Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs

Name: Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed; 4 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup cranberries (dried or fresh), chopped; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, or rosemary), chopped; 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Published: January 1, 2026

by Victoria

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make – This recipe requires minimal effort and is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
Festive Flavors – The blend of cranberries and herbs brings a seasonal touch that enhances any occasion.
Versatile Appetizer – Suitable for parties, holidays, or even a cozy family dinner; these pinwheels are always a hit.
Crowd-Pleasing – With their delicious taste and appealing presentation, they’re sure to please everyone at the table.
Quick Preparation – Ready in just 35 minutes, making them an excellent choice for last-minute entertaining.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making these tasty pinwheels, gather your tools for a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Rolling pin
Mixing bowl
Knife
Pastry brush

Importance of Each Tool

Baking sheet – Provides an even surface for baking the pinwheels to golden perfection.
Parchment paper – Prevents sticking and makes clean-up effortless.
Mixing bowl – Essential for combining ingredients smoothly before spreading.

Ingredients

For the Pastry

1 sheet puff pastry, thawed

For the Filling

4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup cranberries (dried or fresh, chopped)
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
2 tablespoons fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, or rosemary), chopped

For Finishing Touches

1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

How to Make Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs

Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry

Unroll the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Roll out slightly to create an even surface.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, crumbled feta, and chopped herbs. Mix until smooth.

Step 3: Assemble the Pinwheels

Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the pastry, leaving a small border. Evenly sprinkle the cranberries on top.

Step 4: Roll It Up

Starting from one long edge, tightly roll the pastry into a log. Slice into ½-inch pieces using a sharp knife.

Step 5: Bake

Arrange the slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush each piece with the beaten egg. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes until golden brown and puffed.

Step 6: Serve

Allow them to cool slightly before serving to enhance their flavors. Enjoy your delicious Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs!

How to Serve Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs

Cranberry cream cheese pinwheels with feta and herbs are a delightful appetizer that can be served in many ways. Their bright flavors and flaky texture make them perfect for various occasions.

Pairing with Dips

Herbed Yogurt Dip: A cool and creamy dip that complements the savory flavors of the pinwheels.
Spicy Mustard: Adds a tangy kick, enhancing the richness of the cream cheese and feta.

Serving on a Platter

Garnished with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkling fresh herbs like parsley or thyme on top makes for an elegant presentation.
Accompanied by Sliced Fruits: Offering fresh fruits like apple slices or grapes adds a sweet contrast to the savory pinwheels.

Ideal Drink Pairings

Sparkling Wine: The bubbles in sparkling wine enhance the lightness of the puff pastry.
Herbal Iced Tea: A refreshing non-alcoholic option that balances the richness of the dish.

How to Perfect Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs

To achieve the best results when making cranberry cream cheese pinwheels, consider these tips.

Use Thawed Puff Pastry: Ensure your puff pastry is completely thawed for easier rolling and better texture.
Soften Cream Cheese Fully: This will help you blend it smoothly with feta and herbs, avoiding lumps.
Experiment with Herbs: Try different combinations of herbs like dill or basil for unique flavor profiles.
Slice Evenly: Cut your pinwheels evenly to ensure they bake uniformly and look appealing on the platter.
Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on them while baking; they should be golden brown for optimal flavor and texture.

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

These pinwheels pair wonderfully with various side dishes, enhancing your appetizer spread. Here are some great options to consider.

Mixed Green Salad: A light salad tossed in a vinaigrette balances out the richness of the pinwheels.
Roasted Vegetable Platter: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrients to your meal.
Cheese Board: A selection of cheeses complements the flavors in your pinwheels beautifully.
Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms provide a hearty option alongside your light appetizers.
Fruit Skewers: Fresh fruit skewers offer a sweet contrast that’s visually appealing and tasty.
Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil adds a crunchy texture to your spread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making cranberry cream cheese pinwheels with feta and herbs can be straightforward, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

Bold Rolling Technique: If you roll the pastry too loosely, the filling may spill out during baking. Aim for a tight log to keep everything intact.
Bold Not Thawing Properly: Using puff pastry that isn’t fully thawed can lead to uneven baking. Ensure it’s completely thawed before rolling out.
Bold Skipping Egg Wash: Neglecting the egg wash can result in pale pinwheels. Brush each slice with egg wash for a golden finish.
Bold Ignoring Cooling Time: Serving pinwheels straight from the oven can burn your mouth. Allow them to cool slightly for better flavor and safety.
Bold Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: Placing too many pinwheels close together can prevent them from puffing properly. Give them space on the sheet for even cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs

Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs

Bold Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 10 minutes until heated through.
Bold Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 30 seconds. Check regularly to avoid sogginess.
Bold Stovetop: Place in a non-stick skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making cranberry cream cheese pinwheels with feta and herbs.

Can I use different cheeses in my cranberry cream cheese pinwheels?

Yes, you can substitute feta with goat cheese or even cheddar for a different flavor profile.

How do I make cranberry cream cheese pinwheels with feta and herbs ahead of time?

You can prepare the filling and assemble the pinwheels a day in advance. Store them in the fridge until ready to bake.

What types of herbs work best in these pinwheels?

Fresh parsley, thyme, or rosemary are excellent choices that complement the flavors beautifully.

Can I make these cranberry cream cheese pinwheels vegetarian?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegetarian, as it contains no meat ingredients.

How do I adjust cooking time if I double the recipe?

If you double the quantity, ensure not to overcrowd the baking sheet. Cooking time may increase by a few minutes; check for golden-brown color as an indicator.

Final Thoughts

These cranberry cream cheese pinwheels with feta and herbs are not just festive appetizers; they are also versatile enough for any gathering throughout the year. Feel free to customize them with your favorite ingredients or spices to suit your taste preferences. Try making this easy recipe today and impress your guests!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card