Cranberry Feta Pinwheels Recipe is a simple, tasty and colorful appetizer. They are perfect for parties, brunch or snacks. The sweet cranberries and salty feta cheese create a delicious flavor combination.
Flaky puff pastry or crescent dough makes the pinwheels soft and golden. You can prepare them quickly and serve warm or cold. They are eye-catching and fun to eat.
This recipe is easy enough for beginners and always impresses guests. In this blog, I will show you how to make Cranberry Feta Pinwheels, including ingredients, step-by-step instructions, tips and serving suggestions.
My Experience With This Recipe
I first made Cranberry Feta Pinwheels during a holiday brunch. I wanted a colorful, easy appetizer that everyone would enjoy. The combination of sweet cranberries and creamy feta was amazing.
The pinwheels baked golden and flaky, making the table look festive. My friends loved them and asked for the recipe. I liked that they were quick to prepare and required few ingredients. Now I make them often for parties, brunches and snacks. They are always a crowd favorite.
Recipe Card Info
- Recipe Name: Cranberry Feta Pinwheels
- Servings: 12-15 pinwheels
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Total Time: 35 mins
- Course: Appetizer / Snack
- Cuisine: American
- Calories: 120 kcal per pinwheel
Equipment List
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowl
- Knife or pizza cutter
- Spoon or small spatula
- Rolling pin (optional)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven mitts
Ingredients You Need for Cranberry Feta Pinwheels
- 1 sheet puff pastry or crescent dough, thawed
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tbsp cream cheese, softened
- 1 tsp honey
- 1/2 tsp black pepper (optional)
- 1/2 tsp fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Step-by-Step Guide
- Preheat Oven
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. - Prepare Dough
Unfold puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Roll slightly to make an even rectangle. - Mix Filling
In a bowl, combine feta cheese, cream cheese, cranberries, honey, pepper and herbs. Mix until uniform. - Spread Filling
Spread the mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a small border on edges to seal pinwheels. - Roll the Dough
Starting from one long side, carefully roll the dough into a tight log shape. - Slice Pinwheels
Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice the log into 1-inch thick pinwheels. - Prepare for Baking
Place pinwheels cut-side up on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them. - Apply Egg Wash
Brush tops with beaten egg to achieve a golden and glossy finish during baking. - Bake Pinwheels
Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown and puffed. - Cool Slightly
Remove from oven. Let cool 5 minutes before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips to Make the Best Cranberry Feta Pinwheels
- Use fresh puff pastry for best flakiness.
- Chill dough slightly if it becomes too soft to roll.
- Mix filling thoroughly for even flavor in every bite.
- Brush with egg wash for golden, shiny pinwheels.
- Slice carefully to avoid squishing the filling.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not thawing dough properly; it may crack or tear.
- Overfilling the pinwheels; the log may be hard to roll.
- Slicing too thick or thin; affects baking time.
- Skipping egg wash; tops may look pale and less appetizing.
- Overbaking; pinwheels may become dry instead of soft and flaky.
Serving Suggestions
Cranberry Feta Pinwheels are perfect for holiday parties, brunch,or snacks. Serve them on a platter with fresh fruit or vegetables. Pair with tea, coffee, or sparkling drinks for a festive touch.
You can also serve them as a light appetizer before dinner. These pinwheels are easy to serve at buffets or potlucks. Garnish with fresh herbs for extra color and flavor. They can be enjoyed warm from the oven or cooled for a convenient make-ahead snack.
Variations You Can Try
- Add chopped spinach or arugula for extra greens.
- Replace cranberries with dried cherries or apricots.
- Use goat cheese or cream cheese only instead of feta.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds or poppy seeds on top for texture.
- Add a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze after baking for sweetness.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness.
- Avoid microwaving; may become soggy.
- Pinwheels can be frozen before baking for up to 1 month.
- Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Pinwheel |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Fat | 7 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
Health Benefits
Cranberry Feta Pinwheels provide protein and calcium from feta and cream cheese. Cranberries are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C. Using puff pastry in moderation keeps the snack light.
This appetizer contains some fiber and natural sweetness from cranberries. It is a better alternative to heavily fried snacks while still being festive and tasty. A small portion makes a satisfying and nutritious treat for adults and kids alike.
Cranberry Feta Pinwheels Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry or crescent dough thawed
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tbsp cream cheese softened
- 1 tsp honey
- 1/2 tsp black pepper optional
- 1/2 tsp fresh thyme or rosemary optional
- 1 egg beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
Preheat Oven
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Prepare Dough
- Unfold puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Roll slightly to make an even rectangle.
Mix Filling
- In a bowl, combine feta cheese, cream cheese, cranberries, honey, pepper and herbs. Mix until uniform.
Spread Filling
- Spread the mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a small border on edges to seal pinwheels.
Roll the Dough
- Starting from one long side, carefully roll the dough into a tight log shape.
Slice Pinwheels
- Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice the log into 1-inch thick pinwheels.
Prepare for Baking
- Place pinwheels cut-side up on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them.
Apply Egg Wash
- Brush tops with beaten egg to achieve a golden and glossy finish during baking.
Bake Pinwheels
- Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
Cool Slightly
- Remove from oven. Let cool 5 minutes before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Use fresh puff pastry for best flakiness.
- Chill dough slightly if it becomes too soft to roll.
- Mix filling thoroughly for even flavor in every bite.
- Brush with egg wash for golden, shiny pinwheels.
- Slice carefully to avoid squishing the filling.
FAQs about Cranberry Feta Pinwheels
Q1: Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, prepare pinwheels and store in the fridge before baking. Bake when ready for fresh, warm pastries.
Q2: Can I use frozen puff pastry?
Yes, thaw completely before rolling to avoid cracks and ensure even puffing in the oven.
Q3: Can I make these vegan?
Yes, use plant-based cream cheese, feta alternatives and vegan puff pastry for a fully vegan snack.
Q4: How can I make them spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne to the filling for a mild kick without overpowering flavors.
Q5: Can I freeze after baking?
Yes, let pinwheels cool completely, then freeze in airtight containers for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven.
Final Thoughts
Cranberry Feta Pinwheels Recipe is simple, colorful and delicious. The sweet cranberries, salty feta and flaky dough make a perfect combination. You now know how to make Cranberry Feta Pinwheels, the ingredients needed and useful tips for the best results.
They are ideal for brunch, holiday parties, or snacks anytime. Serve warm, enjoy with drinks or coffee, and impress your guests with this easy and festive appetizer. Try this recipe today and enjoy a tasty, homemade treat everyone will love!
Hi, I’m Emily Grace! I love cooking simple, tasty food that brings people together. On Bite Dive, I share easy recipes, fun food tips, and ideas to make every meal special. My kitchen is my happy place, and I’m so excited to share it with you!