Cheese Cranberry Herb Recipe

Introduction

Cheese Pinwheels are a delightful appetizer that combines flaky puff pastry with creamy cheeses and a hint of fruity sweetness. Perfect for parties or a simple snack, these bite-sized treats are easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 1 sheet puff pastry
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup cranberry sauce or 1/3 cup chopped dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (parsley or rosemary), chopped
• 1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water (egg wash)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface, pressing out any creases.
3. Step 3: Spread the softened cream cheese evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Step 4: Sprinkle cranberry sauce or chopped dried cranberries and crumbled feta cheese evenly over the cream cheese layer.
5. Step 5: Scatter the chopped fresh herbs over the filling for added flavor.
6. Step 6: Starting from one long edge, roll the pastry tightly into a log and slice into 1-inch wide pieces.
7. Step 7: Place the pinwheels cut side up on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.
8. Step 8: Brush the tops with the egg wash and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until golden and puffed.

Tips & Variations

• For a different flavor, try substituting goat cheese for the feta or adding chopped nuts for extra crunch.
• If fresh herbs aren’t available, use 1 teaspoon dried herbs instead.
• Make sure the cream cheese is softened to spread easily and avoid tearing the pastry.

Storage

Store leftover cheese pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore their crispiness.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen puff pastry for this recipe?

Yes, frozen puff pastry works great. Just be sure to thaw it completely according to package instructions before rolling out.

What can I use instead of cranberry sauce?

You can substitute chopped dried cranberries or even a different fruit preserve like apricot or raspberry for a unique twist.

Cheese Cranberry Herb Recipe

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Delightful Cheese Pinwheels featuring flaky puff pastry filled with creamy cream cheese, tangy cranberry, and feta cheese, enhanced by fresh herbs. These savory and slightly sweet pinwheels are perfect appetizers or snacks, baked to golden perfection.

• Author: lea
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 12 pinwheels 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pastry and Filling

• 1 sheet puff pastry
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup cranberry sauce or 1/3 cup chopped dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (parsley or rosemary), chopped

Egg Wash

• 1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
2. Roll Puff Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet gently, pressing out any creases to create a smooth and even surface.
3. Spread Cream Cheese: Evenly spread the softened cream cheese over the puff pastry, leaving a small border around the edges to allow sealing when rolled.
4. Add Fillings: Sprinkle cranberry sauce or chopped dried cranberries evenly over the cream cheese, then distribute the crumbled feta cheese on top for a balanced flavor.
5. Add Herbs: Scatter the chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or rosemary evenly over the fillings to enhance aroma and taste.
6. Roll and Slice: Carefully roll the pastry tightly from one long edge into a log shape, then slice the log into 1-inch pieces to form individual pinwheels.
7. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the pinwheels cut side up on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart to allow for puffing during baking.
8. Apply Egg Wash and Bake: Brush the tops of the pinwheels with the egg wash made of beaten egg and water for a glossy golden finish, then bake in the oven for 18-22 minutes until puffed and golden brown.

Notes

• You can substitute fresh herbs with dried herbs if fresh are unavailable, but reduce quantity by half.
• For a vegan version, substitute cream cheese with vegan cream cheese and use a plant-based egg wash alternative like almond milk.
• Ensure the puff pastry is well chilled before rolling for best texture and easier handling.
• Pinwheels can be served warm or at room temperature, making them ideal for parties or snacks.

Keywords: cheese pinwheels, puff pastry appetizers, cranberry feta snacks, baked snacks, party appetizers