As I was popping the last of my holiday appetizers into the oven, the kitchen filled with an intoxicating aroma of melting cheese and sweet cranberries. It dawned on me how these Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs could transform any gathering into a warm celebration—each bite a perfect blend of savory and sweet. This easy appetizer not only impresses with its stunning presentation but also offers the flexibility to customize with your favorite cheeses or even a touch of raspberry jam. Whether you’re preparing for a festive feast, a cozy brunch, or just a comforting snack, these pinwheels are a crowd-pleaser that can be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy the moment and savor the compliments. Ready to make a batch that will steal the spotlight?
Why are these pinwheels so irresistible?
Flavor Explosion: Each Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheel bursts with a delightful mix of sweet and savory, making them an instant hit at any gathering.
Customization Galore: Feel free to experiment! Substitute feta with goat cheese or add some raspberry jam for a twist.
Simple to Make: You don’t need to be a culinary expert; these pinwheels come together quickly, turning even novice cooks into kitchen rock stars.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep them a day in advance, making hosting stress-free while ensuring fresh-baked goodness when your guests arrive.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether it’s a brunch, holiday party, or casual get-together, these elegant bites are sure to keep everyone coming back for more!
Don’t forget to try them alongside a fresh salad or as part of a festive charcuterie board to elevate your spread!
Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels Ingredients
For the Pinwheels
• Puff Pastry – Flaky texture forms the base; opt for all-butter variety for rich flavor, and keep it cold for best results.
• Cream Cheese – Softened for easy spreading, it adds creaminess that blends beautifully with the filling.
• Cranberry Sauce/Dried Cranberries – Provides a sweet-tart flavor; dried cranberries can enhance texture if canned sauce isn’t your thing.
• Feta Cheese – Crumbled for a salty and tangy bite; consider goat cheese for a milder profile if desired.
• Fresh Herbs (Parsley or Rosemary) – Finely chopped for freshness and depth of flavor in each bite.
• Egg Wash – (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water) to achieve a golden, glossy finish that makes these pinwheels irresistible.
Optional Toppings
• Chopped Walnuts or Pecans – Mix these in for an added crunch and flavor complexity, perfect for a gourmet touch.
These Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels will brighten up your table and delight your guests, making them an effortless holiday elegance!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to catch any drippings and ensure easy cleanup. The parchment will also help the pinwheels achieve an evenly cooked, golden finish.
Step 2: Roll Out the Puff Pastry
On a floured surface, gently roll out the chilled puff pastry, pressing out any creases for a smooth and even surface. Aim for a rectangle about ¼ inch thick, ensuring the pastry remains cold to maintain its flaky texture. Once rolled, you’re ready to spread the delicious filling.
Step 3: Spread the Cream Cheese
Take your softened cream cheese and evenly spread a layer across the puff pastry, leaving about a ½-inch border on all sides. The cream cheese acts as a rich base for your fillings, so ensure it’s spread evenly to create a luscious creaminess in each bite of the Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels.
Step 4: Add Cranberries and Feta
Next, sprinkle your choice of cranberry sauce or finely chopped dried cranberries over the cream cheese layer, ensuring an even distribution. Follow this with crumbled feta cheese, or goat cheese if you prefer a milder taste. This combination will create a delightful contrast of flavors in every pinwheel.
Step 5: Sprinkle Fresh Herbs
Evenly scatter your finely chopped parsley or rosemary over the filling, enhancing the flavors and providing a fresh pop. The herbs will complement the creamy and tangy fillings, making your Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels even more irresistible as they bake.
Step 6: Roll the Pastry
Starting from one long edge of the pastry, tightly roll it into a log shape, ensuring the filling stays intact. Use gentle pressure to create a tight roll without squishing the ingredients out. Once rolled, pinch the seam to seal it closed, preparing it for slicing into pinwheels.
Step 7: Slice the Pinwheels
Using a sharp knife, slice the rolled pastry into 1-inch thick pinwheels. Each slice should reveal the beautiful layers of filling. Place the pinwheels cut side up onto your prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart to allow for expansion while baking.
Step 8: Brush with Egg Wash
In a small bowl, whisk together one egg with a tablespoon of water to create an egg wash. Generously brush the tops of each pinwheel with the egg wash, which will give them a golden, glossy finish as they bake, making them even more tempting to enjoy.
Step 9: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the baking sheet with the pinwheels into the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes. Keep an eye on them, looking for a beautiful golden color and a puffed-up appearance. The aroma filling your kitchen will signal that your Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels are nearly ready to delight your guests.
Helpful Tricks for Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels
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Chill the Pastry: Keep the puff pastry cold while working to achieve the best flaky texture. Warm pastry can lead to sogginess in your pinwheels.
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Don’t Overfill: Be careful not to overstuff your pinwheels. Too much filling can cause them to burst open during baking, making a mess.
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Perfectly Shape: Make sure your log is tightly rolled. A loose roll may unravel while baking, affecting the presentation of your Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: For optimal flavor, use fresh herbs and high-quality cheese. This elevates the overall taste and ensures a delightful appetizer.
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Egg Wash Technique: Apply egg wash evenly with a brush to give the tops a beautifully golden and glossy finish. It enhances the pinwheel’s visual appeal!
