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There’s a certain charm in the way the holiday season invites us to gather around the table, creating memories with friends and family. As I was planning a festive get-together, I craved a dish that would not only please the palate but also make a stunning presentation. That’s when I decided on these Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs.

With their vibrant colors hinting at the festive spirit, these pinwheels are as easy to make as they are delightful to taste. The buttery, flaky puff pastry cradles a creamy filling bursting with the tangy sweetness of cranberries and the savory goodness of feta—a combination that always garners oohs and aahs.

Whether you’re preparing them for a cheerful brunch or a cozy evening with friends, these bites can be made ahead and are sure to be the star of any appetizer spread. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that’s bound to elevate your next gathering!

Why Love Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs?

Deliciously Festive: The vibrant colors and flavors of cranberries bring a festive spirit to any table.
Effortlessly Elegant: These pinwheels look impressive but require minimal effort, making you shine as a host.
Versatile Delight: Perfect for brunch, parties, or casual snacking, they fit any occasion beautifully.
Make-Ahead Magic: Prep them in advance, and simply bake when you’re ready—ideal for busy gatherings!
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of creamy cheese and tangy cranberries is a guaranteed hit with guests.
Elevate your appetizer game with these festive gems and leave your family and friends craving more!

Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels Ingredients

For the Pinwheels

Puff Pastry – The star of these pinwheels with its flaky, buttery texture; make sure to thaw it beforehand for easy rolling.
Cream Cheese – Provides a rich, creamy base for the filling, and it softens beautifully at room temperature.
Cranberries – Adds a delightful tartness; use dried for a chewy element or fresh for a burst of brightness—just sprinkle fresh ones with sugar for balance.
Feta Cheese – This tangy addition elevates the flavor profile; if you’re in the mood for a twist, goat cheese makes a lovely substitute.
Fresh Herbs (Parsley, Thyme, or Rosemary) – Imparts aromatic freshness; feel free to experiment based on your personal taste!
Egg – An essential for brushing on top, creating that gorgeous golden finish during baking.

Get ready to impress everyone with these Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels that are not only visually stunning but also gift a perfect blend of flavors!

How to Make Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels

Prepare the Pastry: Unroll the thawed puff pastry onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it out slightly to smooth any creases, creating a nice base for your pinwheels.
Mix the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with crumbled feta and chopped herbs. Stir until smooth and well-blended, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Spread with Love: Carefully spread the creamy cheese mixture evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a small border around the edges. Make sure to sprinkle the cranberries evenly over the filling, creating a colorful layer.
Roll It Up: Starting from one long edge, roll the pastry tightly to create a log shape. Use a gentle touch to ensure a snug roll, then slice into ½-inch pieces to form your pinwheels.
Arrange & Brush: Place the pinwheel slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg wash to give them that irresistible golden shine as they bake.
Bake to Perfection: Place the baking sheet in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) and bake for 15–20 minutes. Look for a puffy, golden brown color, which signals that they’re ready to be devoured!

Optional: Serve with a yogurt dip or fresh salad for an elevated appetizer experience.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs?

Create a delightful spread that pairs beautifully with these enticing bites to impress your guests.

Yogurt-Based Dip: A creamy tzatziki or herbed yogurt dip adds cooling notes and balances the tangy flavors of the pinwheels.
Light Salad: A fresh arugula salad with citrus vinaigrette adds brightness and a crisp texture, making for a refreshing contrast.
Roasted Veggies: Roasted seasonal vegetables coated in olive oil bring warmth and a satisfying texture, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Sparkling Wine: A chilled glass of sparkling wine or prosecco complements the festive nature of the pinwheels perfectly, adding a celebratory touch.
Cheese Platter: Pair with a selection of cheeses such as brie or gouda for a luxurious appetizer spread that caters to diverse palates.
Fruit Chutney: A sweet and tangy fruit chutney can be an exciting component to enhance the cranberries’ flavor profiles, making every bite even more delightful!

Elevate your gathering with these fantastic accompaniments, making your cranberry cream cheese pinwheels the star of the show!

