Cranberry Feta Pinwheels: Easy, Festive Appetizer!

Cranberry Feta Pinwheels are, in my humble opinion, the quintessential appetizer that effortlessly combines elegance with irresistible flavor. If you’re searching for a dish that will vanish from the platter in mere moments at your next gathering, look no further. This delightful creation isn’t just a snack; it’s a vibrant symphony of tastes and textures that consistently earns rave reviews. While the precise historical lineage of this specific combination might not stretch back centuries, it has undeniably carved out its own significant niche in modern culinary traditions, particularly during the festive holiday season. We’ve seen it evolve into a beloved staple, cherished for its bright colors and sophisticated simplicity.

Why Everyone Admires Cranberry Feta Pinwheels

What makes these Cranberry Feta Pinwheels so universally adored? I believe it’s the magical balance achieved: the subtle sweetness and tartness of dried cranberries perfectly complement the creamy, salty tang of feta cheese, all encased in a tender, flaky puff pastry. It’s a harmonious blend that is both comforting and exciting, making it ideal for everything from sophisticated cocktail parties to relaxed family brunches. Furthermore, their convenient, bite-sized format and the ease with which they can be prepared—even ahead of time—make them an absolute dream for any host. They truly embody convenience without compromising on taste or presentation.

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• Two sheets (17.3 oz / 490g total) frozen puff pastry, preferably all-butter for the best flavor and flakiness, thawed according to package directions. We’re looking for a delicate, airy texture that store-bought puff pastry delivers beautifully.
• 8 ounces (226g) cream cheese, full-fat and softened to room temperature. This is crucial for a smooth, lump-free filling that spreads easily.
• 6 ounces (170g) crumbled feta cheese. The tangy, salty notes of feta are a perfect counterpoint to the sweet cranberries. I love using a good quality, creamy feta for this.
• 1/2 cup (about 75g) dried cranberries, finely chopped. Chopping them ensures they are evenly distributed throughout our delicious Cranberry Feta Pinwheels and prevents large chunks that might tear the pastry.
• 1/4 cup (about 20g) thinly sliced green onions (scallions), both white and light green parts. These add a lovely, mild oniony freshness and a subtle crunch.
• 1/4 cup (about 30g) toasted pecans or walnuts, finely chopped (optional, but highly recommended for an extra layer of texture and nutty flavor).
• 1 teaspoon fresh orange zest (from about 1/2 a medium orange). This is another optional ingredient that I never skip; it adds an incredible bright, citrusy lift that truly elevates the flavor profile of your Cranberry Feta Pinwheels.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground, or to taste.
• 1/8 teaspoon salt, or to taste (remember feta is quite salty, so adjust accordingly).
• For the Egg Wash:
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon water

Preparation: Getting Everything Ready for Your Cranberry Feta Pinwheels

1. Thaw the Puff Pastry: This is our first crucial step. If your puff pastry is frozen solid, you’ll need to allow ample time for it to thaw. The best method is to transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator about 8-12 hours before you plan to bake, or even overnight. This gentle thawing prevents the pastry from becoming sticky or soggy. If you’re in a pinch, you can leave it at room temperature for about 30-45 minutes, but keep a very close eye on it. We want it pliable enough to unroll without cracking but still cold enough to handle without becoming overly soft and difficult to work with. If it gets too warm, the butter layers can start to melt, which will compromise the flakiness of your finished Cranberry Feta Pinwheels. Once thawed, keep the sheets flat and folded in their original parchment paper until you’re ready to use them.
2. Soften the Cream Cheese: For a perfectly smooth filling, your cream cheese absolutely needs to be at room temperature. Take it out of the refrigerator at least an hour or two before you start. If you forget, you can carefully soften it in the microwave: remove it from its foil wrapper, place it in a microwave-safe bowl, and microwave on high for 15-30 seconds, checking and stirring every 10 seconds. Be careful not to overheat it, as we just want it soft, not melted.
3. Prepare the Dried Cranberries: Using a sharp knife, finely chop your dried cranberries. This step ensures that the sweetness and chewiness of the cranberries are evenly distributed throughout the filling, making every bite of your Cranberry Feta Pinwheels a delightful experience. Small pieces also prevent them from clumping together or tearing the delicate puff pastry when you spread the filling.
4. Slice the Green Onions: Wash your green onions thoroughly. Trim off the root ends and any wilted green tips. Then, thinly slice both the white and the light green parts. The darker green parts can be a bit tougher and have a stronger flavor, so I usually reserve them for another dish or discard them for this recipe.
5. Toast and Chop Nuts (if using): If you’re including pecans or walnuts, toasting them first significantly deepens their flavor and adds an extra layer of satisfying crunch to your Cranberry Feta Pinwheels. You can do this in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant, or spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes. Let them cool completely before finely chopping them. This prevents them from releasing too much oil and making the filling greasy.
6. Zest the Orange: Using a microplane or a fine grater, carefully zest the orange, making sure to only get the bright orange peel and avoid the bitter white pith underneath. This aromatic zest adds a wonderful, bright citrus note that beautifully complements the cranberries and feta in our Cranberry Feta Pinwheels.

