Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs

These Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs are an easy, festive appetizer that will wow your guests at any gathering. Perfect for holidays, parties, or brunch, these pinwheels combine the creamy richness of cheese with the tartness of cranberries and the freshness of herbs. Their bright colors and flaky texture make them a standout dish that’s sure to please.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep time, these pinwheels come together quickly, making them ideal for last-minute entertaining.
• Versatile Flavor Profile: The combination of cream cheese, feta, and cranberries creates a delightful balance of flavors that can be enjoyed by everyone.
• Crowd-Pleasing Presentation: Their beautiful appearance makes them perfect for holiday gatherings or any occasion where you want to impress guests.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to swap out herbs or add other ingredients according to your taste preferences.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: These pinwheels can be made ahead of time and frozen, allowing for convenient snacking later.

Tools and Preparation

To make these delicious cranberry cream cheese pinwheels with feta and herbs, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will not only streamline your cooking process but also enhance your results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for baking your pinwheels evenly.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly without mess.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.

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Ingredients

For the Pastry Base

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed

For the Cream Cheese Filling

• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled

For the Fruity Addition

• 1/2 cup cranberries, dried or fresh, chopped

For the Fresh Herb Blend

• 2 tablespoons fresh herbs, parsley, thyme, or rosemary, chopped

For the Egg Wash

• 1 egg, beaten

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 so it’s ready for filling.

Step 2: Mix the Cream Cheese Filling

In a bowl, mix together cream cheese, crumbled feta, and chopped herbs. Stir until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Spread the Filling on the Pastry

Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the puff pastry while leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle chopped cranberries on top of the cream cheese layer.

Step 4: Roll Up the Pastry

Roll the pastry tightly into a log starting from one long edge. Once rolled up, slice into ½-inch pieces to create individual pinwheels.

Step 5: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Arrange the sliced pinwheels on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush each piece with beaten egg wash to achieve that golden color when baked.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden Brown

Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for approximately 15–20 minutes or until they are golden brown and puffed. Let cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy your vibrant and delicious cranberry cream cheese pinwheels with feta and herbs! They are sure to become a favorite at any gathering!

How to Serve Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs

Cranberry cream cheese pinwheels with feta and herbs are a delightful appetizer that can be served in various ways. These pinwheels are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a festive gathering or a casual brunch.

Pair with Fresh Vegetables

• Carrot sticks – Crisp and refreshing, they balance the creamy pinwheels.
• Cucumber slices – Light and hydrating, they add a nice crunch.

Serve with Dips

• Hummus – A creamy dip that complements the flavors of the pinwheels.
• Tzatziki – This yogurt-based sauce adds a cool, tangy element.

Accompany with Cheese Platter

• Variety of cheeses – Include options like cheddar and gouda to enhance the flavor experience.
• Crackers – Offer an assortment for added crunch and variety.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle chopped parsley or thyme on top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Use rosemary sprigs as a decorative touch on serving platters.

How to Perfect Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs

To make sure your cranberry cream cheese pinwheels turn out perfectly, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your appetizer is not only delicious but also visually appealing.

• Use softened cream cheese – This makes it easier to spread and combines well with other ingredients.
• Roll tightly – A tight roll prevents the filling from spilling out during baking.
• Chill before slicing – Refrigerating the log for 15-30 minutes helps maintain its shape when cutting.
• Brush with egg wash – This gives your pinwheels a beautiful golden color once baked.
• Experiment with herbs – Mixing different herbs can enhance flavor; try dill or basil for variety.

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

These cranberry cream cheese pinwheels pair well with several side dishes, adding variety to your appetizer spread. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Mixed Green Salad – A light salad of greens and vinaigrette balances the richness of the pinwheels.
2. Fruit Platter – Fresh fruits like grapes and apple slices provide a sweet contrast to savory flavors.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized complement the flavors beautifully.
4. Quinoa Salad – A protein-packed option that offers texture and nutty flavors alongside the pinwheels.
5. Stuffed Mini Peppers – Fill them with cream cheese or hummus for an extra bite-sized treat.
6. Mini Caprese Skewers – Combine cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil for a fresh addition to your spread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your cranberry cream cheese pinwheels with feta and herbs from good to great.

• Overmixing the Filling: Mixing the cream cheese too much can make it watery. Blend until just combined for a perfect creamy texture.

• Skipping the Egg Wash: Not brushing the pinwheels with egg wash can lead to dull, pale pastries. Always brush before baking for a golden finish.

• Not Preheating the Oven: Placing pinwheels in an unheated oven can cause uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to ensure even baking.

• Cutting Uneven Slices: Irregularly sized pinwheels can bake unevenly. Use a sharp knife and aim for uniform ½-inch slices.

• Filling Beyond the Edges: Spreading filling too close to the edges may cause leakage during baking. Leave a small border for a neat roll.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs

• Place uncooked pinwheels on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container where they can last for up to 2 months.

Reheating Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 30 seconds, but be aware they may lose some crispness.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a skillet, covered, until heated through, ensuring they stay soft and flaky.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

Yes! You can prepare them and keep them in the fridge or freezer before baking. Just bake them fresh when you’re ready to serve.

What herbs work best in cranberry cream cheese pinwheels with feta and herbs?

Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary enhance flavor. Choose your favorite or mix several for a unique taste!

How do I prevent my pinwheels from unrolling while baking?

Ensure you roll them tightly and seal the edges well. The egg wash also helps hold everything together.

Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute other soft cheeses like goat cheese or ricotta if you prefer different flavors.

Final Thoughts

Cranberry cream cheese pinwheels with feta and herbs are not only visually appealing but also deliciously versatile. Perfect for holiday gatherings or casual brunches, these pinwheels invite customization with various fillings or toppings. Try them today!