As the warm aroma of baked pastries fills the air, I can’t help but feel a surge of excitement for the festive gatherings ahead. These Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs are more than just a pretty appetizer—they’re a delightful fusion of creamy and tangy flavors beautifully wrapped in flaky puff pastry. What makes them even better? They’re effortless to prepare and perfect for making ahead, allowing you to enjoy the moments that matter most without being stuck in the kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or simply looking to elevate your brunch spread, these pinwheels promise to impress your guests and satisfy your craving for homemade goodness. So, are you ready to whip up this crowd-pleaser that’s as fun to make as it is to eat?
Why You’ll Love These Pinwheels
Simplicity at Its Best: With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, these pinwheels are a breeze to prepare, making them perfect for both novice and seasoned cooks.
Versatile Options: Feel free to swap in your favorite cheeses or herbs, like the tangy goat cheese or fresh dill, to create a personalized touch.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare these delightful treats in advance, so you can spend more time mingling with guests and less time in the kitchen.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of tart cranberries, creamy cheeses, and fragrant herbs creates a flavor explosion that’s sure to please everyone at your next gathering.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday party or a casual brunch, these pinwheels are a festive addition to any spread. For more tasty ideas, check out my Baked Chicken Cheese and Broccoli Potato Cheese recipes!
Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels Ingredients
• Get ready to create a festive delight with these Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels!
For the Pastry
- Puff Pastry – Use thawed, pre-rolled puff pastry for convenient, flaky layers.
For the Filling
- Cream Cheese – Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing and creamy goodness.
- Cranberries – Use fresh for a vibrant punch or dried for a chewy texture.
- Feta Cheese – Crumbled feta balances the sweetness of cranberries with its savory flavor.
- Fresh Herbs (Parsley, Thyme, or Rosemary) – These add depth and freshness; mix and match for your preferred taste.
For the Wash
- Egg – Beaten egg enhances the golden-brown color of the pinwheels while baking.
Feel free to play with these ingredients to make your own signature twist on this delightful appetizer!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs
Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a lightly floured surface, unroll your thawed puff pastry and gently roll it out to smooth any creases. This step ensures a uniform thickness throughout, which helps your Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels bake evenly for a delightful texture.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and crumbled feta with your choice of fresh herbs. Use a fork or a spatula to blend the ingredients until smooth and creamy, ensuring that each bite will be bursting with flavor. This filling will provide the perfect contrast to the sweetness of the cranberries in your pinwheels.
Step 3: Assemble the Pinwheels
Spread the creamy mixture evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a small border around the edges to prevent overflow during baking. Next, sprinkle your cranberries liberally on top of the filling. The combination of tart cranberries and the rich cheeses will create a delicious balance in your Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels.
Step 4: Roll the Pastry
Starting from one long edge of the puff pastry, roll it tightly into a log, making sure the filling stays inside. When you reach the edge, pinch it to seal the log firm. This step is crucial for keeping the filling secure, allowing the pinwheels to hold their shape during baking.
Step 5: Slice and Arrange
With a sharp knife, carefully slice the log into ½-inch pieces. Arrange these slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each pinwheel to allow for puffing. A neat arrangement will help achieve that golden, flaky look that everyone loves in these Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels.
Step 6: Brush with Egg Wash
In a small bowl, beat an egg to create your egg wash. Gently brush the tops of each pinwheel with this wash, ensuring they are evenly coated. This step will give your pinwheels a beautiful golden-brown finish once baked, enhancing their festive appeal.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake the pinwheels for 15–20 minutes, or until they are puffed and golden brown. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes for perfect doneness. Once baked, allow your Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels to cool slightly before serving, offering a warm bite that will impress your guests.
What to Serve with Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs
These delicious pinwheels can easily be the highlight of your gathering, so why not elevate the experience with complementary dishes?
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery, rich texture of mashed potatoes provides a perfect contrast to the flaky pastry, making for a comforting bite.
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Simple Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette adds freshness, balancing the richness of the pinwheels beautifully.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies bring warmth and earthiness to your spread, enhancing the festive feel and complementing the flavors in the pinwheels.
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Charcuterie Board: This allows guests to nibble on meats, cheeses, and fruits, creating a delightful variety that pairs well with the creamy and tart elements of the pinwheels.
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Yogurt-Based Dip: A zesty yogurt dip makes a refreshing accompaniment, providing a tangy counterbalance to the savory and sweet notes of your pinwheels.
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Sparkling Cider: As a bubbly non-alcoholic drink option, sparkling cider adds a festive sparkle to your meal while complementing the sweet and tangy flavors in the pinwheels.
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Mini Quiches: Offering a savory alternative, mini quiches filled with herbs and veggies make for a great finger food that pairs well with the pinwheel experience.
Serve these alongside your cranberry cream cheese pinwheels for an inviting and well-rounded spread that will have everyone coming back for more!
Expert Tips for Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels
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Chill for Ease: Chill the rolled log for up to 30 minutes before slicing. This makes it easier to cut clean, even pinwheels without squishing the filling.
