Tasty Christmas Cranberry Feta Pinwheels

Tasty Christmas Cranberry Feta Pinwheels are a fun and festive snack perfect for holiday gatherings. These little bites combine flaky pastry with tangy feta cheese and sweet cranberry bits, all…

By Alina • October 30, 2025 • Reading time: 6 min

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Tasty Christmas Cranberry Feta Pinwheels are a fun and festive snack perfect for holiday gatherings. These little bites combine flaky pastry with tangy feta cheese and sweet cranberry bits, all rolled up into easy-to-eat pinwheels. They’re colorful, flavorful, and just the right balance of savory and sweet.

I love making these because they’re super simple and always a hit with friends and family. The cranberries add a nice pop of tartness that pairs so well with the creamy feta, and the soft, buttery dough keeps everything cozy. Whenever I pull these out at a party, they disappear quickly—I think everyone loves that perfect combo of flavors.

My favorite way to enjoy these pinwheels is warm, right out of the oven, with a cup of hot tea or festive punch nearby. They also travel well, so I often bring them to holiday potlucks or family get-togethers. Honestly, they’re a little festive treat that never fails to bring smiles and holiday cheer to the table.

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Puff Pastry: This is the base for the pinwheels, giving them a flaky, buttery texture. Ready-made sheets work great and save time. If you want a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free puff pastry in stores or try phyllo dough as a substitute, though it’s thinner and crispier.

Feta Cheese: Its tangy, salty flavor balances the sweetness of cranberries. If feta’s too strong, you can use cream cheese or goat cheese for a milder taste. Just keep it crumbled for the best texture.

Dried Cranberries: These add a festive sweet-tart pop. You can swap with dried cherries or raisins if cranberries aren’t available. If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the amount or soak them briefly in warm water to soften and mellow.

Fresh Herbs (Parsley, Dill, Spinach/Arugula): Herbs bring freshness and color. Parsley is key here, but dill and greens like spinach or arugula add depth. Feel free to use just parsley or any leafy herb you enjoy. Fresh is best, but dried herbs can work in a pinch—use sparingly.

How Can You Roll and Slice the Puff Pastry Without It Falling Apart?

Rolling and slicing puff pastry to make neat pinwheels can feel tricky, but with these tips, it’s easy:

• Make sure your puff pastry is thawed but still cool. If it’s too soft, it can tear; if frozen, it won’t roll well.
• After spreading the filling, leave a small border free on one edge—this helps seal the roll.
• Roll gently but firmly from the opposite long edge, keeping the roll tight to avoid gaps.
• Use a sharp knife and cut straight down without twisting to get clean slices.
• If the roll feels too soft while cutting, pop it in the fridge for 10-15 minutes to firm up before slicing.

These steps help keep the pinwheels intact and looking beautiful when baked. A little patience here makes a big difference in the final presentation!

Equipment You’ll Need

• Baking sheet – for baking the pinwheels evenly without sticking.
• Parchment paper – makes cleanup easy and stops the pastry from sticking.
• Sharp knife or pizza cutter – for clean, even slices of the rolled pastry.
• Mixing bowl – to combine your feta, cranberries, and herbs comfortably.
• Pastry brush – helps you spread egg wash nicely for a golden finish.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ins

• Swap feta with goat cheese for a creamier, tangy filling.
• Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture contrast.
• Mix in fresh rosemary or thyme for an earthy, festive herbal note.
• Use fresh or frozen cranberries instead of dried for juicier bursts.

Tasty Christmas Cranberry Feta Pinwheels

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Pinwheels:

• 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• ⅓ cup dried cranberries
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped (optional)
• 1 tbsp fresh spinach or arugula, chopped (optional)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 egg (for egg wash)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 15-18 minutes to bake. So in about 30-35 minutes, you can have delicious, warm pinwheels ready to enjoy. It’s quick and easy, perfect for a festive snack or appetizer!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare Your Baking Area:

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper so the pinwheels won’t stick and for easy cleanup.

2. Mix the Filling:

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry to smooth any creases. In a bowl, stir together crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, chopped parsley, dill, spinach or arugula (if using), minced garlic, olive oil, and a pinch of black pepper. This mixture will flavor your pinwheels with creamy, tangy, and sweet notes.

3. Roll and Slice:

Spread the filling evenly over the puff pastry, leaving about half an inch of the edge clear. Roll up the pastry tightly beginning from the edge opposite the free border, sealing it with a little water. Slice the roll into 1 to 1½ inch thick pinwheels using a sharp knife.

4. Bake to Perfection:

Place the pinwheels cut-side up on the baking sheet, spaced about an inch apart. Beat the egg and brush it lightly over the tops of each pinwheel to help them get a lovely golden color. Bake for about 15-18 minutes until the pastry is puffed and browned.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

Let the pinwheels cool for a few minutes before serving. They taste wonderful warm or at room temperature, making them a festive and easy appetizer or snack that everyone will love!

Can I Use Frozen Puff Pastry for These Pinwheels?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw the puff pastry completely in the refrigerator before rolling it out. Thawing helps prevent tearing and makes it easier to work with.

Can I Make the Pinwheels Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! You can prepare and roll the pinwheels, then refrigerate them covered for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to keep the pastry crisp.

Can I Substitute the Feta Cheese?

Yes! Goat cheese or cream cheese work well as alternatives if you prefer a milder flavor. Just crumble or spread them evenly as you would the feta.