It wouldn’t be the holidays without a vibrant splash of cranberry! My Aunt Carol always brought a homemade cranberry relish to Thanksgiving, and while I loved it, the tartness was sometimes a little overwhelming for my young taste buds. These cranberry feta pinwheels, however, are the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy, reminding me of her but with a more approachable flavor.
The first time I made them, I was hosting a small get-together with friends. I wanted something festive, easy to eat, and, most importantly, delicious. These cranberry feta pinwheels were a huge hit! They disappeared in minutes, and everyone raved about the unique combination of flavors and textures. I learned that even Dolly Parton has a knack for bringing people together with a comforting meal, as I discovered from this Dolly Parton casserole recipe.
Why you’ll love this Cranberry Feta Pinwheels
* These cranberry feta pinwheels are incredibly easy to make, using store-bought puff pastry to save time.
* The combination of sweet cranberry sauce, salty feta cheese, and crunchy pecans creates a burst of flavor in every bite.
* They are perfect for any occasion, from holiday parties to casual get-togethers.
* The beautiful golden-brown color and festive ingredients make them visually appealing and perfect for presentation.
* These cranberry feta pinwheels are a great make-ahead appetizer, allowing you to prepare them in advance and bake them just before serving.
* They are a crowd-pleaser, appealing to a wide range of palates with their balanced flavors and textures.
Ingredients
* 1 package (14.1 ounces) frozen puff pastry, thawed
* 1 cup cranberry sauce (whole berry or jellied)
* 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
* 1/2 cup pecans, toasted and chopped
* 1 large egg, beaten
* 1 tablespoon water
Directions
Step 1
Cranberry feta pinwheels makes every moment feel velvety. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the pinwheels from sticking and make cleanup a breeze!
Step 2
In a medium bowl, combine the cranberry sauce, feta cheese, and toasted pecans. Mix well. Ensure the pecans are finely chopped for even distribution of flavor.
Step 3
On a lightly floured surface, unfold one sheet of puff pastry. Spread half of the cranberry feta mixture evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a small border at the edges. The flour prevents the pastry from sticking to the surface as you work with it.
Step 4
Starting from one end, tightly roll up the puff pastry into a log. Repeat with the second sheet of puff pastry and remaining cranberry feta mixture. Rolling tightly will help ensure neat pinwheels.
Step 5
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to create an egg wash. This will give the pinwheels a beautiful golden-brown color.
Step 6
Brush the logs with the egg wash. Be sure to cover the entire surface for an even color.
Step 7
Using a sharp knife, slice each log into 1/2-inch thick pinwheels. Place the pinwheels onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart. A sharp knife will help create clean cuts and prevent the pinwheels from being misshapen.
Step 8
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pinwheels are golden brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning; baking times may vary depending on your oven.
Step 9
Let the pinwheels cool slightly on the baking sheet before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature. Cooling slightly allows the filling to set a bit, making them easier to handle.
Variations, pairings, and serving ideas
Variations
Want to switch things up a bit? Consider adding a sprinkle of orange zest to the cranberry feta mixture for a brighter, citrusy flavor. A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg can also add a warm, comforting touch, especially during the holiday season.
You could also experiment with different types of cheese. Goat cheese offers a tangier alternative to feta, while cream cheese adds a richer, creamier texture. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different combinations to find your perfect blend.
Instead of pecans, try using chopped walnuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free option. Each type of nut will contribute a slightly different flavor and texture, adding another layer of complexity to the cranberry feta pinwheels.
Pairings
These cranberry feta pinwheels pair beautifully with a variety of drinks. A crisp, dry sparkling cider is a refreshing complement to the sweet and savory flavors. A light-bodied white grape juice, such as Pinot Grigio, also works well.
For a non-alcoholic option, try serving them with sparkling water infused with cranberries and rosemary. The herbal notes of rosemary will enhance the overall flavor profile of the pinwheels. They would be a welcome addition to a festive holiday table alongside slow cooker beef manhattan.