Crafting the Irresistible Cranberry Feta Filling

7. Combine the Wet Ingredients: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, place your softened cream cheese. It’s important that it’s properly softened, as this will ensure a silky-smooth base for our filling. Add the crumbled feta cheese to the bowl. I personally love using a good quality block of feta and crumbling it myself, as it often has a creamier texture and more authentic flavor than pre-crumbled varieties, but either will work wonderfully for your Cranberry Feta Pinwheels.
8. Mix Thoroughly: Using a sturdy spoon, a spatula, or even an electric mixer on low speed, mix the cream cheese and feta together until they are well combined and relatively smooth. While you won’t get rid of all the feta crumbles (and we don’t want to, as they provide great texture), ensure there are no large lumps of cream cheese. The mixture should be uniform and easy to spread.
9. Incorporate the Dry Add-ins: Now, gently fold in your finely chopped dried cranberries, sliced green onions, toasted and chopped nuts (if using), and the fresh orange zest. These are the stars that give our Cranberry Feta Pinwheels their signature flavor.
10. Season to Perfection: Add the freshly ground black pepper and a pinch of salt. Remember that feta cheese is inherently salty, so be cautious with added salt. Start with a small amount (like 1/8 teaspoon) and then taste the mixture. Adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more pepper or salt until the flavors are balanced to your liking. The goal is a harmonious blend of sweet, tangy, salty, and fresh. The cranberries provide sweetness and chew, the feta brings its characteristic brininess, the green onions add a hint of sharpness, and the orange zest brightens everything up. This careful balance is what makes these Cranberry Feta Pinwheels truly exceptional.

