Name: Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs Bliss
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 sheet Puff Pastry (thawed); 8 oz Cream Cheese (softened); 1 cup Cranberries (dried or fresh); 4 oz Feta Cheese (crumbled); 2 tbsp Fresh Herbs (e.g., Parsley, Thyme, Rosemary); 1 Egg (for wash); 1/2 cup Chopped Nuts; 4 oz Goat Cheese (optional substitute for feta); 2 tbsp Additional Herbs (e.g., Dill, Chives)

The aroma of butter and herbs mingled in the air brings me right back to family holidays, where finger foods stole the show. Among them, my favorite was always the Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs. These vibrant little bites are not only a feast for the eyes, but they also pack a tangy punch that dances in your mouth. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy brunch with friends, they’re surprisingly simple to make yet impressively delicious. Plus, they can be prepared ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy the celebration without being stuck in the kitchen. Who doesn’t love that? So, what will you pair these delightful pinwheels with at your next gathering?

Why Are These Pinwheels a Must-Try?

Festive and Fun: Each bite of these Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs bursts with vibrant flavors, making them the perfect festive appetizer for any gathering.
Effortless Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice cooks can create these impressive treats without stress.
Make-Ahead Magic: Easily prepped in advance, these pinwheels save you time, allowing you to enjoy your guests’ company without fussing in the kitchen.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Whether served at brunch or holiday parties, their creamy, tangy filling and flaky exterior are bound to impress everyone.
Versatile Flavor: Feel free to swap out feta for goat cheese or add nuts to give these pinwheels a personal twist—endless variations await!
Pair them with a refreshing yogurt dip or a side salad to elevate your appetizer game and make your celebration even more special.

Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs Ingredients

For the Pinwheels

Puff Pastry – provides structure and flakiness; use thawed sheets for convenience.
Cream Cheese – adds creaminess to the filling; ensure it’s softened for easier mixing.
Cranberries – offers tartness; both dried or fresh can be used; if using fresh, chop and sweeten them optionally.
Feta Cheese – contributes a salty, tangy flavor to enhance the pinwheels; crumbled is preferred.
Fresh Herbs (Parsley, Thyme, or Rosemary) – imparts fresh, aromatic notes; use any or a mix of your favorite herbs.
Egg (for wash) – gives a golden finish while baking; use a beaten egg for the wash.

Optional Extras

Chopped Nuts – consider adding for an extra layer of flavor and texture in the filling.
Goat Cheese – swap with feta for a different tangy flavor if desired.
Additional Herbs – feel free to incorporate other herbs like dill or chives for diverse flavor profiles.

These Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs are not only easy to make, but they also promise a delightful burst of festive flavors that you and your guests will love!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs

Step 1: Prepare Puff Pastry
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Unroll a thawed sheet of puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Use a rolling pin to smooth out any creases and ensure it remains a rectangular shape. The pastry should be soft and pliable, ready for the delicious filling you’ll create.

Step 2: Make Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese with crumbled feta and your choice of fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary. Blend these ingredients together using a fork or an electric mixer until the mixture is smooth and creamy, creating a lovely filling for your pinwheels.

Step 3: Assemble Pinwheels
Spread the creamy filling evenly over the prepared puff pastry, ensuring you cover the entire surface. Next, sprinkle a generous amount of cranberries over the filling for that burst of tartness. Carefully roll the pastry from one long edge into a tight log, sealing the filling inside with each turn.

Step 4: Slice and Arrange
With a sharp knife, slice the log into ½-inch thick rounds, revealing the beautiful swirls of filling in each piece. Arrange the pinwheel slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they have some space between them. This will allow them to puff up beautifully in the oven without sticking together.

Step 5: Bake
Brush the tops of the pinwheels with a beaten egg for a lovely golden finish. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes. Keep an eye on them until they are puffed up and golden brown, filling your kitchen with a delightful aroma that hints at the tasty treat to come.

Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once baked to perfection, remove the pinwheels from the oven and allow them to cool slightly on the baking sheet. The Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs should be served warm, where their flaky texture and creamy filling can be fully enjoyed. Place them on a serving platter and watch them disappear!

Make Ahead Options

These Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs are ideal for those busy days when meal prep is essential! You can prepare the filling (cream cheese, feta, and herbs) up to 24 hours ahead of time; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. Additionally, you can roll the pastry log and slice it up to 3 days in advance; just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, brush the slices with egg wash and bake directly from the fridge for perfectly golden pinwheels. This way, you’ll have a delicious appetizer ready to impress your guests without spending all day in the kitchen!

How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs

Fridge: Store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure they’re fully cooled before sealing to keep them fresh and maintain their flakiness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unbaked pinwheels on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating: To enjoy leftover baked pinwheels, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10 minutes, ensuring they regain their crispness.

