Easy Christmas Cranberry Feta Pinwheels to Impress Guests

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Christmas Cranberry Feta Pinwheels are a delightful addition to any holiday gathering. Combining the tangy flavor of feta and the sweetness of dried cranberries, these pinwheels present a festive yet elegant appetizer that will surely impress your guests. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or attending a potluck, these pinwheels offer a beautiful presentation filled with delicious flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Cranberry Feta Pinwheels

There are many reasons to adore these Christmas cranberry feta rolls. First, they are exceptionally easy to prepare, making them a perfect choice for busy holidays. Second, they offer a beautiful contrast of flavors, blending the creamy, tangy feta with the sweet, chewy cranberries. Third, they can be served warm or cold, fitting any occasion. Additionally, this recipe is versatile—you can easily adapt it to create holiday cranberry feta wraps or even spinach cranberry feta pinwheels. Lastly, this easy cranberry feta appetizer recipe caters to both vegetarians and those looking for gluten-free options, ensuring everyone at your gathering can enjoy them.

Ingredients for Christmas Cranberry Feta Pinwheels

Gather these items:

2 sheets Frozen puff pastry (approx. 17.3 ounces)
8 ounces Cream cheese (softened)
4 ounces Feta cheese (crumbled)
0.5 cup Dried cranberries (finely chopped)
2 tablespoons Fresh rosemary (finely minced)
1 tablespoon Fresh thyme leaves (finely minced)
1 tablespoon Light brown sugar
0.5 teaspoon Black pepper (freshly ground)
0.25 teaspoon Garlic powder (optional)
1 pinch Salt (to taste)
1 large Egg
1 tablespoon Water or milk

How to Make Christmas Cranberry Feta Pinwheels Step-by-Step

Step 1: Soften the cream cheese. Remove it from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes until soft and spreadable.
Step 2: Beat the cream cheese. In a mixing bowl, whip the softened cream cheese until it’s light and fluffy for approximately 2-3 minutes using a hand mixer or spatula.
Step 3: Fold in the feta cheese. Gently add the crumbled feta cheese to the creamy mixture, ensuring to keep that delightful texture.
Step 4: Mince the fresh herbs. Finely chop the rosemary and thyme, then stir into the mixture, unlocking their vibrant flavors.
Step 5: Chop the cranberries. Finely chop the dried cranberries and mix them into the creamy filling until evenly distributed.
Step 6: Combine the seasonings. Add the brown sugar, black pepper, garlic powder (if using), and a pinch of salt; gently fold until everything is harmoniously blended.
Step 7: Prepare the pastry. Lay one sheet of thawed puff pastry on a clean surface, ready for rolling.
Step 8: (Optional) Roll out the pastry. For uniform baking, roll the puff pastry to about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick using a rolling pin.
Step 9: Spread the filling. Evenly distribute half of the creamy cranberry feta filling over the puff pastry, leaving a ½-inch border on one long edge for sealing.
Step 10: Roll the pastry. Starting from the long edge opposite the border, tightly roll the pastry, pinching the seam to secure the filling inside.
Step 11: Chill the log. Wrap the rolled pastry in plastic wrap, then chill in the freezer for 15-20 minutes or in the refrigerator for 30-45 minutes to firm up.
Step 12: Preheat the oven. Set your oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 13: Slice the log. Using a sharp knife, cut the chilled log into ½-inch thick rounds, revealing the beautiful filling inside.
Step 14: Place the pinwheels. Arrange the pinwheels on the prepared baking sheets, ensuring there’s space between each for proper baking.
Step 15: Whisk the egg wash. In a small bowl, combine the egg with water or milk, then brush this mixture over the tops of the pinwheels for that lovely golden finish.
Step 16: Bake the pinwheels. Place them in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and flaky.
Step 17: Cool on the baking sheet. Allow the pinwheels to cool for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack for further cooling.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Christmas Cranberry Feta Pinwheels

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh herbs for the best flavor.
Make sure your cream cheese is softened for easy mixing.
Chilling the roll helps in slicing and keeps the filling intact.
Experiment with cranberry feta cream cheese pinwheels by adding other ingredients like spinach for variation.

Best Ways to Serve Christmas Cranberry Feta Pinwheels

These pinwheels are best served warm or at room temperature. Pair them with a tangy dipping sauce or a fresh salad to enhance the flavors. For a festive touch, consider serving them on a platter decorated with pomegranate seeds or alongside delicious cranberry feta party snacks.

How to Store and Reheat Christmas Cranberry Feta Pinwheels

Store any leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warm. This makes them a great option for meal prep and easy entertaining!

Frequently Asked Questions About Christmas Cranberry Feta Pinwheels

What’s the secret to perfect Christmas Cranberry Feta Pinwheels?

The secret lies in using high-quality ingredients and ensuring the cream cheese is well-softened before mixing. This helps in achieving the right creamy texture and flavor. Plus, don’t skip the chilling step!

Can I make Christmas Cranberry Feta Pinwheels ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the pinwheels a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Just slice and bake them just before serving for a fresh and flaky treat.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Christmas Cranberry Feta Pinwheels?

To avoid common pitfalls, ensure that your puff pastry is properly thawed and rolled evenly. Also, be mindful of the filling amount so that it doesn’t overflow while baking.

Variations of Christmas Cranberry Feta Pinwheels You Can Try

Feel free to get creative! You can make vegan cranberry feta pinwheel recipe by using plant-based cream cheese and feta. Another variation is to add chopped nuts for extra crunch or incorporate roasted vegetables for a heartier option.

For more delicious recipes, check out our Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies or try making Creamy Sausage Potato Chowder for a comforting meal. If you’re looking for more appetizer ideas, don’t miss our Irresistible Thai Red Curry Kabobs.