Assembling Your Stunning Cranberry Feta Pinwheels

11. Prepare Your Work Surface: Lightly flour a clean, dry work surface. Alternatively, you can use the parchment paper that came with your puff pastry. Gently unroll one sheet of the thawed puff pastry. If it feels a bit stiff, let it sit for another minute or two. If it’s too soft, place it back in the fridge for a few minutes. We need it to be pliable but still cool.
12. Roll Out the Pastry (if necessary): Most store-bought puff pastry sheets are already rolled to a perfect thickness (usually around 1/8 inch or 3mm). However, if your sheet isn’t perfectly rectangular or you want to ensure uniform thickness, you can gently roll it out slightly with a rolling pin. Aim for roughly a 9×12 or 10×13-inch rectangle. Be gentle and use minimal flour to avoid toughening the pastry.
13. Spread the Filling Evenly: Divide your cranberry feta filling in half. Take one half and, using an offset spatula or the back of a spoon, carefully spread it in an even layer over the entire surface of the puff pastry sheet, going all the way to the edges. Ensure the thickness is consistent to guarantee uniform baking and flavor distribution in every Cranberry Feta Pinwheel. Take your time with this step; an even layer is key to beautifully shaped pinwheels.
14. Roll It Up Tightly: Starting from one of the long edges of the pastry, carefully and tightly roll the pastry sheet into a log. The tighter you roll it, the more defined and appealing your pinwheel spirals will be. Be firm but gentle to avoid squishing the filling out. Aim for a consistent diameter along the entire length of the log. If the pastry starts to stick to itself, a very light dusting of flour on your hands can help, but this is usually not necessary if the pastry is at the right temperature. This log is the foundation of our delightful Cranberry Feta Pinwheels.
15. Chill the Log: This step is non-negotiable for perfectly sliced pinwheels. Wrap the rolled log tightly in plastic wrap or parchment paper and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. Chilling allows the pastry to firm up and the filling to set, making it much easier to slice clean, neat rounds without squishing them. If you skip this, your pinwheels will likely be misshapen. You can even chill it in the freezer for 15-20 minutes if you’re really short on time, but watch it closely so it doesn’t freeze solid.
16. Repeat with Second Pastry Sheet: While the first log is chilling, repeat steps 11-15 with the second sheet of puff pastry and the remaining half of the filling.
17. Preheat Your Oven: While the second log chills or as you get ready to slice, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the oven is at the correct temperature when your pinwheels are ready to bake, which is crucial for puff pastry to rise properly. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper. Parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
18. Slice the Pinwheels: Once your pastry logs are thoroughly chilled and firm, unwrap one log. Using a very sharp knife, carefully slice the log into rounds about 1/2-inch thick. A gentle sawing motion works best to prevent squishing. Don’t press straight down too hard, as this can flatten your beautiful spirals. If the knife gets sticky, wipe it clean between slices. You should get about 12-15 Cranberry Feta Pinwheels from each log, depending on how thick you slice them. Thinner slices will be crispier, while thicker ones will be softer in the center.
19. Arrange on Baking Sheets: Place the sliced pinwheels cut-side up on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 1 inch of space between each pinwheel. They will puff up and spread slightly during baking, so adequate spacing ensures even cooking and prevents them from sticking together.
20. Apply the Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the large egg and 1 tablespoon of water until well combined. This is your egg wash. Using a pastry brush, lightly brush the tops and sides of each Cranberry Feta Pinwheel with the egg wash. This step is essential for achieving that beautiful golden-brown, shiny finish that makes baked goods look so appealing. It also helps with browning and creating a slightly crisp exterior.

Baking Your Delicious Cranberry Feta Pinwheels to Golden Perfection

21. Bake in the Preheated Oven: Carefully transfer the baking sheets to your preheated 400°F (200°C) oven. If you’re baking both sheets at once, place one on the upper-middle rack and the other on the lower-middle rack.
22. Rotate for Even Baking: After about 10-12 minutes, rotate the baking sheets from front to back and swap their positions (top to bottom). This helps ensure even baking and browning, especially if your oven has hot spots. You want all your Cranberry Feta Pinwheels to be uniformly golden and puffed.
23. Continue Baking: Continue baking for another 8-12 minutes, or until the puff pastry is beautifully golden brown, puffed up, and cooked through. The exact baking time can vary depending on your oven and the thickness of your pinwheels, so keep an eye on them. The filling might bubble slightly, which is perfectly normal. You’re looking for a crisp exterior and a fully baked interior. If they start browning too quickly, you can loosely tent them with aluminum foil for the last few minutes, but typically this isn’t necessary. The aroma filling your kitchen will be absolutely incredible, letting you know your Cranberry Feta Pinwheels are almost ready!
24. Cool Slightly: Once baked, remove the baking sheets from the oven. Let the Cranberry Feta Pinwheels cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This initial cooling period allows them to set slightly, making them less fragile and easier to move.