Room Temperature: If serving at a gathering, keep pinwheels at room temperature for no more than 2 hours to ensure food safety and taste.

What to Serve with Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs

Imagine a festive gathering filled with laughter, merry conversation, and the enticing aroma of delicious food wafting through the air as you prepare for a delightful meal to accompany your pinwheels.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery richness and smooth texture create a wonderful contrast to the flaky pinwheels, making each bite truly comforting.
Crisp Garden Salad: A fresh mix of greens, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette adds a vibrant crunch that complements the creamy filling of the pinwheels.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their caramelized flavor and crispy edges bring a hearty element to the table, harmonizing with the savory feta and tart cranberries.
Herbed Quinoa: Light and fluffy, this grain dish enhances the festive vibe while offering a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with creamy appetizers.
Garlic Parmesan Breadsticks: These warm, cheesy delights contrast the pinwheels’ freshness by adding a chewy element and irresistible garlicky notes.
Yogurt-Based Dip: A cool, tangy dip serves as a refreshing counterpart to the savory pinwheels, enhancing their flavor with a creamy counterpart.
Sparkling Cider: A fizzy drink with a hint of sweetness celebrates the joyful occasion, balancing out the savory flavors of the pinwheels and any side dishes served.

These pairing options create a memorable dining experience that ensures your Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs shine at your next gathering!

Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs Variations

Feel free to let your creativity run wild and make these pinwheels your own with delightful twists!

Goat Cheese: Swap feta for goat cheese for a unique tangy flavor that adds depth to the filling.
Chopped Nuts: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch and added richness.
Additional Herbs: Experiment with dill or chives alongside your favorite herbs for an aromatic twist.
Spicy Kick: Add a dash of red pepper flakes to the filling for a delightful heat that contrasts with the sweetness of cranberries.
Caramelized Onions: Adding caramelized onions introduces a sweet and savory layer, elevating the flavor profile beautifully.
Fruit Variations: Mix in dried cherries or apricots for a sweet surprise that pairs wonderfully with the creaminess.
Pesto Swirl: For a fresh note, spread a layer of pesto on the pastry before adding the filling for a vibrant flavor boost.
Herbed Cream Cheese: Mix in some garlic or herb-infused cream cheese to elevate the base flavor and bring a Mediterranean flair.

These variations not only allow you to customize your Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs, but they can also complement delightful pairings like a refreshing yogurt-based dip or a colorful salad with citrus vinaigrette for a perfect appetizer spread. Embrace the joy of home cooking and make this festive treat truly your own!

Expert Tips for Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels

Chill Before Slicing: Chill the rolled log of pastry before slicing to make handling easier. This helps maintain its shape and ensures neat edges.
Choose Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh herbs and high-quality cream cheese for the best flavor. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in the taste of your pinwheels.
Avoid Overfilling: Be cautious not to overfill the pastry with the cream cheese mixture and cranberries. Too much filling can lead to messy pinwheels that don’t hold together.
Golden Finish: Using the egg wash ensures a beautiful, golden finish on your Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels. Don’t skip this step for maximum visual appeal!
Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on your pinwheels toward the end of the baking time. Ovens vary, so remove them once they’re golden brown and puffy to avoid over-baking.
Creative Variations: Feel free to experiment with other cheeses or nuts to personalize your pinwheels, allowing you to create unique flavors that suit your taste!

Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs Recipe FAQs

What type of cranberries should I use?
You can use either dried or fresh cranberries for these pinwheels. If you’re using fresh cranberries, be sure to chop them and consider sweetening them slightly, as fresh ones can be quite tart. Dried cranberries, on the other hand, offer an ideal sweetness that complements the creamy filling beautifully.

How should I store leftover pinwheels?
Store any leftover Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they have cooled completely before sealing to maintain their flakiness and fresh taste. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in a warm oven to bring back that delightful crunch!

Can I freeze the prepared pinwheels?
Absolutely! To freeze unbaked pinwheels, arrange them on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, you can bake them straight from frozen, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time for a perfect finish!

What should I do if the pastry tears while rolling?
If you find that the puff pastry tears while rolling, don’t panic! Simply take a small piece of extra dough, press it over the tear, and smooth it out. Make sure to roll gently to prevent more tears. This happens often, but with a little care, your pinwheels will still turn out beautifully!

Are these pinwheels safe for dietary restrictions?
Yes! These pinwheels are vegetarian-friendly. However, if you’re hosting someone with dairy allergies, you can try using dairy-free cream cheese and a suitable cheese alternative. Always verify the ingredient labels to ensure they meet dietary needs, and feel free to customize the herbs to cater to different tastes and preferences.