Christmas Cranberry Feta Pinwheels That Will Impress Guests

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Christmas Cranberry Feta Pinwheels are a delightful addition to any holiday gathering, combining creamy feta and sweet cranberries into a savory treat. These pinwheels not only present beautifully but also deliver a burst of festive flavors that will impress your guests and family. Perfect for parties and intimate gatherings alike, let’s dive into how to create this stunning appetizer that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Cranberry Feta Pinwheels

There are countless reasons to adore these Christmas Cranberry Feta Pinwheels. For starters, they are incredibly easy to make, making them a go-to choice for busy holiday hosts. These pinwheels are not only visually appealing but also offer a delightful balance of flavors—sweet, savory, and creamy. They can be served warm or at room temperature, making them versatile for any gathering. Plus, they can be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy your party stress-free. With vegetarian-friendly ingredients, these pinwheels cater to a wide range of diets and preferences. For a unique holiday appetizer, you can’t go wrong with these festive delights!

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

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. Step 3: Fold in the feta cheese. Gently add the crumbled feta cheese to the creamy mixture, ensuring to keep that delightful texture.
4. Step 4: Mince the fresh herbs. Finely chop the rosemary and thyme, then stir into the mixture, unlocking their vibrant flavors.
5. Step 5: Chop the cranberries. Finely chop the dried cranberries and mix them into the creamy filling until evenly distributed.
6. 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.
7. Step 7: Prepare the pastry. Lay one sheet of thawed puff pastry on a clean surface, ready for rolling.
8. 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.
9. 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.
10. 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.
11. 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.
12. 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.
13. Step 13: Slice the log. Using a sharp knife, cut the chilled log into ½-inch thick rounds, revealing the beautiful filling inside.
14. Step 14: Place the pinwheels. Arrange the pinwheels on the prepared baking sheets, ensuring there’s space between each for proper baking.
15. 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.
16. 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.
17. 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 Best Christmas Cranberry Feta Pinwheels

Keep these in mind:

• Ensure your cream cheese is soft enough for easy mixing.
• Don’t overfill the pastry to prevent leaks.
• Chilling the logs is crucial for neat slicing.

Best Ways to Serve Christmas Cranberry Feta Pinwheels

These pinwheels make for an impressive spread. Serve them alongside a festive cheese board or as part of a holiday appetizer platter featuring Cranberry feta finger food ideas. They pair wonderfully with a light salad or a glass of sparkling wine!

How to Store and Reheat Christmas Cranberry Feta Pinwheels

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, ensuring they remain flaky and delicious. This makes them a perfect option for meal prep during the busy holiday season!

Frequently Asked Questions About Christmas Cranberry Feta Pinwheels

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

The secret lies in using quality ingredients and ensuring your puff pastry is cold and well-chilled before baking. This will achieve that flaky texture we all love!

Can I make Christmas Cranberry Feta Pinwheels ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the pinwheels a day in advance and keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This makes party prep a breeze!

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

Avoid overfilling your pinwheels and ensure they’re well-chilled before slicing. This will help keep the filling intact while baking.

Variations of Christmas Cranberry Feta Pinwheels You Can Try

Feel free to get creative! You can substitute the feta with goat cheese for a tangy twist or add spinach for a nutritious boost. For a sweeter touch, try incorporating chopped nuts or using a different dried fruit. These variations keep your appetizers exciting and unique!

For more delicious recipes, check out Creamy Cranberry Chicken Wraps or Cranberry Pistachio Snowball Cookies for festive treats that will delight your guests!

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