Cranberry and Feta Pinwheels
The holidays are just around the corner, and what better way to celebrate than with a delightful appetizer that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious? Introducing the Cranberry and Feta Pinwheels – a flavor-packed treat that’s sure to delight your guests and leave them craving more.
These bite-sized pinwheels are the perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and savory, making them an irresistible addition to any holiday gathering. With their vibrant colors and elegant presentation, they’ll add a touch of festive flair to your table and impress your loved ones with your culinary prowess.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❓
The Cranberry and Feta Pinwheels are a true crowd-pleaser, offering a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. The buttery, flaky puff pastry provides a delicate base, while the tangy feta and the sweet-tart cranberries create a flavor explosion in every bite. Plus, these pinwheels are incredibly easy to prepare, making them the perfect last-minute appetizer for your holiday party or family gathering.
But the best part? These pinwheels can be made ahead of time, so you can enjoy the festivities without being chained to the kitchen. Simply bake them off and reheat before serving, or even freeze them for later use. With their make-ahead versatility and irresistible taste, the Cranberry and Feta Pinwheels are a recipe you’ll want to have in your repertoire all year round.
🛒 What You Need to Prepare Cranberry and Feta Pinwheels ❓
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries, chopped
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
The beauty of this Cranberry and Feta Pinwheels recipe is that most ingredients are pantry or freezer staples. The combination of tangy feta, sweet cranberries, and aromatic herbs creates a flavor profile that has made these pinwheels a perennially popular appetizer.
📝 How to Make Cranberry and Feta Pinwheels Step-by-Step ❓
• Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine the crumbled feta, chopped cranberries, honey, balsamic vinegar, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly distributed.
• Step 3: Unfold the thawed puff pastry sheet and roll it out into a 12×10-inch rectangle. Spread the cranberry-feta mixture evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a 1-inch border on all sides.
• Step 4: Starting from the long side, tightly roll up the puff pastry like a jelly roll. Pinch the seam to seal it.
• Step 5: Slice the rolled puff pastry into 1-inch thick pinwheels and place them cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
• Step 6: Bake the pinwheels for 18-20 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and flaky.
• Step 7: Remove the pinwheels from the oven and let them cool for 5 minutes before serving.
⏱️ Timing Overview
• Cooking time: 18-20 minutes
• Total time: 33-35 minutes
Compared to traditional appetizers that can take up to an hour to prepare, this Cranberry and Feta Pinwheels recipe saves you valuable time while delivering similar flavors.
👩🏻⚕️ Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 12 servings):
• Protein: 3.6g
• Carbohydrates: 14.3g
• Fat: 11.7g
• Fiber: 0.6g
• Sodium: 273mg
These Cranberry and Feta Pinwheels provide approximately 7% of your daily calcium requirements and 5% of your daily vitamin C needs, making them not just delicious but nutritionally valuable as well.
🔄 Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
• Lower-carb version: Substitute the puff pastry with a low-carb or keto-friendly alternative, such as almond flour or coconut flour-based dough.
• Dairy-free adaptation: Replace the feta cheese with a dairy-free, plant-based alternative, such as cashew or almond-based “feta.”
• Added protein: Sprinkle in cooked and crumbled turkey bacon or chopped walnuts to boost the protein content.
• Boost vegetables: Mix in some finely chopped spinach or bell peppers to increase the vegetable content.
These modifications can reduce calories by up to 20% or adapt the recipe for specific dietary needs without compromising the fundamental flavor profile of the Cranberry and Feta Pinwheels.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
• Pair the pinwheels with a fresh green salad or a seasonal fruit platter for a complete appetizer spread.
• Complement the pinwheels with a crisp white wine or a sparkling holiday cocktail for a festive touch.
• For a holiday party, serve the pinwheels alongside other bite-sized hors d’oeuvres like mini quiches or stuffed mushrooms.
• Create a beautiful holiday platter by arranging the Cranberry and Feta Pinwheels alongside other red and green-hued appetizers, such as roasted red pepper hummus or pesto-stuffed cherry tomatoes.