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Fresh or Dried?: Don’t hesitate to use dried cranberries if fresh ones are out of season. They add sweetness and texture, making your pinwheels equally delicious.
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Herb Mix-ins: Experiment with fresh herbs like dill or chives for varied flavor profiles. Just make sure the herbs complement the tangy feta in your pinwheels.
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Golden Finish: Ensure the egg wash is applied evenly to enhance the golden-brown color of your pinwheels. A careful brush can make a big difference in presentation.
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Serving Warm: For the best taste, serve your cranberry cream cheese pinwheels warm; they retain their flaky texture better this way. If reheating, opt for the oven for optimal results.
Make Ahead Options
These Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs are fantastic for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy stress-free entertaining! You can prepare the pinwheel logs up to 24 hours in advance. Simply assemble and roll them up, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. To maintain their quality and ensure a flaky finish, keep them chilled and bake only when ready to serve. When it’s time to impress your guests, slice the chilled log into pieces, brush with egg wash, and bake according to the instructions for 15–20 minutes. This way, you’ll have delicious, fresh pinwheels with minimal last-minute effort!
How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels
Fridge: Store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain their flaky texture, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes before serving.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze uncooked pinwheels on a parchment-lined sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Bake straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating: If reheating cooked pinwheels, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes, ensuring they’re heated through and the pastry remains crisp.
Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the cranberry cream cheese pinwheels in advance and store them in the refrigerator or freezer until ready to enjoy, making entertaining a breeze!
Variations & Substitutions for Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels
Feel free to explore and customize these delightful pinwheels to suit your taste buds and dietary needs!
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Fresh vs. Dried Cranberries: Swap out fresh cranberries for dried ones to add a chewy texture and deeper sweetness. This is an easy adjustment that works perfectly any time of year.
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Cheese Swap: Goat Cheese: Replace feta with creamy goat cheese for a tangier flavor. Goat cheese enhances the tartness and adds a unique touch to every bite.
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Herb Variations: Chives or Dill: Use fresh chives or dill instead of the traditional herbs for bright, fresh notes. Herbs can transform the flavor profile, making it more vibrant and unique.
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Nutty Addition: Chopped Walnuts or Pecans: Toss in some chopped nuts for added crunch and richness. They provide a pleasing contrast in texture and further enhance the flavor.
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Spicy Kick: Red Pepper Flakes: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for a spicy twist. This add-in gives a surprising warmth that elevates the overall flavor experience beautifully.
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Sweet Glaze: Honey Drizzle: A drizzle of honey on top before serving adds an irresistible sweet finish that complements the savory components of the filling.
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Mini Pinwheels: Bite-Sized Versions: Roll the pastry tighter and cut smaller slices for bite-sized pinwheels, perfect for appetizers or serving at parties.
To make these pinwheels even more delightful, consider pairing them with options like my Chicken Mac Cheese or serving them alongside a refreshing salad for a balanced meal. Enjoy your culinary adventure!
Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs Recipe FAQs
How do I know when the cranberries are ripe?
Absolutely! For fresh cranberries, look for those that are bright red and firm. Avoid any that are soft or have dark spots, as these may indicate overripeness. If using dried cranberries, select ones that are plump and moist, steering clear of any that appear hard or excessively dried out.
What is the best way to store leftover pinwheels?
Very! Store any leftover Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For optimal freshness, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes before serving; this will help them regain their flakiness.
Can I freeze these pinwheels?
Absolutely! To freeze, arrange uncooked pinwheels on a parchment-lined baking sheet and place them in the freezer until firm. Transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag and store for up to 2 months. When baked straight from the freezer, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time, and they’ll still turn out deliciously crisp!
What should I do if my pastry doesn’t puff up?
No worries! If your pinwheels don’t puff up as expected, it might be due to the dough being too warm or overworked. To avoid this, make sure your puff pastry is chilled but not too cold when you start, and handle it gently to preserve the layers. If all else fails, they’ll still taste wonderful—no one will mind!
Are these pinwheels suitable for vegetarians?
Very! This recipe for Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels is vegetarian-friendly, featuring creamy cheese and cranberries without any meat ingredients. If you’re concerned about allergies, just make sure to check that your specific cheese choices don’t contain any unwanted dairy additives.
How can I make these pinwheels gluten-free?
Absolutely! To create gluten-free Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels, you can use gluten-free puff pastry available in stores or make your own from a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to follow any specific instructions for handling the gluten-free pastry, as it can differ from traditional options in terms of texture and baking time.
Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a lightly floured surface, unroll your thawed puff pastry and gently roll it out to smooth any creases.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and crumbled feta with your choice of fresh herbs. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Spread the creamy mixture evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle cranberries on top.
- Starting from one long edge, roll the pastry tightly into a log and pinch the edge to seal.
- Slice the log into ½-inch pieces and arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Create an egg wash by beating an egg. Brush the tops of each pinwheel with this wash.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
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