Cranberry Feta Pinwheels with Cream Cheese – Festive, Easy, and Flavorful

Byarlo Jack

Cranberry Feta Pinwheels with Cream Cheese are a delightful, bite-sized appetizer that perfectly balances tangy feta, creamy cheese, and the sweet-tart punch of cranberries. These pinwheels are quick to assemble, visually appealing, and ideal for holiday parties, brunches, or anytime you want a crowd-pleasing snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This appetizer combines creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors in every bite. The puff pastry or tortilla base provides a soft, buttery texture, while the cranberries add bursts of tartness and feta brings a savory depth. They’re easy to make ahead of time, can be served warm or cold, and always disappear quickly at parties.

Nutritional Info

  • Cream cheese and feta provide protein and calcium.
  • Cranberries add fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants.
  • Moderate in calories and fat; portion control is key for larger gatherings.

Time Taken

Total time: 25–30 minutes

  • Prep: 10 minutes
  • Assemble & Bake: 15–20 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 sheet puff pastry or large flour tortilla
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or parsley, chopped
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional: egg wash (1 beaten egg) for a golden finish if using puff pastry

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) if using puff pastry.
  2. Roll out puff pastry or tortilla on a lightly floured surface.
  3. In a small bowl, mix softened cream cheese, crumbled feta, cranberries, honey, herbs, salt, and pepper until combined.
  4. Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the pastry or tortilla, leaving a small border on the edges.
  5. Roll the pastry tightly into a log, pinching edges to seal if needed.
  6. Slice into 1/2–1-inch pinwheels and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  7. If using puff pastry, brush lightly with egg wash for a golden finish.
  8. Bake for 15–20 minutes until golden and puffed. For tortillas, no baking is required unless you prefer slightly warm pinwheels.
  9. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with extra herbs if desired.

You Must Know

Use softened cream cheese for easy spreading. Chopping cranberries finely ensures even distribution and easier rolling. Baking enhances puff pastry flakiness, while tortillas yield a softer, quicker alternative.

Storage Tips

  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat in the oven or toaster oven to restore crispiness if desired.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • Swap dried cranberries for dried cherries or apricots for a different flavor.
  • Use goat cheese instead of feta for a creamier, tangier bite.
  • Fresh herbs like rosemary or basil can replace thyme or parsley.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve as part of a holiday appetizer platter.
  • Pair with fresh fruit, nuts, or a light salad for brunch.
  • Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra flavor and presentation.

Seasonal Adaptations

  • Winter/Holidays: Use red and green toppings for festive appeal.
  • Spring: Add finely chopped fresh strawberries or herbs for a lighter flavor.
  • Year-round: Customize with different cheeses or dried fruits to suit any occasion.

Success Stories

Cranberry Feta Pinwheels are praised for their beautiful presentation, ease of preparation, and delicious flavor combination. Hosts often report they’re the first appetizer to disappear at parties, thanks to the sweet-tart-salty flavor profile.

Pro Tips

  • Chill the log in the fridge for 10–15 minutes before slicing to make cutting easier.
  • Brush egg wash sparingly to avoid soggy pastry.
  • Slice carefully with a sharp knife to maintain the swirl pattern.

Chef’s Special Tips

  • Sprinkle extra herbs or coarse salt on top before baking for a gourmet touch.
  • Serve with a cranberry or balsamic dipping sauce for added flair.
  • Layer a few toasted nuts inside for crunch and texture.

Conclusion

Cranberry Feta Pinwheels with Cream Cheese are a simple yet elegant appetizer that blends creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors in every bite. Perfect for holidays, brunch, or any special gathering, these pinwheels are easy to make, visually stunning, and irresistibly delicious. Try them today to impress your guests with a festive and flavorful treat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, assemble them and refrigerate until ready to bake or serve.

Can I freeze the pinwheels?
Yes, freeze before baking. Bake from frozen with a few extra minutes in the oven.

Can I use tortillas instead of puff pastry?
Absolutely—tortillas are quicker and easier, though they won’t be as flaky.

Can I make them vegan?
Use dairy-free cream cheese and plant-based feta alternatives.

How do I prevent the pastry from becoming soggy?
Avoid overfilling with the cheese mixture and brush lightly with egg wash.

Can I add nuts for extra texture?
Yes, finely chopped pecans or walnuts work beautifully.

Can I serve them cold?
Yes, they taste great at room temperature, making them convenient for parties.

How do I keep the swirl pattern intact when slicing?
Chill the rolled log for 10–15 minutes before cutting and use a sharp knife.