These Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs are not just a delightful appetizer; they bring a festive touch to any gathering. Perfect for holidays, parties, or brunches, these pinwheels combine creamy textures and tart flavors wrapped in flaky pastry. With their vibrant colors and delicious taste, they are sure to impress your guests and become a favorite on your appetizer table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these tasty pinwheels in no time.
• Versatile Flavor Profile: The combination of cream cheese, feta, and cranberries creates a perfect balance of creamy and tangy flavors.
• Crowd-Pleasing Appetizer: These pinwheels are always a hit at gatherings, making them an ideal choice for any occasion.
• Festive Presentation: Their beautiful spirals and bright colors make them visually appealing on any platter.
• Customizable Ingredients: You can easily modify the herbs or cheese based on personal preference or what you have on hand.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your cranberry cream cheese pinwheels, gather the essential tools. Having everything ready will ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Rolling pin
• Mixing bowl
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy base for baking the pinwheels evenly.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless.
• Rolling pin: Helps to even out the puff pastry for optimal texture.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining the cheeses and herbs smoothly.

this recipe

Ingredients

For the Puff Pastry Base

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed

For the Filling

• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup cranberries, dried or fresh, chopped
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 tablespoons fresh herbs, chopped (parsley, thyme, or rosemary)

For the Egg Wash

• 1 egg, beaten

How to Make Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs

Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry

Unroll the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Roll it out slightly to ensure an even surface.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese with crumbled feta and chopped herbs. Mix until smooth.

Step 3: Assemble the Pinwheels

Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the pastry while leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle chopped cranberries on top of the mixture.

Step 4: Roll and Slice

Roll the pastry tightly into a log starting from one of the long edges. Once rolled, slice into ½-inch pieces.

Step 5: Arrange for Baking

Place the sliced pinwheels on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush each piece with beaten egg to achieve that golden finish during baking.

Step 6: Bake

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake for about 15–20 minutes or until they turn golden brown and puffed up. Let cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy your delightful cranberry cream cheese pinwheels with feta and herbs as an appetizer that’s sure to be remembered!

How to Serve Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs

These cranberry cream cheese pinwheels with feta and herbs are delightful as a festive appetizer. They can be served in various ways to enhance your holiday gatherings or brunches.

On a Charcuterie Board

• Arrange the pinwheels alongside a selection of cheeses, fruits, and nuts for an elegant presentation.

With Dipping Sauces

• Offer creamy dips, such as ranch or tzatziki, for guests who enjoy an extra burst of flavor.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle additional fresh herbs on top of the pinwheels just before serving for a pop of color and freshness.

As Part of a Buffet Spread

• Include these pinwheels on a buffet table as an easy grab-and-go option for guests during parties.

Paired with Sparkling Beverages

• Serve with sparkling water or non-alcoholic drinks to complement the flavors without overpowering them.

How to Perfect Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs

Creating the perfect cranberry cream cheese pinwheels requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality cream cheese elevate the flavor significantly.

• Thaw Puff Pastry Properly: Allow the puff pastry to thaw in the refrigerator overnight for best results. This helps maintain its flakiness.

• Avoid Overfilling: Spread the filling evenly but avoid overfilling, which can make it difficult to roll tightly.

• Slice Evenly: Use a sharp knife to slice the pinwheels into even pieces for consistent cooking and presentation.

• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the oven towards the end of baking. These pinwheels should be golden brown but not burnt.

Best Side Dishes for Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs

These pinwheels pair wonderfully with various side dishes that complement their flavors. Consider adding any of these options to your menu.

1. Garden Salad: A light salad with mixed greens adds freshness and balances the richness of the pinwheels.

2. Vegetable Crudités: Crisp vegetables served with hummus provide a healthy crunch alongside your creamy appetizers.

3. Stuffed Mini Peppers: Colorful peppers filled with cream cheese or avocado spread make for a vibrant side that pairs well.

4. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs offer heartiness that complements the lightness of the pinwheels.

5. Fruit Platter: A selection of seasonal fruits adds sweetness and contrast to the savory flavors of your dish.

6. Spinach Dip: Warm spinach dip served with pita chips is another crowd-pleasing option that goes well with these pinwheels.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can make your cranberry cream cheese pinwheels with feta and herbs a standout dish. Here are some mistakes to watch for:

• Ignoring the Puff Pastry Temperature: Using puff pastry that is too warm can lead to a soggy texture. Always ensure it’s well-thawed but cool before rolling.

• Overfilling the Pinwheels: Adding too much filling can cause the pinwheels to burst open during baking. Spread the filling evenly but leave a small border around the edges.

• Skipping the Egg Wash: Omitting the egg wash can result in dull pinwheels. Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden, shiny finish.

• Not Preheating the Oven: Baking in an unpreheated oven affects how well the pastry rises. Always preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) before baking.

• Cutting Uneven Slices: If you cut uneven slices, they may bake at different rates. Use a sharp knife and aim for uniform ½-inch pieces for even cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container.
• They will remain fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs

• Freeze uncooked pinwheels for up to 2 months.
• Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe container once solid.

Reheating Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 30 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Slightly pan-fry in a non-stick skillet over low heat for even heating.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs?

Cranberry cream cheese pinwheels with feta and herbs are savory appetizers made from puff pastry filled with creamy cheese, tangy cranberries, and fresh herbs.

Can I customize the filling?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out feta for goat cheese or use different herbs based on your preference.

How do I serve these pinwheels?

These pinwheels are perfect as finger food at parties or gatherings. Serve them warm or at room temperature on a platter.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to bake.

What should I serve with Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels?

Pair these delightful pinwheels with a fresh salad or a dipping sauce like balsamic glaze for an extra flavor boost.

Final Thoughts

Cranberry cream cheese pinwheels with feta and herbs are not only simple but also versatile, making them an ideal choice for any occasion. Their bright flavors and flaky texture make them crowd-pleasers. Feel free to customize with your favorite ingredients or herbs!

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Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

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Description

These Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs are an irresistible appetizer that will elevate any gathering. Perfect for holidays, brunches, or casual get-togethers, these pinwheels boast a delightful combination of creamy cheese, tart cranberries, and fresh herbs wrapped in flaky puff pastry. Their stunning presentation and harmonious flavors will surely impress your guests and make them a staple on your appetizer table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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 (parsley, thyme, or rosemary), chopped
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface.
2. In a mixing bowl, blend the cream cheese with crumbled feta and chopped herbs until smooth.
3. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the pastry and sprinkle chopped cranberries on top.
4. Roll the pastry tightly into a log and slice it into ½-inch pieces.
5. Arrange the pinwheels on a parchment-lined baking sheet and brush with beaten egg.
6. Bake for 15–20 minutes until golden brown and puffed up. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 pinwheel (30g)
• Calories: 90
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 120mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: Feel free to customize the filling by swapping feta for goat cheese or using different herbs based on what you have available. Serve with dipping sauces like ranch or tzatziki for added flavor.