfect flaky texture. Additionally, feel free to play with the herb combinations; a touch of dill can give a beautiful flavor that complements the cream cheese and feta beautifully.
Creative twists
Looking to shake things up? Try adding cooked spinach for a pop of color and flavor. You can also experiment by substituting the cranberries with fig spread or even sautéed mushrooms for a savory version. If you’re in a festive spirit, a sprinkle of cinnamon and nutmeg can add a warm holiday twist that’s sure to impress.
Your questions answered
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How long does it take to prep? Preparation time is about 20 minutes, with baking taking an additional 15-20 minutes.
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Can I make substitutions? Absolutely! Goat cheese can be a lovely alternative to feta, and feel free to swap out the herbs based on your preferences.
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How do I ensure my pinwheels don’t become soggy? Using well-thawed and cold puff pastry helps, but cooking them until golden brown will retain their crispness. Enjoy your cranberry cream cheese pinwheels as a delightful treat that will elevate any occasion!
Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed Ensure it is well-thawed but still cold before rolling.
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened Use a full-fat version for a creamier texture.
- 1/2 cup cranberries (dried or fresh, chopped) Sweet-tart cranberries work best.
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled Can substitute with goat cheese.
- 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, or rosemary), chopped Feel free to mix and match.
- 1 each egg, beaten For egg wash, to get a golden finish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Unroll the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and gently roll it out to even the surface.
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese with crumbled feta and chopped herbs. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a small border.
- Evenly sprinkle chopped cranberries on top of the cheese mixture.
- Starting from the long edge, roll the pastry tightly into a log shape.
- Slice the log into ½-inch pieces and arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Brush the tops of the pinwheels with the beaten egg.
Cooking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes or until they puff up and turn golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
