Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs Recipe
Introduction
Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs are a delightful appetizer that combines creamy cheese, tangy cranberries, and fresh herbs wrapped in flaky puff pastry. Perfect for festive gatherings or a savory snack, these pinwheels are as pretty as they are delicious.
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 (parsley, thyme, or rosemary), chopped
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Step 1: Unroll the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Roll out slightly to even the surface.
- Step 2: In a bowl, mix the cream cheese with crumbled feta and chopped herbs until smooth.
- Step 3: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the pastry, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle the chopped cranberries on top.
- Step 4: Roll the pastry tightly into a log from the long edge. Slice the log into ½-inch pieces.
- Step 5: Arrange the slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet and brush the tops with the beaten egg to create a golden finish.
- Step 6: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes, until the pinwheels are golden brown and puffed. Let cool slightly before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Use fresh herbs like dill or basil for a different flavor profile.
- Substitute goat cheese for cream cheese to add tanginess.
- Add a sprinkle of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for extra crunch.
- If using fresh cranberries, lightly toss them in sugar before adding for a balanced sweetness.
Storage
Store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness. These pinwheels are best enjoyed fresh but can also be frozen before baking; just thaw completely before baking.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the rolled pinwheel log, wrap it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before slicing and baking. This saves time on serving day.
Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh or dried?
You can use frozen cranberries, but make sure to chop them and pat dry to avoid excess moisture in the pastry.
PrintCranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs Recipe
Delightful Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels combining flaky puff pastry with a creamy blend of cream cheese, feta, and fresh herbs, accented by sweet and tart cranberries. Perfect as an elegant appetizer or snack, these golden-baked pinwheels deliver a harmonious balance of creamy, tangy, and herbal flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Yield: 12–15 pinwheels 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Pastry
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
Filling
- 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
Egg Wash
- 1 egg, beaten
Instructions
- Prepare Pastry: Unroll the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and gently roll it out slightly to create an even surface, ensuring smooth layering for the filling.
- Make Filling: In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, crumbled feta, and chopped fresh herbs. Mix thoroughly until you achieve a smooth, uniform filling.
- Spread Filling: Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over the surface of the pastry sheet, leaving a small border all around. Then sprinkle the chopped cranberries evenly over the filling.
- Roll and Slice: Carefully roll the pastry sheet tightly from the long edge into a log shape. Using a sharp knife, slice the roll into ½-inch thick pinwheel pieces.
- Prepare for Baking: Arrange the sliced pinwheels on a parchment-lined baking sheet with some space between each. Brush the tops lightly with the beaten egg wash to achieve a beautiful golden finish.
- Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the pinwheels are puffed and golden brown on top.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the pinwheels to cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring to a serving platter for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use either fresh or dried cranberries; if dried, chopping them will help them distribute evenly.
- Fresh herbs can be customized according to your preference—parsley, thyme, or rosemary all work beautifully.
- Ensure the puff pastry is well thawed and cold for optimal puffiness and flakiness.
- These pinwheels can be served warm or at room temperature, making them suitable for parties or snacks.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute cream cheese and feta with plant-based alternatives.
Keywords: Cranberry pinwheels, cream cheese appetizer, puff pastry snacks, savory pinwheels, holiday appetizers, herb and cheese pinwheels