Serving Suggestions & Storage Tips for Your Cranberry Feta Pinwheels

25. Serve Warm or at Room Temperature: These Cranberry Feta Pinwheels are truly versatile and delicious both warm, straight from the oven, or at room temperature. When warm, the cheese filling is softer and gooier, while at room temperature, the flavors meld beautifully, making them an excellent make-ahead appetizer. They are fantastic for holiday gatherings, brunch, or just a simple snack. Arrange them artfully on a platter for an impressive presentation. You can even garnish the platter with a few extra fresh cranberry halves or orange zest for a pop of color.
26. Storage: If you happen to have any leftover Cranberry Feta Pinwheels (which is a rare occurrence in my house!), they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. While they won’t be as flaky as when freshly baked, they will still retain their wonderful flavor.
27. Reheating (Optional): To enjoy them warm again, you can gently reheat them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through. Be careful not to overheat, as the pastry can dry out. You can also quickly warm them in a toaster oven. For best results and to regain some crispness, avoid reheating in a microwave, which can make the pastry soft and chewy. These Cranberry Feta Pinwheels are delightful as a quick grab-and-go snack even when cold, making them perfect for lunchboxes or a light bite.

Welcome to the grand finale of our culinary adventure! I truly believe this recipe for Cranberry Feta Pinwheels is a culinary gem you absolutely must add to your repertoire. From the moment you present them, their vibrant colors – the rich crimson of the dried cranberries against the creamy white feta and the golden-brown edges of the flaky pastry – instantly capture attention. But it’s not just their visual appeal; the symphony of flavors is what truly sets them apart. Each bite delivers a delightful interplay of sweet, tangy, and savory notes, all encased in a tender, buttery, and utterly irresistible pastry. They are surprisingly simple to make, yet they taste incredibly gourmet, making them perfect for both impromptu snacking and elegant entertaining. Imagine the look on your guests’ faces as they discover this harmonious blend of textures and tastes; it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for the recipe.

This isn’t just another appetizer; it’s a versatile star that shines brightly in a multitude of settings. Picture these delectable bites gracing your holiday spread, adding a touch of festive elegance and unexpected flavor. Imagine them as a sophisticated starter for a dinner party, effortlessly impressing your guests with minimal effort on your part. Or perhaps, a delightful and unique addition to a brunch buffet, offering a savory counterpoint to sweeter dishes like pancakes or fruit tarts. Their inherent portability also makes them an ideal candidate for picnics, potlucks, or even a gourmet packed lunch that will surely be the envy of your colleagues. The ease with which these come together belies their incredible flavor profile, making them a fantastic option for seasoned home cooks and beginners alike. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can transform a handful of simple ingredients into something truly extraordinary that garners rave reviews every single time you serve them. It’s a testament to the power of a few key ingredients working in perfect harmony, culminating in a snack or appetizer that feels both comforting and exceptionally refined.

Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Pinwheels:

While these Cranberry Feta Pinwheels are utterly delicious on their own, whether served at room temperature or slightly warmed to bring out the gooeyness and aromatic qualities of the cheese, their potential extends even further with thoughtful pairings. Consider arranging them on a beautiful platter alongside a small bowl of high-quality balsamic glaze, allowing guests to drizzle it themselves for an extra touch of sweetness and acidity that perfectly complements the savory notes. They also pair wonderfully with a crisp, light salad featuring a vibrant citrus vinaigrette, offering a delightful contrast in textures and flavors. For a heartier option, these pinwheels can serve as an exquisite side dish, complementing a comforting bowl of tomato soup, a simple roasted chicken, or a pan-seared fish dish, elevating a weeknight meal into something truly special and memorable. You could also serve them with a fresh fruit platter, allowing the sweetness of berries or melon to cut through the richness of the feta and pastry, creating a balanced and refreshing spread. Don’t underestimate their power as a sophisticated component of a cheese board, adding a unique texture and flavor profile among traditional crackers and cheeses.

