Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs are the perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors wrapped in a golden, flaky pastry. These beautiful spirals are not just eye-catching but also deliver a delightful bite every time, making them an instant favorite at holiday gatherings or casual brunches.
The combination of tart cranberries, smooth cream cheese, salty feta, and fresh herbs creates an appetizer that feels both indulgent and fresh. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want a fun weekend snack, these pinwheels are a breeze to prepare and guaranteed to impress.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and Their Importance)
To make these pinwheels, you’ll need a few key tools:
- Baking Sheet: Provides a flat, even surface to bake the pinwheels, ensuring they crisp up perfectly.
- Sharp Knife or Pizza Cutter: Essential for slicing the rolled dough into neat, uniform pieces without squishing the filling.
- Mixing Bowl: To combine the cream cheese, feta, and herbs smoothly and evenly.
- Rolling Pin: Helps to gently flatten the puff pastry to the right thickness without tearing it.
- Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and makes for easy cleanup afterward.
Ingredients for the Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs
- Puff Pastry Sheets: The flaky, buttery base that wraps all the delicious fillings.
- Cream Cheese: Adds creaminess and mild tang, balancing the sweet and savory flavors.
- Feta Cheese: Brings a salty, crumbly texture that contrasts beautifully with the cranberries.
- Dried Cranberries: Provide sweet-tart bursts that elevate the overall taste.
- Fresh Herbs (like rosemary or parsley): Add a pop of green and fresh, earthy notes.
- Honey (optional): For a touch of sweetness that rounds out the flavors.


How To Make the Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, crumbled feta, chopped fresh herbs, and a drizzle of honey if using. Stir until well blended.
Step 2: Roll Out the Puff Pastry
On a lightly floured surface, gently roll out the puff pastry sheet to smooth the seams and slightly thin the dough. Be careful not to over-roll.
Step 3: Spread and Layer
Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the pastry, leaving a small border. Sprinkle the dried cranberries evenly across the top.
Step 4: Roll and Slice
Starting from one edge, tightly roll up the pastry into a log. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice into ½-inch thick rounds.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Arrange the slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-18 minutes, or until golden and puffed.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Let the pinwheels cool slightly before serving to allow the flavors to set. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Serving and Storing Your Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs
Serve these pinwheels slightly warm or at room temperature on a pretty platter garnished with extra herbs. They’re perfect as appetizers, brunch bites, or even a quick savory snack. Leftovers (if you have any!) can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a low oven to bring back their crispness before serving again.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?
Prepare the rolls and slice them, then freeze on a tray. Once frozen, transfer to a bag. Bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Yes, but chop them finely and consider adding a bit more honey since fresh cranberries are much tarter.
What herbs work best?
Rosemary, thyme, or parsley all complement the flavors beautifully. Use what you have on hand or mix them for extra depth.
Can I make them gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free puff pastry—many stores carry them in the freezer section.
Do they work as a sweet dessert too?
They’re more savory, but you can skip the feta and add more honey for a sweeter version.
Want More Appetizer Ideas?
If you love these Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:
• Longhorn Parmesan Chicken for a cheesy, crispy dinner option.
• Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells if you love creamy pasta dishes.
• Taco Ranch Bites for a fun, zesty appetizer.
• Deep Dish Pizza Cupcakes for a kid-friendly, savory treat.
• Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole for a comforting, creamy main dish.【6†source】
Save This Recipe for Later
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest appetizer board so you can come back to it any time: Life With Olivia Pinterest.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use rosemary, or try thyme? Maybe you added a spicy kick? I love hearing how you customize these recipes. Questions are welcome too—let’s make cooking more joyful together!


Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: About 12 pinwheels
Description
Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Feta & Herbs are flaky puff pastry spirals filled with a creamy cheese mixture, tangy cranberries, and fresh herbs. Perfect for holidays, brunch, or as an elegant appetizer, they’re easy to make and full of festive flavor.
Ingredients
1 sheet puff pastry
4 oz cream cheese softened
1/3 cup feta cheese crumbled
1/3 cup dried cranberries chopped
1 tablespoon fresh herbs rosemary or parsley chopped
1 tablespoon honey optional
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix cream cheese, feta, herbs, and honey until smooth.
3. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface.
4. Spread the cheese mixture over the pastry, leaving a small border.
5. Sprinkle cranberries evenly on top.
6. Roll up the pastry tightly into a log and slice into ½-inch rounds.
7. Place on the baking sheet and bake for 15–18 minutes until golden.
8. Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a low oven to refresh crispness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pinwheel
- Calories: 110 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 170 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 4.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 9 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
Keywords: cranberry, cream cheese, pinwheels, appetizer, feta, herbs
