If you are searching for a delightful appetizer that perfectly balances sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, then this Cranberry Feta Pinwheels with Cream Cheese Recipe is your new go-to. These bite-sized pinwheels are bursting with creamy cheese, the tang of cranberries, and just the right hint of feta saltiness, wrapped in a flaky tender dough. They make an irresistible party snack, a quick snack for unexpected guests, or even a charming addition to any brunch spread. Once you try this recipe, these pinwheels will become a staple in your recipe collection for good reason.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, fresh ingredients come together to make this Cranberry Feta Pinwheels with Cream Cheese Recipe truly shine. Each element brings a unique texture and flavor profile, contributing to a harmonious bite that’s creamy, tangy, and beautifully colorful.
- Puff Pastry Sheets: These provide the flaky, buttery base that holds all the filling together perfectly.
- Cream Cheese: The creamy and mild component that enriches the filling with a luscious texture.
- Feta Cheese: Crumbled to add a sharp, tangy contrast to the sweetness of the cranberries.
- Dried Cranberries: Deliver bursts of sweet, chewy fruitiness that brighten every bite.
- Honey: A touch of natural sweetness to balance the salty feta and tart cranberries.
- Fresh Thyme: Adds subtle earthy, herbal notes that elevate the savory dimension.
- Egg Wash: Beaten egg to brush on top, helping the pinwheels brown beautifully and develop a glossy finish.
How to Make Cranberry Feta Pinwheels with Cream Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Start by combining softened cream cheese, crumbled feta, dried cranberries, honey, and fresh thyme in a bowl. Mixing these ingredients gently ensures the cheeses remain creamy with bursts of tang and sweetness in every spoonful. Don’t rush here—allowing the flavors to mingle is what sets this recipe apart.
Step 2: Roll Out the Puff Pastry
On a lightly floured surface, unroll your puff pastry sheets to a rectangle, ready to hold that luscious filling. Handling the dough gently will keep it tender and flaky once baked.
Step 3: Spread the Filling Evenly
Using a spatula or the back of a spoon, spread the cranberry, feta, and cream cheese filling evenly over the surface of the rolled-out dough. Make sure to reach every edge so every bite offers an exciting flavor combination.
Step 4: Roll and Slice into Pinwheels
Carefully roll the dough into a tight log, ensuring the filling stays inside and doesn’t spill out. Then slice the log into approximately 1-inch thick pinwheels that look as delightful as they taste.
Step 5: Brush with Egg Wash and Bake
Place the pinwheels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and brush each with egg wash. This final touch promises a golden, shiny crust that’s simply irresistible after baking at the perfect temperature until puffed and lightly browned.
How to Serve Cranberry Feta Pinwheels with Cream Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped herbs like parsley or thyme over the pinwheels before serving to add a fresh pop of color along with an extra layer of herbal aroma that complements the filling beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pair these pinwheels with a crisp green salad or a bowl of roasted nuts for texture contrast and a sophisticated appetizer spread. They also work wonderfully alongside chilled white wine or sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon for a refreshing pairing.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the pinwheels on a vibrant platter, arranging them in a spiral or stacked neatly to showcase their swirled centers. You can also serve them with small bowls of honey dip or a tangy yogurt sauce on the side for dipping to enhance the eating experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This will keep the pastry from drying out and preserve those beautiful savory-sweet flavors.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy Cranberry Feta Pinwheels with Cream Cheese Recipe at a later date, freeze the unbaked pinwheel slices on a tray first, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. When ready to bake, thaw slightly before popping into the oven—freshness sealed.
Reheating
Reheat the pinwheels gently in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can make the pastry soggy; reheating this way keeps them crisp and scrumptious.
FAQs
Can I use frozen puff pastry for this Cranberry Feta Pinwheels with Cream Cheese Recipe?
Absolutely! Just thaw the puff pastry according to package instructions before using it. Frozen puff pastry works wonderfully and makes this recipe super convenient to prepare.
Can I substitute the dried cranberries with another fruit?
Yes, dried cherries or raisins can provide a similar sweet tartness, but cranberries offer that classic, vibrant flavor that pairs exceptionally well with feta and cream cheese.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
With some swaps like vegan cream cheese, plant-based feta alternatives, and puff pastry made without butter, you can enjoy a vegan version. Just be sure to select ingredients labeled vegan friendly.
How far in advance can I assemble the pinwheels before baking?
You can prepare the pinwheels a few hours ahead and refrigerate them unbaked. Just bring them to room temperature before baking for the best puff and texture.
Can these pinwheels be made smaller or larger?
Yes! Adjust the thickness of your slices depending on your preference—smaller pinwheels for bite-sized snacks, or thicker slices to make them more substantial for a party platter.
Final Thoughts
You’re going to fall in love with how easy and fun this Cranberry Feta Pinwheels with Cream Cheese Recipe is to make and serve. The burst of cranberry sweetness against the creamy tang of feta and cream cheese wrapped in flaky pastry is pure magic. Whether for a festive occasion or a simple treat, these pinwheels always bring smiles and happy taste buds around any table. Go ahead and try them—you won’t be disappointed!
Print
Cranberry Feta Pinwheels with Cream Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Seafood
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delicious and buttery baked sea scallops infused with garlic and lemon, topped with fresh parsley and a hint of paprika. This quick and easy seafood dish delivers tender, flavorful scallops perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Scallops
- 1 lb fresh large sea scallops
Garlic Butter Mixture
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for greasing the baking dish or mixing with butter)
Seasoning and Garnish
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- A pinch of paprika
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for topping
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or some of the garlic butter mixture to prevent scallops from sticking.
- Prepare the Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with minced garlic and fresh lemon juice. For extra richness, you can substitute half of the butter with olive oil.
- Season the Scallops: Pat the scallops dry with paper towels to ensure a nice sear and bake. Place them in the greased baking dish and season with salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and a pinch of paprika for color and flavor.
- Add the Garlic Butter: Spoon the garlic butter mixture evenly over each scallop, ensuring they are well coated to maximize flavor and moisture.
- Bake the Scallops: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes, depending on the size of your scallops. Keep a close eye near the end to avoid overcooking, as overbaked scallops become tough. They should be opaque and slightly firm to the touch when done.
- Add Optional Toppings: For extra flavor, sprinkle a small amount of grated Parmesan cheese over the scallops before baking or immediately after for a cheesy crust.
- Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the scallops from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a fresh, vibrant finish. Serve immediately for best taste and texture.
Notes
- Do not overcook scallops to prevent toughness; watch them closely in the last few minutes.
- Using half butter and half olive oil in the garlic butter mixture adds a richer flavor.
- Optional grated Parmesan cheese adds a delicious savory crust if sprinkled before baking.
- Patting scallops dry before cooking ensures a better texture and nicer browning.
- Serve scallops immediately after baking for optimal tenderness and flavor.
