Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs

Crispy, golden puff pastry filled with creamy cheese, tangy cranberries, and savory herbs – these Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs are the perfect quick appetizer. Ideal for holiday parties, brunch, or a casual snack, this easy recipe impresses with its delightful flavors and vibrant presentation. Whether you’re searching for quick breakfast ideas or fun food options for gatherings, these pinwheels stand out as a must-try!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these delicious pinwheels in no time.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of creamy cheese, tart cranberries, and fresh herbs creates a delightful taste experience.
• Versatile Appetizer: Perfect for any occasion, from holiday celebrations to casual get-togethers.
• Crowd-Pleaser: These pinwheels are sure to impress your guests and leave them asking for the recipe!
• Make Ahead Option: You can prepare them in advance and bake just before serving for warm, fresh bites.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes all the difference when preparing your Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs. Ensure you have everything ready to streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking and helps achieve that perfect golden color.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze after baking.
• Rolling pin: Ensures even thickness of the puff pastry for uniform cooking.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients easily without mess.

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Ingredients

For the Pastry

• 1 sheet puff pastry

For the Filling

• 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

For Egg Wash

• 1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water

How to Make Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Roll Out Puff Pastry

Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface, pressing out any creases to ensure an even base.

Step 3: Spread Cream Cheese

Spread softened cream cheese evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a small border around the edges.

Step 4: Add Cranberries and Feta

Sprinkle cranberry sauce or chopped dried cranberries evenly across the cream cheese layer. Top with crumbled feta cheese.

Step 5: Sprinkle Fresh Herbs

Add chopped fresh herbs over the filling for an extra burst of flavor.

Step 6: Roll and Slice

Roll the pastry tightly from one long edge into a log shape. Slice into 1-inch pieces carefully.

Step 7: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Place pinwheels cut side up on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are spaced adequately apart.

Step 8: Apply Egg Wash and Bake

Brush tops with egg wash for a golden finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes or until golden brown and puffed up.

How to Serve Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs

Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs make for a delightful appetizer that can be served in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your presentation and flavor experience.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: Toss together fresh mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pinwheels.
• Cranberry Walnut Salad: Combine baby spinach with dried cranberries, walnuts, and a citrus dressing for a perfect complement.

Serve with Dipping Sauces

• Honey Mustard Dip: A sweet and tangy honey mustard sauce adds a lovely contrast to the creamy filling of the pinwheels.
• Herb-infused Yogurt Sauce: Mix plain yogurt with herbs like dill or parsley for a refreshing dip that pairs well.

Include Seasonal Fruits

• Sliced Apples or Pears: Fresh fruit slices add a crunchy texture and sweetness that complements the savory flavors of the pinwheels.
• Grapes and Berries Platter: A colorful assortment of grapes and berries can brighten up your serving tray.

Create a Charcuterie Board

• Cheese Selection: Add various cheeses such as gouda or cheddar alongside your pinwheels for guests to mix and match flavors.
• Crackers and Breadsticks: Offer an assortment of crackers and breadsticks for added crunch.

How to Perfect Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs

Perfecting your Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs is all about attention to detail. Here are some helpful tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.

• Use Cold Puff Pastry: Keep your puff pastry cold until ready to use; this helps achieve a flakier texture when baked.
• Spread Evenly: Make sure to spread the cream cheese evenly over the pastry for consistent flavor in every bite.
• Chill Before Baking: After assembling, chilling the pinwheels for 15 minutes can help retain their shape while baking.
• Watch Baking Time Closely: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking to avoid over-browning.
• Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to add other ingredients like spinach or roasted red peppers for added flavor variations.
• Serve Warm: These pinwheels are best enjoyed warm straight from the oven, ensuring maximum creaminess and flavor.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that work well together.

1. Mixed Vegetable Platter: Fresh cut vegetables such as carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers served with hummus bring brightness and crunch.
2. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until crispy offer a sweet contrast that complements the savory pinwheels.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon dressing provides a nutritious side that balances flavors beautifully.
4. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms filled with herbs and cheese pair wonderfully as bite-sized treats alongside pinwheels.
5. Baked Zucchini Fries: Crispy zucchini fries seasoned with herbs add a fun twist that everyone will love.
6. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft garlic breadsticks provide an easy-to-eat option that adds comfort food vibes to your spread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes will ensure your pinwheels turn out perfectly. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Boldly using cold cream cheese: Using cold cream cheese makes it difficult to spread evenly. Always soften the cream cheese at room temperature before use.

• Boldly overfilling the pastry: Adding too much filling can cause the pinwheels to burst during baking. Be generous but keep a small border around the edges.

• Boldly skipping the egg wash: The egg wash gives the pinwheels a beautiful golden color. Don’t skip this step; brush the tops of each pinwheel before baking.

• Boldly neglecting to preheat the oven: Baking in a non-preheated oven may lead to uneven cooking. Ensure your oven is fully preheated before placing your pinwheels inside.

• Boldly overlooking cooling time: Letting the pinwheels cool for a few minutes after baking helps them set and makes them easier to handle. Wait patiently for them to cool slightly before serving.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs

• Place pinwheels on a baking sheet and freeze until firm.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag and store for up to 2 months.

Reheating Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs

• Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat one at a time for about 30 seconds, but this may make them less crispy.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs that might help you:

Can I make Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them and refrigerate or freeze them until you’re ready to bake.

What can I substitute for feta cheese in this recipe?

You can use goat cheese or any creamy cheese of your choice if you prefer a different flavor profile.

How do I customize my Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs?

Feel free to experiment by adding ingredients like nuts or different herbs based on your preference!

Are these pinwheels suitable for parties?

Absolutely! They make an excellent appetizer that’s easy to serve and enjoy at any gathering.

What should I serve with my Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs?

Pair these delightful pinwheels with fresh salads, dips, or even alongside other appetizers for a well-rounded spread!

Final Thoughts

Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs are not only delicious but also versatile enough for various occasions. Their creamy texture paired with tangy cranberries and herbs makes them appealing to many palates. Feel free to customize the filling based on what’s available or your personal preferences. Give this recipe a try, and impress your guests at your next gathering!