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These cranberry cream cheese pinwheels are a simple and elegant snack or appetizer that come together quickly using puff pastry. They bring a perfect balance of creamy tang and fruity sweetness with a salty kick from feta and the freshness of herbs. They work great for unexpected guests or as a charming addition to any party spread.
I first made these when I wanted a quick but impressive treat and now they are a staple for holiday gatherings and casual weekends alike.
Ingredients
- Sheet of puff pastry: provides a flaky and buttery base, choose one thoroughly thawed to avoid cracks
- Cream cheese: adds rich creaminess, softened for easy spreading
- Cranberry sauce or chopped dried cranberries: bring bright fruity sweetness; fresh and vibrant flavor shines through
- Feta cheese: offers a salty contrast that lifts the flavor, opt for a crumbly block rather than pre-crumbled for better texture
- Fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary: add aromatic brightness, use fresh and finely chopped for the best impact
- Egg wash: made with beaten egg and water gives the pinwheels a beautiful golden sheen and helps sealing
Instructions
- Build The Base:
- Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface gently pressing out creases to create an even layer that will bake consistently.
- Spread The Cream Cheese:
- Evenly cover the surface with softened cream cheese leaving a small border to prevent overflow when rolling. This creamy layer binds the fillings and keeps the pinwheels moist.
- Add The Flavors:
- Scatter cranberry sauce or chopped dried cranberries uniformly for bursts of sweetness. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top, followed by fresh chopped herbs to infuse flavor throughout every bite.
- Roll And Slice:
- Starting from one long edge, roll the pastry tightly into a log to hold the filling compactly. Slice into approximately 1 inch thick pinwheels for even baking and appealing portion sizes.
- Prepare For Baking:
- Place pinwheels cut side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet leaving space to puff. Brush with egg wash for that golden crust and shiny finish.
- Bake To Perfection:
- Cook in a preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about 18 to 22 minutes or until puffed and golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving to set structure.
Cranberry always reminds me of cozy holidays with family around the kitchen. The combination of sweet and salty here is nostalgic yet fresh. Using fresh herbs makes a big difference; I learned the hard way that skipping them leaves the pinwheels feeling flat.
Storage Tips
Store cooled pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a toaster oven to refresh the crispiness. For longer storage, they freeze well when wrapped individually before baking.
Ingredient Swaps
Try goat cheese instead of feta for a creamier tang. Spinach or kale finely chopped can be added to the herbs for a green boost. Use orange zest in the cream cheese for a citrus twist.
Serving Ideas
These pinwheels shine as party finger foods paired with a crisp salad or a warm soup. They also elevate a simple brunch plate with fresh fruit and smoked salmon.
These pinwheels combine ease and elegance perfectly with layers of flavor in each bite.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → What type of puff pastry works best?
Use store-bought frozen puff pastry sheets thawed according to package instructions for best flakiness and ease.
- → Can I substitute the herbs?
Yes, fresh herbs like thyme or chives can be swapped in to suit your flavor preference without overpowering the filling.
- → How do I prevent the filling from leaking out during baking?
Rolling tightly and sealing the edges well before slicing helps keep the filling contained and the pinwheels intact.
- → Is it possible to prepare these ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can assemble and slice them, then refrigerate until ready to bake, ensuring freshness and convenience.
- → What can I serve with these pinwheels?
They pair wonderfully with crisp salads or a simple dipping sauce like a herbed yogurt or honey mustard.