Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs

These Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs are a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making them an ideal appetizer for any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a festive holiday party, a casual brunch, or just looking for a tasty snack, these pinwheels will impress your guests with their creamy filling and flaky pastry. Their vibrant colors and rich taste ensure they stand out on any table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these delicious pinwheels in no time.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of cream cheese, feta, and cranberries creates a flavor profile that everyone will love.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect for holidays, parties, or even as a light snack at home.
• Visually Stunning: The bright colors of the cranberries and fresh herbs make for an eye-catching presentation.
• Make Ahead Option: These pinwheels can be prepared in advance and baked just before serving.

Tools and Preparation

To make these cranberry cream cheese pinwheels with feta and herbs, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process and enhance your overall experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Rolling pin: Ensures your puff pastry is rolled evenly for uniform cooking.
• Mixing bowl: A must-have for combining ingredients smoothly without mess.
• Baking sheet: Provides a stable surface for baking your pinwheels to golden perfection.

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Ingredients

For these delicious cranberry cream cheese pinwheels with feta and herbs, gather the following ingredients:

For the Pinwheels

• 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)

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 even the surface.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese with crumbled feta and chopped herbs 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 cranberries on top.

Step 4: Roll and Slice

Roll the pastry tightly into a log starting from the long edge. Slice it into ½-inch pieces.

Step 5: Bake

Arrange the slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush each slice with egg wash. Bake in an oven preheated to 400°F (200°C) for about 15–20 minutes until golden brown and puffed. Let cool slightly before serving.

How to Serve Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs

These cranberry cream cheese pinwheels with feta and herbs are versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Whether for a holiday gathering or a casual brunch, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your appetizer experience.

On a Charcuterie Board

• Arrange the pinwheels alongside meats, cheeses, and fruits for a visually appealing platter that encourages mingling.

With Dipping Sauces

• Serve with a tangy balsamic glaze or a sweet fruit chutney to enhance the flavors of the pinwheels.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle additional chopped herbs like parsley or thyme on top before serving for an extra pop of color and flavor.

As Part of a Buffet

• Include these pinwheels on a buffet spread during parties, allowing guests to help themselves as they mingle.

Paired with Light Salads

• Serve alongside a crisp salad, such as arugula with lemon vinaigrette, to balance the richness of the cream cheese.

On Individual Plates

• Present individual servings on small plates for more formal gatherings, enhancing the dining experience.

How to Perfect Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs

Creating perfect cranberry cream cheese pinwheels takes just a few tips. Follow these suggestions for the best results:

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and quality cream cheese make a significant difference in flavor.
• Thaw puff pastry properly: Ensure puff pastry is fully thawed before rolling out for even baking.
• Avoid overfilling: Spread the filling evenly but leave a border so that the pinwheels can seal properly.
• Slice evenly: Cut the log into equal pieces for consistent baking and presentation.
• Adjust baking time: Keep an eye on them while baking; ovens vary, and you want them perfectly golden brown.
• Let cool slightly: Allow pinwheels to cool briefly after baking to set the filling before serving.

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

Complement your cranberry cream cheese pinwheels with delicious side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here are some excellent options:

1. Mixed Green Salad – A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and vinaigrette adds freshness.
2. Vegetable Crudités – Fresh veggies like carrots, celery, and bell peppers served with hummus offer crunch.
3. Stuffed Mini Peppers – Sweet mini peppers stuffed with cream cheese or herbed goat cheese provide vibrant color.
4. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and parsley can be refreshing alongside pinwheels.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Slightly sweet roasted sweet potatoes make for a hearty contrast to the creamy pinwheels.
6. Cheese Platter – A selection of mild cheeses pairs well and enhances the overall tasting experience.
7. Fruit Skewers – Colorful fruit skewers add sweetness and are easy to grab at parties.
8. Pita Chips – Crunchy pita chips can serve as another dipping vehicle alongside your pinwheels.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can make your cranberry cream cheese pinwheels with feta and herbs even better.

• Skipping the Thawing: Not allowing the puff pastry to thaw completely can result in uneven baking. Always ensure it’s fully thawed for a flaky texture.
• Overfilling the Pinwheels: Adding too much filling can lead to messy pinwheels. Keep the filling layer thin to ensure they roll properly and bake evenly.
• Neglecting Egg Wash: Skipping the egg wash can cause your pinwheels to look dull. Brush them before baking for a beautiful golden-brown finish.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Baking in an unpreheated oven can affect cooking time. Always preheat your oven to ensure consistent baking results.
• Using Old Ingredients: Stale cream cheese or expired herbs can ruin flavor. Always check ingredient freshness before starting your recipe.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs

• Place uncooked pinwheels on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs

• Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat for about 30 seconds, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat; cover and heat for 3-5 minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about cranberry cream cheese pinwheels with feta and herbs.

Can I use different herbs in my pinwheels?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with herbs like basil or dill for different flavor profiles.

How do I make cranberry cream cheese pinwheels with feta and herbs ahead of time?

You can prepare the filling and store it separately. Assemble your pinwheels just before baking for best results.

Can I substitute the feta cheese?

Absolutely! Try using goat cheese or a non-dairy alternative if you prefer.

What occasions are these cranberry cream cheese pinwheels suitable for?

These delicious appetizers are perfect for holidays, parties, and casual brunches!

Final Thoughts

These cranberry cream cheese pinwheels with feta and herbs are not only easy to make but also bring festive flair to any gathering. Their versatility allows you to customize fillings based on your preferences. Give these delightful bites a try, and enjoy their creamy, tangy goodness!