Tanya Rivers
Golden, flaky puff pastry swirled with creamy cheese, tart cranberries, and a sprinkle of savory herbs – these Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs are the perfect bite-sized appetizer for any gathering. Every swirl delivers a delightful balance of sweet and savory, making them irresistible from the very first bite.
Whether you’re serving them at a holiday party, brunch, or simply as an afternoon snack, these pinwheels are sure to impress. Not only are they beautiful to look at, but they are also incredibly easy to make with just a handful of ingredients. You’ll love how effortlessly they come together while looking like they came straight from a bakery.
Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs
These pinwheels are the ultimate combination of flavors and textures – buttery puff pastry, smooth cream cheese, tangy cranberries, and salty feta, all tied together with aromatic herbs. They’re quick to prepare, can be made ahead of time, and are the perfect party appetizer that disappears fast.
What Kind of Puff Pastry Should I Use?
The best results come from using high-quality, all-butter puff pastry. It provides a richer flavor and a crisp, flaky texture that elevates these pinwheels. If frozen puff pastry is your only option, make sure it’s fully thawed before you start rolling.
Ingredients for the Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs
Choosing the right ingredients is key to making these pinwheels full of flavor and perfectly balanced. Each component plays a role in creating that signature sweet, tangy, and savory taste.
- Puff Pastry – The base that turns golden and flaky when baked.
- Cream Cheese – Brings a smooth, creamy texture that holds everything together.
- Cranberry Sauce (or Dried Cranberries) – Adds a sweet and slightly tart flavor to contrast the rich cheese.
- Feta Cheese – Provides a salty and tangy punch that complements the cranberries.
- Fresh Herbs (such as parsley or rosemary) – Adds freshness and a fragrant aroma.
- Egg Wash (egg + splash of water) – Helps give the pastry a golden, glossy finish.
How To Make the Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs
Follow these simple steps to make these festive pinwheels that are as easy as they are impressive.
Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Unroll the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and gently press out any creases. Make sure it’s still cold but pliable.
Step 2: Spread the Cream Cheese
Evenly spread a layer of softened cream cheese over the puff pastry, leaving a small border around the edges.
Step 3: Add the Cranberries and Feta
Sprinkle the cranberry sauce or chopped dried cranberries evenly over the cream cheese, then add crumbled feta on top.
Step 4: Add Fresh Herbs
Scatter chopped fresh herbs over the filling for a burst of flavor and color.
Step 5: Roll and Slice
Starting from one long edge, tightly roll the puff pastry into a log. Slice into 1-inch pieces and place them cut side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 6: Brush with Egg Wash and Bake
Brush the tops with egg wash and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 18-22 minutes, or until golden and puffed.
Serving and Storing the Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs
These pinwheels are best served warm right out of the oven, when the pastry is crisp, and the cheese is melty. However, they are just as delicious at room temperature, making them perfect for parties and buffets. This recipe makes about 18 pinwheels, feeding 6 to 8 people as an appetizer.
For storage, place cooled pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes to bring back their crispy texture.
What to Serve With Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs?
1. Roasted Turkey or Chicken
The sweet-tart cranberry pairs beautifully with roasted meats, making these pinwheels a great holiday side.
2. Fresh Green Salad
A crisp salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the pastry.
3. Sparkling Wine or Champagne
The bubbly cuts through the creamy cheese and enhances the cranberries’ sweetness.
4. Cheese and Charcuterie Board
Serve alongside other cheeses, cured meats, and nuts for a complete appetizer spread.
5. Tomato Basil Soup
The savory, herby pinwheels complement the bright and tangy soup.
6. Warm Spiced Cider
Perfect for fall and winter gatherings, pairing sweet cider with the tart cranberries is a treat.
7. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
For a hearty meal, pair these with creamy mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the pinwheels, cover them tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready, just bake as directed.
2. Can I freeze these pinwheels?
Absolutely. Assemble and slice them, then freeze on a baking sheet until solid. Transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to a month. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
3. Can I use goat cheese instead of feta?
Yes, goat cheese works beautifully, adding a tangy and creamy texture. It’s slightly milder than feta but still pairs well with cranberries.
4. What if I don’t have cranberry sauce?
You can use chopped dried cranberries or even a thin layer of raspberry jam for a similar sweet-tart flavor.
5. Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, use vegan puff pastry, dairy-free cream cheese, and skip the feta or replace it with a plant-based alternative.
Save This Pin For Later
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest appetizer board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use dried cranberries or sauce? Did you try swapping feta for goat cheese?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too, let’s help each other bake smarter.
Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks on Tanya Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!
Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Sharp knife
Ingredients
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 (egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface, pressing out creases.
- Spread softened cream cheese evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a small border.
- Sprinkle cranberry sauce or chopped dried cranberries and crumbled feta cheese evenly.
- Add chopped fresh herbs over the filling.
- Roll the pastry tightly from one long edge into a log and slice into 1-inch pieces.
- Place pinwheels cut side up on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush tops with egg wash and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until golden and puffed.