Looking for a delicious appetizer that’s both quick and easy to make? Look no further than these delightful Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs! Combining the crispy, flaky goodness of puff pastry with a creamy filling of rich cream cheese and tangy cranberries, this recipe truly showcases the best of sweet and savory flavors. Perfect for holiday parties, brunches, or any gathering, these pinwheels are sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more.
Not only are these pinwheels flavorful, but they also require minimal prep time, making them an ideal choice for unexpected guests or a fuss-free snack. Utilizing pre-made puff pastry means you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of friends and family. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up this scrumptious treat that offers a wonderful balance of textures – from the crunch of the pastry to the creaminess of the cheese and the burst of flavor from the cranberries. As you browse through the recipe below, you’ll find that it’s just as simple as it is delicious!
Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for last-minute gatherings or snack attacks.
- Versatile: Suitable for various occasions, from holiday parties to brunch.
- Tantalizing Flavor: The combination of cranberries, feta, and herbs creates a unique taste experience.
- Fun to Make: Involve family and friends in rolling and slicing for a great activity!
- Impressive Presentation: The pinwheels are visually stunning, making them perfect for entertaining.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into making your Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels, it’s crucial to prepare your kitchen and tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience. Start by gathering all the necessary equipment that you will need:
- Baking Sheet: A flat, sturdy surface for placing your pinwheels.
- Parchment Paper: To line your baking sheet, preventing sticking and making cleanup easier.
- Sharp Knife: Essential for slicing your rolled pinwheels evenly.
Once you have your tools ready, take a moment to clear your workspace. This will help you stay organized as you make your pinwheels. Ensure that your puff pastry is thawed according to package instructions. This step is essential to achieve that light, flaky texture when baked. A light dusting of flour on your surface will keep your pastry from sticking, allowing you to roll and shape it without any hassle. Now that you have everything in place, let’s talk about the star of the dish!
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup cranberry sauce or 1/3 cup chopped dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (parsley or rosemary), chopped
- 1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your pinwheels will bake evenly and achieve that beautiful golden color. While the oven heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple step prevents any sticking problems and makes cleanup a breeze, allowing you to focus on creating delicious food!
Step 2: Roll Out the Puff Pastry
Once the oven is preheated, lightly dust your work surface with flour to prevent sticking and roll out the puff pastry. As you roll, press firmly to get rid of any creases that could impede the layering of flavors later. The aim is to make a rectangular sheet that will hold your scrumptious filling.
Step 3: Spread the Cream Cheese
With your pastry rolled out, take the softened cream cheese and spread it evenly over the surface, leaving a small border along the edges. This border will help seal your pinwheels as you roll them up, preventing the filling from spilling out during baking.
Step 4: Add the Tantalizing Fillings
Now, sprinkle the cranberry sauce or chopped dried cranberries over the cream cheese, making sure to distribute it evenly. Then, follow up with crumbled feta cheese and a sprinkle of fresh chopped herbs. The combination of flavors will tempt your senses and create a delicious filling for your pinwheels.
Step 5: Roll and Slice
Starting from one long edge of the pastry, roll everything tightly into a log shape. Once rolled, use a sharp knife to slice the log into 1-inch pieces. Be gentle to maintain the structure of the pinwheels while ensuring they are uniform in size for even baking.
Step 6: Bake the Pinwheels
Place the sliced pinwheels cut side up on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the egg wash, which gives the pastry a beautiful golden color as it bakes. Finally, slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, until they are puffed and deliciously golden brown. Your kitchen will start to smell wonderful as they cook!
Variations
- Protein: Add cooked chicken or turkey for a heartier version.
- Vegetables: Incorporate spinach or sautéed mushrooms to enhance nutritional value.
- Spices: Experiment with spices like garlic powder or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
Cooking Notes
- For best results, use chilled puff pastry.
- Make sure to allow the cream cheese to soften for easy spreading.
- These pinwheels can be made ahead of time and frozen; bake straight from the freezer.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a side of cranberry sauce for dipping.
- Pair with a refreshing salad and crisp white wine.
Tips
- Use a pizza cutter for quick and even slicing.
- If you want a more pronounced herb flavor, try using a mix of herbs.
- Add a drizzle of honey on top before serving for added sweetness.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 110 kcal
- Protein: 3 g
- Sodium: 160 mg
FAQs
Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare these pinwheels, slice them, and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze them and bake from frozen when needed.
What can I substitute for feta cheese?
If you’re not a fan of feta, try using goat cheese or ricotta for a different flavor profile.
Can I use a different flavor of sauce?
Absolutely! You can use berry sauces, or even a sweet chili sauce, based on your preferences.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover pinwheels can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Conclusion
These Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs are not just appetizers; they’re conversation starters, elevating any gathering with their vibrant colors and flavors. Whether you’re entertaining at a holiday party or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, these pinwheels are an absolute must-try. The blend of creamy cheese, sweet cranberries, and fresh herbs in flaky pastry is so enticing that it’ll have everyone reaching for seconds. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different variations to find your ideal combination! We invite you to share your experience with this recipe in the comments below. Happy cooking!
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Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
These Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels are a perfect appetizer for any gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup cranberry sauce or 1/3 cup chopped dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (parsley or rosemary), chopped
- 1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to a rectangular sheet.
- Spread cream cheese evenly over the pastry, leaving a small border along the edges.
- Sprinkle cranberry sauce and feta cheese over the cream cheese, followed by chopped herbs.
- Roll the pastry tightly from one long edge into a log shape and slice into 1-inch pieces.
- Place cut side up on the baking sheet, brush with egg wash, and bake for 18-22 minutes until golden brown.
Notes
For best results, use chilled puff pastry and allow cream cheese to soften for easy spreading.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
Nutrition
- Calories: 110 kcal
- Sodium: 160 mg
- Protein: 3 g