Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs

Crispy, golden puff pastry filled with creamy cheese, tangy cranberries, and savory herbs – these Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs are the perfect quick appetizer. This easy recipe is ideal for holiday parties, brunch, or a delightful snack. Whether you’re looking for quick breakfast ideas, easy dinner appetizers, or fun food for gatherings, this recipe is a must-try!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 35 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings.
• Versatile Flavor Profile: The combination of creamy cheese and tart cranberries creates a unique taste that pleases many palates.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: These pinwheels are great for holiday parties, brunches, or even as a midday snack.
• Customizable Fillings: Feel free to switch up the herbs or add other ingredients based on your preferences.
• Visual Appeal: Their spiral shape and golden color make them an eye-catching addition to any platter.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the delicious world of Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy base for even baking and prevents sticking when lined with parchment paper.
• Parchment paper: Ensures easy removal of pinwheels after baking while preventing mess.
• Rolling pin: Helps in evenly rolling out the puff pastry without tearing it.

Ingredients

For the Pinwheels

• 1 sheet puff pastry
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup cranberry sauce or 1/3 cup chopped dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (parsley or rosemary), chopped
• 1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water (egg wash)

How to Make Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. This setup ensures that your pinwheels bake evenly and do not stick.

Step 2: Roll Out the Puff Pastry

Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Make sure to press out any creases so that it rolls out smoothly.

Step 3: Spread the Cream Cheese

Spread the softened cream cheese evenly over the puff pastry. Leave a small border around the edges to prevent spilling when rolling.

Step 4: Add Cranberry Filling

Sprinkle either cranberry sauce or chopped dried cranberries along with crumbled feta cheese evenly across the cream cheese layer.

Step 5: Incorporate Fresh Herbs

Add the chopped fresh herbs over the filling. Choose parsley or rosemary based on your flavor preference.

Step 6: Roll Up the Pastry

Starting from one long edge, roll the pastry tightly into a log shape. Once rolled, slice it into 1-inch pieces using a sharp knife.

Step 7: Prepare for Baking

Place each pinwheel cut side up on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure they have enough space between them for even cooking.

Step 8: Bake Until Golden

Brush the tops of each pinwheel with egg wash. Bake in your preheated oven for about 18–22 minutes or until they are golden brown and puffed up beautifully.

Enjoy your deliciously easy Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs!

How to Serve Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs

Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs are versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet evening at home, these pinwheels will impress everyone.

As a Party Appetizer

• Serve alongside a selection of dips like hummus or tzatziki for a flavorful spread.
• Arrange on a platter with fresh vegetables like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers for a colorful display.

With a Fresh Salad

• Pair with a simple green salad dressed in olive oil and balsamic vinegar to complement the creaminess of the pinwheels.
• A fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors.

For Brunch

• Offer as part of a brunch buffet alongside quiches and fruit tarts.
• Serve with coffee, tea, or sparkling water infused with fresh herbs for an elegant touch.

As a Snack

• Enjoy them warm right out of the oven for the best flavor experience.
• Pack in lunchboxes for quick snacks that are both satisfying and delicious.

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 enhance your recipe.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Using fresh herbs and quality cream cheese will elevate the flavor significantly.
• Keep Puff Pastry Cold: Ensure your puff pastry is chilled before rolling to achieve maximum flakiness when baked.
• Spread Evenly: Distributing the filling evenly prevents clumping and ensures every bite is balanced in flavor.
• Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to mix in other ingredients such as spinach or nuts for added texture and taste.
• Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on your pinwheels while baking; remove them when they’re golden brown for best results.

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

These pinwheels pair beautifully with various side dishes that complement their flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad enhances the richness of the pinwheels while adding freshness to your meal.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted in olive oil provide a hearty side that balances out the lightness of the pinwheels.
3. Cheese Platter: Include assorted cheeses like gouda or brie, which can create interesting flavor combinations when enjoyed with the pinwheels.
4. Fruit Skewers: Fresh fruit skewers add sweetness and color, making them an appealing side dish option.
5. Garlic Breadsticks: Crunchy breadsticks provide texture contrast and can be dipped into sauces alongside the pinwheels.
6. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad can add nutrition and substance to your meal while maintaining a light profile.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs, it’s essential to avoid some common pitfalls that can affect the taste and presentation.

• Not Thawing Puff Pastry Properly: Always ensure your puff pastry is fully thawed before use. This helps it roll out easily and puff up beautifully while baking.
• Skipping the Egg Wash: Applying an egg wash gives your pinwheels a golden color and shiny finish. Don’t skip this step for the best visual appeal!
• Overfilling: It’s tempting to add extra filling, but too much can lead to messy pinwheels that are difficult to slice. Stick to the recommended amounts for perfect rolls.
• Ignoring Baking Time: Keep an eye on your pinwheels as they bake. Oven temperatures can vary, so check them a few minutes before the suggested time to avoid burning.
• Rushing the Cooling Process: Allow your pinwheels to cool slightly before serving. This makes them easier to handle and enhances the flavors as they settle.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs

• Wrap individual pinwheels in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30 seconds at a time until warm, taking care not to overcook.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes, flipping halfway.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs.

Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the filling and assemble the pinwheels ahead of time. Just refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake.

What can I substitute for feta cheese?

If you want a different flavor, try using goat cheese or a vegan cheese alternative that crumbles well.

How do I customize my Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs?

You can add nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch or use different herbs like thyme or dill based on your preference.

Are these pinwheels suitable for parties?

Absolutely! They are easy to make and serve, making them perfect appetizers for any gathering.

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried cranberries?

Yes! If using fresh cranberries, consider cooking them down with sugar to create a sauce-like consistency before adding them.

Final Thoughts

Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs are not only delicious but also versatile. Perfect as appetizers or snacks, they can easily be customized by adding ingredients like nuts or different herbs. Try this recipe at your next gathering; it’s sure to impress!