Unleash Your Creativity with Exciting Variations:

The true beauty of these pinwheels lies not only in their existing perfection but also in their incredible adaptability. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make this recipe your own! If feta isn’t your absolute favorite, consider swapping it for tangy goat cheese, creamy ricotta, a sharp crumbly cheddar, or even a blend of cheeses for a different and equally delightful flavor profile. Dried apricots or sun-dried tomatoes (chopped finely) can stand in for cranberries, adding their own unique sweetness, chewiness, or savory depth. For an extra layer of texture and nutty richness, try sprinkling in some finely chopped toasted pecans, walnuts, or even pistachios before rolling the dough. Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme, minced finely, can infuse an aromatic depth that is truly captivating, adding an earthy, sophisticated note. A tiny pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce a subtle warmth and gentle spice, while a generous grind of black pepper enhances all the existing flavors, making them sing. For those looking for a different base, gluten-free tortillas or even homemade puff pastry can be used instead of crescent dough, offering slightly different textures and suitability for various dietary needs or preferences. Imagine a version with crispy prosciutto or bacon bits for an added layer of salty umami. The possibilities are truly endless, allowing you to tailor this recipe to your personal preferences, what you have on hand, or the specific occasion you are preparing for. Let your imagination be your guide and transform these pinwheels into your signature creation.

So, my friend, what are you waiting for? I wholeheartedly encourage you to carve out some time in your kitchen soon and experience the magic of these Cranberry Feta Pinwheels for yourself. You’ll not only be rewarded with an incredibly delicious treat that brightens any table but also the immense satisfaction of creating something beautiful, impressive, and utterly delightful with your own hands. It’s a wonderful feeling to bake something from scratch and see the joy it brings to others. Once you’ve whipped up your batch and perhaps even experimented with some of the suggested variations, I would be absolutely thrilled to hear about your culinary journey. Did you stick faithfully to the original recipe, or did you venture into exciting new flavor combinations? What did your friends and family think of your creation? Please, take a moment to share your thoughts, your photos, and your triumphs in the comments section below or feel free to tag me on social media. Your feedback and experiences inspire me and the entire cooking community to keep exploring new flavors and techniques. Let’s make some delicious memories together! Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with wonderful aromas!

Cranberry Feta Pinwheels: Easy, Festive Appetizer!

These Cranberry Feta Pinwheels are the quintessential appetizer, effortlessly combining elegance with irresistible flavor. A vibrant symphony of tastes and textures, they’re perfect for any gathering, especially during the festive holiday season. The subtle sweetness and tartness of dried cranberries perfectly complement the creamy, salty tang of feta cheese, all encased in a tender, flaky puff pastry.

Prep Time
30 Minutes

Cook Time
25 Minutes

Total Time
15 Minutes

Servings
24-30 pinwheels

Ingredients

• 2 sheets (490g) frozen puff pastry, thawed
• 8 oz (226g) cream cheese, softened
• 6 oz (170g) crumbled feta cheese
• 1/2 cup (75g) dried cranberries, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup (20g) thinly sliced green onions
• 1/4 cup (30g) chopped toasted pecans or walnuts (optional)
• 1 tsp fresh orange zest (optional)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/8 tsp salt
• Egg Wash: 1 large egg
• Egg Wash: 1 tbsp water

Instructions

1. Step 1
   Thaw puff pastry, soften cream cheese. Finely chop dried cranberries, thinly slice green onions, and finely chop optional toasted pecans or walnuts. Zest orange.
2. Step 2
   In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese and crumbled feta. Mix until smooth. Fold in chopped cranberries, green onions, optional nuts, orange zest, black pepper, and salt. Taste and adjust seasoning.
3. Step 3
   Lightly flour a surface, unroll one puff pastry sheet. Evenly spread half of the filling over the entire sheet. Tightly roll from a long edge into a log. Wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Repeat with the second pastry sheet and remaining filling.
4. Step 4
   Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.
5. Step 5
   Once logs are chilled, unwrap and slice each into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Place pinwheels cut-side up on prepared baking sheets, leaving 1 inch between them.
6. Step 6
   Whisk 1 egg with 1 tbsp water for an egg wash; brush over pinwheels. Bake for 18-24 minutes (10-12 minutes initially, then rotate/swap sheets, bake for another 8-12 minutes), until golden brown and puffed.
7. Step 7
   Let cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature, artfully arranged on a platter.
8. Step 8
   Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-10 minutes, or in a toaster oven. Avoid microwave reheating.

Important Information

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.