How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels

Fridge: Store any leftover Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready to enjoy later.

Freezer: To freeze, place the uncooked slices on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then, transfer to a freezer bag or container for up to 2 months. Bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating: For best results, reheat baked pinwheels in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5–10 minutes to restore their flaky texture and warm them through.

Thawing: If frozen, allow the pinwheels to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, or place them directly in the preheated oven if you’re short on time.

Make Ahead Options

These Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy flavorful bites with minimal last-minute effort. You can prepare the entire log of filled pastry up to 24 hours in advance; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, slice the log into pinwheels, brush with egg wash, and bake as instructed. Additionally, you can even bake the pinwheels and refrigerate them for up to 3 days—just reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to restore their crispiness. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll find that serving a delicious appetizer has never been easier!

Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels Variations

Feel free to put your personal spin on these delicious pinwheels and make them your own!

Goat Cheese: Swap feta for goat cheese for a creamier, tangy twist that adds a unique flavor dimension. The slight tartness complements the cranberries beautifully.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling for delightful texture and a satisfying crunch. Nuts provide an unexpected surprise in each bite!
Herb Swap: Experiment with fresh dill or chives instead of the usual parsley, thyme, or rosemary to create a fresh burst of flavor, giving your pinwheels a whole new personality.
Sweet and Spicy: Incorporate a hint of crushed red pepper flakes for a mild heat that harmonizes beautifully with the tangy cranberries, creating a sweet and spicy flavor profile.
Smoky Flavor: Add a touch of smoked paprika to the cheese filling for a savory depth and a warm aroma that elevates these pinwheels to new heights of deliciousness.
Fruit Fusion: Try mixing the cranberries with finely diced apples or pears for an added layer of sweetness and texture that makes each bite even more delightful.
Vegan Version: For a plant-based option, substitute cream cheese with a vegan alternative and use no-egg wash methods (like almond milk) for a delicious vegan treat that everyone can enjoy.
Herb Cream Cheese: Use herb-flavored cream cheese as the base for a flavor-packed filling that will have your guests reaching for seconds! This shortcut brings an extra burst of freshness.

Tips for the Best Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels

Thaw Pastry Properly: Ensure your puff pastry is completely thawed at room temperature; this allows for smooth rolling and cutting.

Fresh Herbs Add Flavor: Choose your fresh herbs wisely; parsley, thyme, or rosemary boost the flavor, but feel free to play with your favorites!

Don’t Overfill: Avoid overstuffing your pinwheels; too much filling can make rolling difficult and may cause them to leak during baking.

Opt for Egg Wash: Brushing with an egg wash is essential for achieving that beautiful golden finish, which makes them look truly gourmet.

Serve Warm: These pinwheels are best served warm; reheat leftovers in the oven to restore their delightful flakiness.

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making the tastiest Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs that will impress everyone at your gathering!

Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs Recipe FAQs

What type of cranberries should I use?
You can use either dried or fresh cranberries. Dried cranberries add a chewy texture and concentrated sweetness, while fresh cranberries bring brightness and tartness. If using fresh cranberries, chop them and sprinkle with sugar to balance their tartness.

How should I store leftover pinwheels?
Store leftover Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready to enjoy later. When reheating, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5–10 minutes for the best texture.

Can I freeze these pinwheels?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the uncooked pinwheel slices on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Transfer the frozen slices to a freezer bag or container, where they can stay good for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from frozen.

What should I do if my puff pastry is difficult to roll?
If your puff pastry is challenging to roll, it might not be thawed enough. Ensure it is fully at room temperature. You can also gently knead it to make it easier to work with. If you notice it’s cracking or tearing, let it rest for a few minutes to allow the gluten to relax.

Are these pinwheels suitable for people with dairy allergies?
Unfortunately, the original recipe contains cream cheese and feta cheese, which are dairy products. However, you can substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and the feta with a plant-based cheese to make it suitable for those with dairy allergies. Always check the labels for any hidden allergens.