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Cutting the pinwheels too thick: Slicing the rolled puff pastry into 1-inch thick pieces ensures a flaky, well-cooked pastry. Cutting them too thick can result in an undercooked or doughy center.
• Not letting the puff pastry thaw completely: Make sure to allow the puff pastry to thaw completely before unrolling and assembling the pinwheels. This will ensure a smooth, even roll-up and prevent tearing.
• Overbaking the pinwheels: Keep an eye on the pinwheels during baking, as over-baking can result in a dry, tough pastry shell.
• Skipping the parchment paper: Lining the baking sheet with parchment paper helps prevent the pinwheels from sticking and makes for easy cleanup.
🧊 Storing Tips for the Recipe
These Cranberry and Feta Pinwheels retain their quality remarkably well:
• Freezing unbaked: Prepare the pinwheels up to the point of baking, then freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer the pinwheels to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag and store for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Freezing baked: Allow the baked pinwheels to cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap or foil. Place them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag and store for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply place the frozen pinwheels on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
❓ FAQs
Can I make the Cranberry and Feta Pinwheels ahead of time?
Absolutely! These pinwheels are perfect for making ahead of time. You can prepare the filling and assemble the pinwheels up to 1 day in advance, then bake them just before serving. Alternatively, you can bake the pinwheels and then reheat them as needed, either in the oven or in the microwave (for a softer texture).
Can I substitute the feta cheese with another type of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with different cheese options. Goat cheese, cream cheese, or even shredded cheddar or Parmesan would work well in this recipe. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile may change slightly depending on the cheese you choose.
Are these pinwheels suitable for a gluten-free or low-carb diet?
To make a gluten-free version, you can substitute the puff pastry with a gluten-free dough or crust, such as a almond flour-based or coconut flour-based alternative. For a low-carb adaptation, use a keto-friendly dough in place of the puff pastry. These modifications will allow you to enjoy the Cranberry and Feta Pinwheels while accommodating your dietary needs.
What can I do if the pinwheels start to unravel during baking?
If the pinwheels start to come undone while baking, you can try securing them with toothpicks or small skewers before placing them in the oven. This will help keep the rolls tightly together during the baking process. Additionally, make sure not to overfill the puff pastry, as this can also cause the pinwheels to unravel.
Can I add any other ingredients to the Cranberry and Feta Pinwheels?
Absolutely! The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. You can try adding chopped walnuts or pecans for a nutty crunch, or even diced jalapeños or chili flakes for a spicy kick. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary or sage, to complement the cranberry and feta flavors.
Conclusion
These Cranberry and Feta Pinwheels represent the perfect balance of convenience, flavor, and presentation. Whether you’re serving them as a festive appetizer at your holiday party or as a quick and delicious snack for the family, they’re sure to impress with their vibrant colors and irresistible taste. The versatility of this recipe allows for countless variations to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, these Cranberry and Feta Pinwheels demonstrate that sophisticated flavors don’t require complicated techniques – just quality ingredients and a little bit of care in the assembly. So why not add this recipe to your holiday repertoire and delight your guests with a delectable and visually stunning appetizer that’s sure to become a new tradition.
Print
Cranberry and Feta Pinwheels
- Total Time: 33-35 minutes
Ingredients
• 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries, chopped
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
• Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine the crumbled feta, chopped cranberries, honey, balsamic vinegar, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly distributed.
• Step 3: Unfold the thawed puff pastry sheet and roll it out into a 12×10-inch rectangle. Spread the cranberry-feta mixture evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a 1-inch border on all sides.
• Step 4: Starting from the long side, tightly roll up the puff pastry like a jelly roll. Pinch the seam to seal it.
• Step 5: Slice the rolled puff pastry into 1-inch thick pinwheels and place them cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
• Step 6: Bake the pinwheels for 18-20 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and flaky.
• Step 7: Remove the pinwheels from the oven and let them cool for 5 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18-20 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Cuisine: Americans
Keywords: Cranberry and Feta Pinwheels
