A Festive Puff Pastry Appetizer for Every Celebration
Few appetizers manage to feel both effortlessly elegant and irresistibly comforting, but Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs do exactly that. With their flaky golden layers, vibrant jewel-toned cranberries, and creamy, savory filling, these pinwheels instantly elevate any table they land on. They are the kind of appetizer that guests reach for “just one more” time and again, long after they promised themselves they were done snacking.
At the heart of this recipe is a beautiful balance of flavors and textures. Buttery puff pastry bakes into crisp, airy layers that shatter delicately with every bite. Inside, smooth cream cheese forms a rich base that carries the tangy depth of crumbled feta. Tart cranberries cut through the creaminess with bright bursts of flavor, while fresh herbs add an aromatic, savory note that keeps the pinwheels grounded and well-rounded. The result is a bite that feels festive, indulgent, and thoughtfully composed.
Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs are especially popular during the fall and winter months, when cranberries are abundant and gatherings fill the calendar. They shine on holiday appetizer tables, cocktail parties, brunch spreads, and even casual get-togethers. Their red-and-green color palette naturally complements seasonal décor, making them as visually appealing as they are delicious.
One of the most appealing aspects of this recipe is how simple it is to prepare. By starting with store-bought puff pastry, you skip hours of labor while still achieving bakery-worthy results. The filling comes together in minutes, and the rolling-and-slicing process is straightforward, even for beginner cooks. Despite their elegant appearance, these pinwheels are wonderfully approachable.
Another reason these pinwheels are a favorite is their flexibility. They can be assembled ahead of time, stored in the refrigerator or freezer, and baked just before serving. This makes them ideal for hosts who want to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying their guests.
Why You’ll Love Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs
There are countless reasons this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your appetizer rotation:
- They are quick to prepare with minimal hands-on time
- The flavors are balanced and crowd-pleasing
- They look beautiful and festive on any serving platter
- They are easy to make ahead, perfect for entertaining
- The recipe is customizable without losing its charm
Whether you are planning a formal celebration or a cozy weekend brunch, Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs fit the moment perfectly.
Time Overview
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Baking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 20–24 pinwheels
- Serving Size: Serves 6–8 as an appetizer
Ingredients (With Measurements)
For the Pinwheels
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed according to package instructions
- 4 ounces (½ cup) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- ½ cup cranberries, dried or fresh, finely chopped
- ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons fresh herbs, finely chopped
- Parsley, thyme, rosemary, or a combination
- 1 large egg, beaten (for brushing the pastry)
Kitchen Tools Needed
- Large baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Small mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Rolling pin (optional)
- Pastry brush
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup. Place the baking sheet aside while you prepare the pinwheels.
Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Lightly flour your work surface and place the thawed puff pastry sheet on top. If the pastry has creases from packaging, gently roll it out with a rolling pin until smooth and evenly thick. Take care not to overwork the dough, as puff pastry relies on delicate layers for proper rising.
Step 3: Mix the Cream Cheese Filling
In a small mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese and crumbled feta cheese. Stir until smooth and well combined. Add the chopped fresh herbs and mix again until evenly distributed. The filling should be creamy, spreadable, and fragrant with herbs.
Step 4: Spread the Filling
Using a spatula or the back of a spoon, spread the cream cheese mixture evenly across the puff pastry. Leave a ½-inch border around all edges. This border helps keep the filling contained when rolling and baking.
Step 5: Add the Cranberries
Sprinkle the chopped cranberries evenly over the cream cheese layer. Distribute them gently so each slice will contain a balanced amount of cranberry without overwhelming the filling.
Step 6: Roll the Pastry
Starting from one long edge, carefully roll the puff pastry into a tight log. Roll slowly and evenly, keeping the pastry snug without compressing it too much. Once fully rolled, gently pinch the seam to seal.
If the pastry feels soft or warm, place the log in the refrigerator for 10–15 minutes to firm up before slicing.
Step 7: Slice into Pinwheels
Using a sharp knife, slice the log into ½-inch thick rounds. Clean the knife between cuts if necessary to maintain neat edges. Arrange the pinwheels flat on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a small amount of space between each one.
Step 8: Brush with Egg Wash
Lightly brush the tops of the pinwheels with the beaten egg using a pastry brush. This step ensures a glossy, golden finish once baked.
Step 9: Bake
Place the baking sheet on the center rack of the oven. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the pinwheels are puffed, crisp, and evenly golden. The edges should be flaky, and the centers should be fully cooked.
Step 10: Cool and Serve
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the pinwheels to cool for 2–3 minutes before transferring them to a serving platter. Serve warm for the best texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs pair beautifully with:
- Yogurt-based herb dips
- Sparkling cranberry or citrus beverages
- Cheese and fruit boards
- Creamy soups or crisp green salads
They also work well as part of a brunch spread alongside eggs, roasted vegetables, and fresh bread.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigeration: Store baked pinwheels in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Freezing: Freeze unbaked pinwheel slices on a tray, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag
- Baking from frozen: Bake at 400°F (200°C), adding 3–5 minutes to the baking time
- Reheating: Reheat baked pinwheels at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes
Helpful Tips for Best Results
- Keep puff pastry cold until ready to use
- Avoid overfilling to prevent leaks
- Chill the rolled log before slicing if needed
- Always bake on parchment paper
- Taste the filling before spreading and adjust herbs if desired
Final Thoughts
Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs are the perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. They are flaky, creamy, tangy, and beautifully festive, making them ideal for holidays, brunches, and entertaining year-round. Easy to prepare yet impressive to serve, this recipe is one you’ll return to whenever you want an appetizer that feels both comforting and celebratory.
