Why Make This Recipe
Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs are a delightful treat that combines sweet and savory flavors in a fun and easy-to-make snack. These pinwheels are perfect for parties, gatherings, or even a simple afternoon snack. With the crispiness of puff pastry and the creamy filling, these pinwheels are sure to impress your guests or family. They are also quick to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making them a convenient option for any occasion.
How to Make Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs
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)
Directions
- Unroll the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Roll it out slightly to even the surface.
- In a bowl, mix the cream cheese with the crumbled feta and chopped herbs until smooth.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the pastry, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle the cranberries on top.
- Roll the pastry tightly into a log from the long edge. Slice the log into ½-inch pieces.
- Arrange the slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet and brush them with the beaten egg.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes or until golden brown and puffed. Let cool slightly before serving.
How to Serve Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs
These pinwheels are versatile and can be served warm or at room temperature. They make a great appetizer or snack on their own, but they can also be accompanied by a dipping sauce or a light salad. Arrange them on a platter for an eye-catching presentation, and watch them disappear in no time!
How to Store Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs
To store any leftover pinwheels, place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator. They can be enjoyed cold or warmed up in the oven for a few minutes. If you want to freeze them, it’s best to do so before baking. Wrap unbaked pinwheels in plastic wrap and keep them in the freezer. When you are ready to enjoy them, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Tips to Make Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs
- Make sure your puff pastry is fully thawed before using it for the best results.
- Feel free to adjust the herbs according to your taste. Basil or dill could also work well in this recipe.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder to the cream cheese mixture.
Variation
You can customize these pinwheels by adding different ingredients. Consider including chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for added crunch, or swapping cranberries for other fruits like apricots or figs for a different flavor profile.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought cream cheese?
Yes, store-bought cream cheese works perfectly for this recipe. Just make sure it’s softened for easier mixing.
What if I can’t find fresh herbs?
You can use dried herbs if fresh ones are not available. Just use about one-third of the amount, as dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.
How long can I store the leftovers?
You can store the baked pinwheels in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If stored unbaked and frozen, they can last up to 2 months.
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