These Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs are a delightful addition to any gathering. With their bright flavors and flaky texture, these pinwheels make an ideal festive appetizer. Perfect for holidays, parties, or brunch, they stand out with their creamy filling and a touch of herbs that elevate the taste. Easy to prepare and pleasing to the eye, these pinwheels are sure to impress your guests.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these pinwheels in no time.
- Versatile Flavor: The combination of sweet cranberries, creamy cheese, and fresh herbs creates a unique flavor profile that appeals to everyone.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday party or a casual brunch, these pinwheels fit right in.
- Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Their attractive presentation and delicious taste make them a hit at gatherings.
- Make Ahead Option: Prepare them in advance and bake just before serving for convenience.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience. Having the right equipment makes all the difference.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowl
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Rolling pin: Helps in evenly rolling out the puff pastry for perfect thickness.
- Baking sheet: Essential for baking the pinwheels evenly without sticking.
- Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and ensures easy cleanup after baking.
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)
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
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 achieve an even thickness.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with crumbled feta and chopped herbs until smooth. Ensure all ingredients blend well together.
Step 3: Assemble the Pinwheels
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the puff pastry while leaving a small border around edges. Sprinkle chopped cranberries on top of the cheese mixture.
Step 4: Roll Up the Pastry
Roll the pastry tightly into a log starting from one long edge. Slice this log into ½-inch pieces to form individual pinwheels.
Step 5: Prepare for Baking
Arrange the sliced pinwheels on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush each piece with beaten egg wash for that golden finish.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake for 15–20 minutes or until they are golden brown and puffed up. Allow them to cool slightly before serving.
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. They are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a festive celebration or a casual gathering. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your presentation.
On a Charcuterie Board
- Arrange pinwheels alongside cured meats, cheeses, and nuts for an elegant touch.
- Add seasonal fruits like grapes or apple slices for color and freshness.
With Dipping Sauces
- Serve with a honey mustard sauce for a sweet and tangy contrast.
- Pair with a balsamic glaze for extra flavor that complements the cranberries.
As Part of a Brunch Spread
- Include these pinwheels on your brunch table with fresh fruits and pastries.
- Offer mimosas or sparkling water to create a refreshing drink option.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Top each pinwheel with a sprig of parsley or thyme for visual appeal.
- This adds an aromatic touch that enhances the flavors of the dish.
How to Perfect Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs
To make sure your cranberry cream cheese pinwheels turn out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:
- Use chilled puff pastry: This ensures the pastry puffs up nicely while baking.
- Soften cream cheese properly: Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing and spreading.
- Don’t overfill: Spread the filling evenly but avoid using too much; it can cause the pinwheels to burst during baking.
- Brush well with egg wash: This gives your pinwheels a beautiful golden color and shiny finish.
- Let cool slightly before serving: This helps retain the filling inside and makes them easier to handle.
- Experiment with herbs: Try different combinations of herbs like dill or basil to suit your taste preferences.
Best Side Dishes for Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs
These cranberry cream cheese pinwheels pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some tasty options to complement your appetizer:
- Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the pinwheels.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory bites add an earthy flavor that contrasts nicely.
- Vegetable Crudités: Fresh veggies provide crunch and color alongside the creamy pinwheels.
- Mini Quiches: Offering another savory option, mini quiches can delight guests at any gathering.
- Fruit Platter: A selection of seasonal fruits adds sweetness and freshness to the meal.
- Deviled Eggs: Classic deviled eggs bring a creamy texture that pairs well with the crispy pastry.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making cranberry cream cheese pinwheels with feta and herbs, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.
- Not Thawing Puff Pastry Properly: Make sure your puff pastry is fully thawed before using. If it’s too cold, it won’t roll out smoothly, leading to uneven baking.
- Overfilling the Pinwheels: It’s tempting to add more filling, but overfilling can cause the pinwheels to burst during baking. Stick to the recommended amount for the best results.
- Skipping the Egg Wash: An egg wash gives your pinwheels a beautiful golden color. Don’t skip this step; it enhances both appearance and texture.
- Cutting Uneven Slices: For even baking, cut your pinwheels into uniform slices. This ensures all pieces cook at the same rate and look appealing when served.
- Baking at the Wrong Temperature: Always preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Baking at a lower temperature may lead to soggy pinwheels instead of a flaky texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- They can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs
- Freeze unbaked pinwheels on a baking sheet until solid.
- Transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 10 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat in 30-second intervals until warm. This method may make them less crispy.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed. This helps retain some flakiness.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I customize my Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs?
You can add different herbs like dill or basil, or swap feta for goat cheese. Adding nuts like walnuts or pecans can also enhance texture and flavor.
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Yes, you can use fresh cranberries, but be sure to chop them finely and consider adding a little sugar as they are tart.
How long do these pinwheels stay fresh?
When stored properly in the refrigerator, cranberry cream cheese pinwheels with feta and herbs remain fresh for up to 3 days.
Are these pinwheels suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! You can freeze unbaked pinwheels for up to 2 months. Just bake them straight from the freezer; they may need an extra few minutes in the oven.
Final Thoughts
Cranberry cream cheese pinwheels with feta and herbs are not only delicious but also versatile. Perfect for any occasion—from holiday gatherings to casual brunches—these appetizers can easily be customized to suit your taste. Try adding different fillings or toppings for a unique twist!
Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs are a vibrant and delicious appetizer perfect for any gathering. These pinwheels combine the sweetness of cranberries, the creaminess of cheese, and the freshness of herbs, creating a delightful flavor profile that will impress your guests. Ideal for holiday parties, brunches, or casual get-togethers, they are not only visually appealing but also simple to prepare. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these crowd-pleasers in no time. Serve them warm out of the oven or prepare them ahead of time for convenience—they’re sure to be a hit!
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 (e.g., parsley, thyme, or rosemary), chopped
- 1 egg (beaten for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Roll out thawed puff pastry on a floured surface to an even thickness.
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese with crumbled feta and chopped herbs until smooth.
- Spread the mixture evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a small border.
- Sprinkle chopped cranberries over the cream cheese mixture.
- Roll the pastry tightly into a log and slice into ½-inch pinwheels.
- Place pinwheels on a parchment-lined baking sheet and brush with beaten egg wash.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes until golden brown and puffed.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 pinwheels (approximately 60g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Ensure puff pastry is chilled for optimal puffiness during baking. Feel free to experiment with different herbs or cheese varieties to customize flavors. For serving, pair with dipping sauces like honey mustard or balsamic glaze for added taste.