Consider serving the cranberry feta pinwheels alongside other appetizers such as a cheese and cracker platter or a vegetable crudité. This will provide a variety of options for your guests and ensure there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Serving ideas
Arrange the cranberry feta pinwheels on a festive platter or serving tray. Garnish with fresh cranberries and a sprig of rosemary for an elegant touch. The vibrant colors will make them even more appealing.
Serve the pinwheels warm or at room temperature. If serving warm, consider reheating them briefly in the oven to restore their crispy texture. You can also arrange them on a tiered serving stand for a visually stunning presentation.
For a more casual presentation, place the cranberry feta pinwheels in a basket lined with a festive napkin. This is perfect for potlucks or informal gatherings. Remember, presentation matters, so take a little extra time to make them look as good as they taste!
Storage and make-ahead tips
Storage
Leftover cranberry feta pinwheels can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before storing to prevent them from becoming soggy.
To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warmed through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but they may not be as crispy.
These pinwheels can also be frozen for longer storage. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Make-ahead
Cranberry feta pinwheels can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This is a great option if you’re short on time on the day of your event.
Prepare the pinwheel logs as directed, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply slice the logs into pinwheels and bake as directed.
You can also prepare the cranberry feta mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. This will save you even more time on the day you plan to bake the pinwheels. Just be sure to bring the filling to room temperature before spreading it on the puff pastry.
Common mistakes when making Cranberry Feta Pinwheels
* Not thawing the puff pastry completely: This can make it difficult to roll and shape the pinwheels. Be sure to thaw the puff pastry according to the package directions before using.
* Overfilling the puff pastry: Too much filling can cause the pinwheels to be messy and difficult to roll. Use a moderate amount of filling and spread it evenly over the puff pastry.
* Not rolling the puff pastry tightly enough: A loose roll can result in misshapen pinwheels. Roll the puff pastry tightly to create a neat, compact log.
* Cutting the pinwheels too thick or too thin: Aim for 1/2-inch thick pinwheels for the best texture and appearance. Use a sharp knife to ensure clean cuts.
* Overbaking the pinwheels: Overbaking can result in dry, hard pinwheels. Keep a close eye on them while they’re baking and remove them from the oven when they are golden brown.
Final notes
These cranberry feta pinwheels are more than just an appetizer; they’re a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will impress your guests. The ease of preparation makes them perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to festive holiday celebrations.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations to create your own unique twist on this classic recipe. Whether you add a touch of citrus or switch up the nuts and cheeses, the possibilities are endless.
So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and get ready to bake up a batch of these irresistible cranberry feta pinwheels. Your friends and family will thank you!
Loved this Cranberry Feta Pinwheels? Try these next
* Dolly Parton Casserole Recipe
* Southern Fried Apples Recipe
* Grinch Punch Recipe
* Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan
* Chewy Coconut Macaroons
Cranberry Feta Pinwheels
These Cranberry Feta Pinwheels are the perfect appetizer for any gathering! Flaky puff pastry is filled with a tangy and sweet mixture of cranberry sauce, creamy feta cheese, and toasted pecans, then baked until golden brown. Easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 24 pinwheels 1x
Ingredients
- 1 package (14.1 ounces) frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (whole berry or jellied)
- 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup pecans, toasted and chopped
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon water
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, combine the cranberry sauce, feta cheese, and toasted pecans. Mix well.
- On a lightly floured surface, unfold one sheet of puff pastry. Spread half of the cranberry feta mixture evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a small border at the edges.
- Starting from one end, tightly roll up the puff pastry into a log. Repeat with the second sheet of puff pastry and remaining cranberry feta mixture.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to create an egg wash.
- Brush the logs with the egg wash.
- Using a sharp knife, slice each log into 1/2-inch thick pinwheels. Place the pinwheels onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pinwheels are golden brown.
- Let the pinwheels cool slightly on the baking sheet before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
For best results, use a good quality cranberry sauce. You can also substitute walnuts or almonds for the pecans. These pinwheels can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Leftover pinwheels can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pinwheel
- Calories: 95
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg