Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe kitchen filled with a warm, inviting aroma as the holiday season approached, and I couldn’t help but feel the excitement bubbling within me. Have you ever been on the hunt for the perfect appetizer that balances elegance with ease? Look no further than these delightful Christmas Cranberry Feta Pinwheels! Nestled in buttery, flaky puff pastry, each bite combines the tartness of cranberries with the creamy saltiness of feta cheese, making them the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Not only are they a breeze to whip up, but they’re also incredibly versatile for any dietary need—whether you’re cooking for vegetarians or looking for simple gluten-free options. Ready to impress your guests with minimal fuss? Let’s dive into this festive recipe together! Why You’ll Love These Pinwheels Irresistible Flavor Combination: The sweet tartness of cranberries perfectly balances the salty creaminess of feta, creating a fantastic explosion of flavors in every bite. Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen. This makes them perfect for last-minute holiday gatherings! Versatile Ingredients: Feeling adventurous? Swap out the feta for goat cheese or add a hint of heat with red pepper flakes for a personalized touch. Diet-Friendly Options: These pinwheels are adaptable for gluten-free diets with the right puff pastry choice, making them inclusive for everyone at the table. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfectly sized for parties, they’ll disappear before you know it! Pair them with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a glass of sparkling cider for that festive touch. Try making these alongside other delightful recipes like the Feta Cranberry Rigatoni or the refreshing Cucumber Feta Salad, and watch your holiday spread shine! Christmas Cranberry Feta Pinwheels Ingredients For the Pastry • Puff Pastry – This flaky base is essential; opt for all-butter for the best flavor and texture. For the Filling • Cream Cheese – Softened at room temperature, it adds a creamy richness to the filling. • Feta Cheese – Its salty, tangy goodness pairs beautifully with cranberries; swap with goat cheese for a milder flavor. • Dried Cranberries – Sweet and vibrant, finely chop them for even distribution in your filling. • Fresh Rosemary & Thyme – Fresh herbs bring an aromatic depth; dried herbs can be used in a pinch. • Light Brown Sugar – Just a touch to balance the tartness of the cranberries; you can substitute with honey if preferred. • Black Pepper – A subtle spice that enhances the overall flavor without overpowering the dish. • Garlic Powder (optional) – Use this for an extra layer of savory flavor, based on your taste. For the Egg Wash • Egg – This gives the pinwheels a gorgeous golden finish; remember to beat it well! • Water or Milk – Mix with the egg for that glossy, beautiful pastry finish. Optional Garnishes • Fresh Rosemary Sprigs – For a festive touch of color on your presentation plate. • Whole Cranberries – They make for an inviting, beautiful garnish, perfect for any holiday spread. Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s make magic in the kitchen! These Christmas Cranberry Feta Pinwheels are just moments away from becoming a dazzling centerpiece at your festive gathering. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Cranberry Feta Pinwheels Step 1: Prepare Filling Begin by beating 8 ounces of softened cream cheese in a mixing bowl until fluffy, about 2 minutes. Gradually fold in 4 ounces of crumbled feta, 1 cup of finely chopped dried cranberries, 2 tablespoons each of fresh rosemary and thyme, 2 tablespoons of light brown sugar, and a pinch of black pepper. Ensure all ingredients are well combined before moving to the next step. Step 2: Roll First Pastry On a lightly floured surface, roll out one sheet of all-butter puff pastry into a rectangle approximately 12×10 inches. Spoon half of the cranberry filling evenly onto the pastry, leaving a ½-inch border around the edges. Carefully roll the pastry tightly into a log, sealing the edges well to prevent any filling from escaping. Step 3: Chill Log Wrap the filled pastry log in plastic wrap and place it in the freezer for about 15-20 minutes, or in the refrigerator for 30-45 minutes. Chilling the log will firm it up, making it easier to slice later into uniform rounds for your Christmas Cranberry Feta Pinwheels. Step 4: Slice Log Once chilled, remove the log from the freezer or fridge. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice the log into ½-inch thick rounds. Lay the sliced pinwheels flat, ensuring they maintain their circular shape. Arrange them onto a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer, keeping some space between each pinwheel. Step 5: Repeat for Second Log Repeat the rolling and filling process with the second sheet of puff pastry, using the remaining cranberry filling. After rolling and sealing, chill this second log as you did the first. Once firm, slice into rounds and place them on a separate parchment-lined baking sheet. Step 6: Bake Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, whisk together 1 egg with a splash of water or milk to create an egg wash. Brush the tops of each pinwheel with the egg wash to achieve a shiny, golden finish. Bake both trays for 15-20 minutes or until the pinwheels puff up and turn golden brown. Step 7: Cool and Serve After baking, allow the Christmas Cranberry Feta Pinwheels to cool slightly on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack. Serve them warm or at room temperature, garnished with fresh rosemary sprigs and whole cranberries if desired. What to Serve with Easy Christmas Cranberry Feta Pinwheels A festive gathering calls for delightful pairings that elevate your holiday spread and create memorable moments. Sparkling Cider: The bubbly sweetness of sparkling cider enhances the tart cranberries in the pinwheels, making for a refreshing sip between bites. Winter Salad: A mixed greens salad with pomegranate seeds and a citrus vinaigrette adds a bright, fresh contrast to the creamy pinwheels. Creamy Potato Gratin: Rich, cheesy gratin introduces a wonderful contrast in texture and heartiness, making for a well-rounded holiday meal. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts bring both crunch and earthy depth, beautifully harmonizing with the sweet and tangy flavors of the dish. Balsamic Glaze Drizzle: A light drizzle of balsamic vinegar adds a zesty touch that highlights the flavors of both the cranberries and feta cheese. Herbed Cheese Platter: Pair your pinwheels with a variety of cheeses, nuts, and olives for a charming appetizer board that encourages easy mingling. Mulled Wine: A warm, spiced mulled wine rounds off your festive feast, providing a cozy atmosphere that complements the richness of the pinwheels. Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: There’s always room for dessert! Sweet, tart strawberries dipped in luscious chocolate make a delightful ending to your holiday meal. With these pairings, your Christmas Cranberry Feta Pinwheels will shine even brighter during the festive celebration! Christmas Cranberry Feta Pinwheels Variations Feel free to get creative with your Christmas Cranberry Feta Pinwheels and customize them to suit your taste! Cream Cheese Swap: Replace cream cheese with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist while maintaining creaminess. Nutty Delight: Add chopped toasted pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft filling. They’ll provide a lovely texture! Herb-Infused: Boost the herbal flavor by mixing in a touch of fresh parsley or chives along with the rosemary and thyme for an aromatic uplift. Spicy Kick: Introduce a pinch of red pepper flakes into your filling for a zesty kick that elevates the entire flavor profile. Savory Addition: For a heartier option, mix in finely chopped cooked ham or turkey to add some savory depth that’s sure to please the meat lovers at your gathering. Sweet Citrus: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest for a bright, citrusy note that beautifully complements the sweetness of cranberries. Vegan Version: Substitute cream cheese and feta with vegan alternatives made from nuts—great for accommodating plant-based friends. Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free puff pastry to make these pinwheels inclusive for gluten-sensitive guests while still keeping all that festive flavor. No matter how you customize your pinwheels, they’ll pair wonderfully with a delicious drink. For more flavor-packed options, check out the refreshing Blueberry Peach Feta salad or the delicious Cucumber Feta Salad as accompaniments to your festive spread! How to Store and Freeze Christmas Cranberry Feta Pinwheels Fridge: Store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for quick snacking! Freezer: For longer storage, wrap unbaked pinwheels tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month. Bake them directly from frozen; just add an extra 5 minutes to the baking time. Reheating: If you have leftover baked pinwheels, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes for that lovely crispness. Preparing Ahead: You can make the filling and roll the pastry log up to 24 hours in advance. Just wrap it well and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to slice and bake your Christmas Cranberry Feta Pinwheels! Expert Tips for Christmas Cranberry Feta Pinwheels Keep Ingredients Room Temperature: Make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother filling texture. Chill for Clean Cuts: Always chill the rolled pastry log before slicing; this helps you achieve clean, uniform rounds for your Christmas Cranberry Feta Pinwheels. Choose Quality Puff Pastry: For the best flavor and flakiness, opt for high-quality all-butter puff pastry; it’s worth the little extra. Experiment Wisely: Feel free to swap out cheeses or add nuts, but be cautious not to oversaturate the filling, so it holds together well. Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on your pinwheels while they bake; ovens vary, and you want the pastry to be perfectly golden without burning. Serve Fresh: For the best taste, serve your pinwheels warm straight from the oven. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures! Make Ahead Options These Easy Christmas Cranberry Feta Pinwheels are a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a stress-free holiday gathering! You can prepare the filling and roll the pastry logs up to 24 hours in advance; just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. This keeps the flavors fresh and prevents the pastry from becoming soggy. When you’re ready to serve, slice the logs into rounds and bake them directly from the fridge for about 15-20 minutes until golden and flaky. With this prep strategy, you’ll save valuable time and impress your guests with minimal effort—all while enjoying these delightful pinwheels just as delicious as if made fresh! Christmas Cranberry Feta Pinwheels Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right puff pastry? Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using high-quality all-butter puff pastry. This type of pastry not only creates a flakier result but also enhances the overall taste of your Christmas Cranberry Feta Pinwheels. How should I store leftover pinwheels? After making your delicious pinwheels, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for a quick snack, making them perfect for those post-holiday gatherings. Can I freeze unbaked pinwheels? Very much so! To freeze unbaked pinwheels, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw; simply add about 5 extra minutes to your baking time. What’s the best way to reheat baked pinwheels? To retain that lovely crispiness, reheat baked pinwheels in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for around 10-12 minutes. This will rejuvenate their flaky texture and make them as delightful as when they were freshly baked. Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind? Certainly! These pinwheels can be easily adapted for dietary needs. Simply use gluten-free puff pastry to cater to those avoiding gluten. For dairy-free options, consider substituting the cream cheese and feta with plant-based counterparts, ensuring everyone can enjoy these festive bites! Delicious Christmas Cranberry Feta Pinwheels for Festive Feasts Enjoy these Christmas Cranberry Feta Pinwheels, a perfect balance of flavors that makes festive gatherings easy and elegant. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsChilling Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins Servings: 16 pinwheelsCourse: AppetizersCuisine: AmericanCalories: 120 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pastry2 sheets all-butter puff pastryFor the Filling8 ounces cream cheese softened4 ounces feta cheese crumbled1 cup dried cranberries finely chopped2 tablespoons fresh rosemary2 tablespoons fresh thyme2 tablespoons light brown sugar1 pinch black pepper1 teaspoon garlic powder optionalFor the Egg Wash1 large egg beaten1 tablespoon waterOptional Garnishes4 sprigs fresh rosemary Equipment Mixing bowlSharp knifeBaking sheetParchment PaperPlastic wrap Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Christmas Cranberry Feta PinwheelsBeat 8 ounces of softened cream cheese in a mixing bowl until fluffy, about 2 minutes. Gradually fold in 4 ounces of crumbled feta, 1 cup of finely chopped dried cranberries, 2 tablespoons each of fresh rosemary and thyme, 2 tablespoons of light brown sugar, and a pinch of black pepper.On a lightly floured surface, roll out one sheet of all-butter puff pastry into a rectangle approximately 12x10 inches. Spoon half of the cranberry filling evenly onto the pastry, leaving a ½-inch border. Carefully roll the pastry tightly into a log, sealing the edges.Wrap the filled pastry log in plastic wrap and place it in the freezer for about 15-20 minutes, or in the refrigerator for 30-45 minutes.Once chilled, remove the log from the freezer or fridge. Using a sharp knife, slice the log into ½-inch thick rounds. Lay the sliced pinwheels flat onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.Repeat the rolling and filling process with the second sheet of puff pastry, using the remaining cranberry filling. Chill this second log as before and slice into rounds.Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Whisk together 1 egg with a splash of water to create an egg wash. Brush the tops of each pinwheel with the egg wash. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.Allow the pinwheels to cool slightly on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished as desired. Nutrition Serving: 1pinwheelCalories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 4gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 50mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 60mgIron: 1mg NotesFor the best taste, serve your pinwheels warm straight from the oven. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures! Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
