Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs

These Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs are a delightful and festive treat that combines flaky puff pastry, creamy cheese, tangy cranberries, and fresh herbs. Perfect for the holidays, brunch, or any occasion that calls for an elegant appetizer, these pinwheels are as simple to make as they are delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels are the perfect balance of sweet and savory. The creamy filling of cream cheese and feta is complemented by the tartness of dried cranberries, and the fresh herbs add a pop of flavor. All of this is wrapped in a golden, flaky puff pastry that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday gathering or a casual brunch, these pinwheels are sure to impress your guests with both their flavor and presentation.

Ingredients

1 sheet puff pastry
4 oz cream cheese (softened)
1/3 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
1/3 cup dried cranberries (chopped)
1 tablespoon fresh herbs (rosemary or parsley, chopped)
1 tablespoon honey (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a bowl, mix the cream cheese, feta, herbs, and honey (if using) until smooth.

3. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface.

4. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the pastry, leaving a small border.

5. Sprinkle the chopped cranberries evenly over the cheese mixture.

6. Roll up the pastry tightly into a log and slice it into ½-inch rounds.

7. Place the pinwheels on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15–18 minutes or until golden.

8. Let the pinwheels cool slightly before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields about 12 pinwheels and takes approximately 33 minutes in total (15 minutes for prep and 18 minutes for baking).

Variations

• Add nuts: For an extra crunch, you can add chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling.

• Cheese swap: If you’re not a fan of feta, you can substitute goat cheese or ricotta for a different flavor.

• Herb variation: Experiment with different herbs such as thyme or sage to add a unique twist to the flavor profile.

• Spicy version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the cheese mixture for a bit of heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storing: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

• Reheating: To refresh the crispness of the pinwheels, reheat them in a low oven (about 300°F or 150°C) for 5-10 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pinwheels, slice them, and store them in the refrigerator for a few hours before baking. Just bake them right before serving.

2. Can I freeze these pinwheels?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked pinwheels. Place them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen at 400°F for 20–25 minutes.

3. Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried cranberries?

Fresh cranberries can be used, but they’re more tart than dried cranberries. If you use fresh cranberries, you may want to sweeten them slightly before adding them to the filling.

4. Can I make these pinwheels without the honey?

Yes, the honey is optional. If you prefer a more savory version, you can skip it or substitute with a little bit of maple syrup for a different type of sweetness.

5. Can I use store-bought puff pastry for this recipe?

Yes, store-bought puff pastry works perfectly for this recipe and saves time. Just make sure to thaw it according to package instructions before using.

6. What other herbs can I use besides rosemary or parsley?

Thyme, sage, or chives would be great alternatives for the herbs in this recipe, adding their own unique flavors.

7. How do I prevent the puff pastry from getting soggy?

Ensure that the cream cheese mixture is evenly spread without excess moisture, and bake the pinwheels immediately after assembling for the best results.

8. Can I serve these pinwheels cold?

While they are best served warm, you can also serve them cold if preferred. However, the pastry might not be as crisp when cooled.

9. Can I add meat to the filling?

Yes, you can add crumbled bacon or cooked chicken to the filling for extra flavor and texture.

10. How do I know when the pinwheels are done?

The pinwheels are done when they are golden brown and crispy on the edges. You can also check by inserting a toothpick and ensuring the filling is warmed through.

Conclusion

Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs are a simple yet elegant appetizer that blends creamy, tangy, and herby flavors. Their flaky texture and festive appearance make them ideal for holiday gatherings, brunches, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with a delightful snack. With just a few ingredients and a bit of time, you can create a memorable and delicious treat that everyone will love.

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