What to Serve with Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels?
Elevate your dining experience by curating the perfect side dishes and drinks that complement the delightful flavors of these pinwheels.
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Light Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens and a citrus vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pinwheels.
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Sparkling Wine: Bubbly drinks provide a festive touch while the effervescence cuts through the creaminess, enhancing the flavors of the appetizer.
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Charcuterie Board: Include some cured meats, olives, and assorted cheeses to create a flavorful spread that pairs wonderfully with the sweet-tart pinwheels.
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Herbed Quinoa: The nutty flavor and light texture of quinoa with fresh herbs harmonizes beautifully with the savory notes of the pinwheels.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring a warm, earthy feel to the table while balancing the pinwheels’ sweet and creamy profile.
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Apple Slices with Honey: Crisp, sweet apples drizzled with honey add a crunchy, refreshing element that complements the savory and sweet attributes of the pinwheels.
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Mini Fruit Tarts: For dessert, serve mini fruit tarts that echo the sweetness of cranberries, finishing your meal on a delightful note.
Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels: Customization Ideas
Feel free to get creative and put your own spin on these delightful pinwheels—it’s all about tailoring to your taste!
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Goat Cheese: Swap out the feta for goat cheese for a creamier, milder option that adds a unique tartness.
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Raspberry Jam: Spread a layer of raspberry jam alongside the cream cheese for a vibrant, sweet twist that perfectly complements the cranberries.
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Vegan Version: Opt for vegan puff pastry and dairy-free cream cheese to make these pinwheels plant-based while keeping all the flavors intact.
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Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and a hint of earthiness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
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Spice It Up: Dust a bit of crushed red pepper or cayenne into the filling for a subtle heat that rounds out the flavors.
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Herb Variations: Experiment with different fresh herbs like chives or dill for a refreshing twist that brightens each bite.
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Savory Switch: Replace cranberries with chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a savory variation that’s perfect for more casual gatherings.
These options make it easy to customize your Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels, ensuring they suit any occasion or palate. Enjoy exploring your unique creations! Don’t forget to check out some of our other delicious recipes like Baked Broccoli Cheese and Chicken Mac Cheese for more culinary inspiration!
Storage Tips for Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels
Room Temperature: Enjoy your pinwheels fresh out of the oven for the best taste, but they can be left at room temperature for up to 2 hours during gatherings.
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors intact while maintaining freshness.
Freezer: If you’ve prepared too many, freeze the assembled pinwheels individually on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain that delicious crispy texture of your Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels.
Make Ahead Options
These Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels are ideal for meal prep, allowing you to assemble them up to 24 hours in advance! Simply follow the initial steps of rolling out the puff pastry and layering in the cream cheese, cranberries, and feta. Once rolled and sliced into pinwheels, place them on a baking sheet, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. For even longer storage, you can freeze the assembled pinwheels for up to 3 months. When it’s time to serve, bake them directly from the fridge or frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. This method ensures you’ll enjoy these delightful bites just as deliciously fresh, saving you time and stress on busy days!
Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels Recipe FAQs
What kind of puff pastry should I use for these pinwheels?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture in your Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels, I recommend using all-butter puff pastry. It has a rich, flaky quality that elevates the dish. Ensure the pastry is cold while handling it to achieve that delightful puffiness when baked.
How do I store leftover pinwheels?
Very good question! To keep your flavorful pinwheels fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This way, they’ll stay tasty and retain their flaky texture, ready to be enjoyed any time!
Can I freeze these pinwheels before baking?
Yes, indeed! If you’ve made a batch in advance, you can freeze the assembled pinwheels. Place them on a baking sheet without touching each other to freeze individually for about 2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, cook them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure they’re thoroughly heated.
What if my pinwheels don’t puff up while baking?
Great concern! If your Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels don’t puff up as expected, it’s often due to the puff pastry being too warm or not rolled out properly. Always keep the pastry cold, and be sure to roll it out to about ¼ inch thick for optimal results. Additionally, avoid overfilling, as this can weigh them down and impede that lovely lift.
Are there any dietary considerations for these pinwheels?
Definitely! These pinwheels can easily be adjusted to accommodate various dietary preferences. For a vegetarian option, simply use plant-based cream cheese and ensure your puff pastry is vegan. If you’re catering to guests with allergies, double-check all ingredient labels, particularly for feta, which may contain milk, and cranberries for possible added sugars.
Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels: Effortless Holiday Elegance
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- On a floured surface, roll out the chilled puff pastry to a rectangle about ¼ inch thick.
- Spread softened cream cheese evenly across the puff pastry, leaving a ½-inch border.
- Sprinkle cranberry sauce or chopped dried cranberries and crumbled feta cheese evenly over the cream cheese.
- Scatter finely chopped fresh herbs over the filling.
- Starting from one long edge, tightly roll the pastry into a log shape and pinch the seam to seal.
- Slice the rolled pastry into 1-inch thick pinwheels and place them cut side up on the baking sheet.
- Brush the tops of each pinwheel with egg wash for a golden finish.
- Bake the pinwheels in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes until golden and puffed up.
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