Cranberry Feta Pinwheels

Cranberry Feta Pinwheels are a delightful little treat that mix the tangy sweetness of cranberries with the salty creaminess of feta cheese, all wrapped up in flaky puff pastry. These…

By Julia • January 10, 2026 • Reading time: 6 min

Save Recipe Print Recipe

Tip: save now, cook later.

Cranberry Feta Pinwheels are a delightful little treat that mix the tangy sweetness of cranberries with the salty creaminess of feta cheese, all wrapped up in flaky puff pastry. These bite-sized spirals are perfect when you want something tasty but not too heavy. The pop of red from the cranberries makes them look just as cheerful as they taste.

I love making these pinwheels for holiday gatherings or casual get-togethers. They always get a lot of attention and disappear quickly! My favorite tip is to chill the dough and filling before rolling it out, so the layers hold together nicely and slice cleanly. It makes the whole process smoother and the snacks easier to eat.

Serving these warm right out of the oven is my favorite—it makes the puff pastry extra crisp and the cheese just slightly melty. Sometimes I pair them with a simple green salad or even a cup of tea for a light snack. They’re a fun and pretty way to show a little love through food, especially when you want something quick but special.

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Puff Pastry: Puff pastry gives these pinwheels their flaky, buttery texture. If you don’t have puff pastry, you can try phyllo dough, but it’ll be thinner and crisper. Store-bought frozen puff pastry makes this recipe easy and fast.

Feta Cheese: Feta adds a salty tang that balances the sweetness of the cranberries. If you’re not a fan of feta, goat cheese or cream cheese alone also work well for a creamy texture.

Dried Cranberries: They bring in a sweet, tart flavor. You can substitute with dried cherries or raisins if you prefer, though they’ll change the taste slightly.

Parsley & Lemon Zest: These fresh elements brighten up the filling. You can swap parsley for basil or thyme for a different herbal note.

How Do You Roll and Slice the Pinwheels So They Stay Together?

Rolling and slicing are key to making neat, pretty pinwheels that hold their shape during baking. Here’s how to do it:

• Roll the puff pastry tightly from the filled edge to form a close log—this keeps the filling snug.
• Wrap the rolled log in plastic wrap and chill for at least 20 minutes before slicing. This firms it up and stops the filling from spilling out.
• Use a very sharp knife and cut the log evenly into slices about ½ to ¾ inch thick. Wipe the knife blade clean between cuts if needed to keep slices neat.
• Place pinwheels on a parchment-lined pan with some space between so they bake evenly and crisp up nicely.

Following these tips ensures you get beautiful spiral pinwheels that bake up perfectly with the filling inside every bite.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Baking sheet – perfect for baking the pinwheels evenly and catching any melted cheese drips.
• Parchment paper – prevents sticking and makes cleanup so much easier.
• Sharp knife – helps you slice the rolled pastry into clean, even pinwheels.
• Mixing bowl – for combining the cheese, cranberries, and herbs smoothly.
• Pastry brush – lets you apply the egg wash evenly for a golden, shiny top.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ins

• Swap feta for goat cheese for a creamier, milder tang that pairs well with cranberries.
• Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a nice crunch and nuttier flavor.
• Mix in fresh rosemary or thyme instead of parsley for an herby twist that complements the cheese.
• Include cooked, crumbled bacon for a smoky, salty boost if you like savory-sweet combos.

Cranberry Feta Pinwheels

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For The Pinwheels:

• 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
• 4 oz (about 1/2 cup) crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries, chopped
• 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Pinch of dried oregano or Italian seasoning (optional)
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-18 minutes to bake, for a total of roughly 25-30 minutes. The easy assembly and quick baking time make these a great choice for a last-minute appetizer or snack.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

2. Make the Filling:

In a medium bowl, mix the crumbled feta, softened cream cheese, chopped dried cranberries, parsley, minced garlic, lemon zest, black pepper, and optional herbs until everything is well blended.

3. Roll Out the Puff Pastry:

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet into an approximately 12×12 inch square for easy spreading of the filling.

4. Assemble the Pinwheels:

Spread the filling mixture evenly over the pastry sheet, leaving about a 1/2 inch border free on one edge. Carefully roll up the pastry starting from the filled edge to form a tight log.

5. Slice and Bake:

Using a sharp knife, slice the rolled log into pinwheels about 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick. Place these rounds cut-side up spaced about an inch apart on the baking sheet. Brush the tops lightly with beaten egg for a golden finish.

6. Bake Until Golden:

Bake for 15-18 minutes, until the puff pastry is nicely golden and cooked through. Let them cool slightly before moving to a plate for serving.

7. Serve and Enjoy:

Garnish with extra chopped parsley if you like. Serve your cranberry feta pinwheels warm or at room temperature as a tasty appetizer or snack that balances sweet and savory flavors beautifully.

Can I Use Frozen Cranberries Instead of Dried?

Fresh or frozen cranberries can be used, but be sure to drain and pat them dry well to avoid excess moisture, which can make the puff pastry soggy. Dried cranberries are best for maintaining a chewy texture and preventing the pastry from getting soggy.

Can I Make These Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the pinwheel log, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before slicing and baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from chilled.

How Should I Store Leftover Pinwheels?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a 350°F oven for about 5-7 minutes to refresh the puff pastry’s crispness.

What Can I Serve With Cranberry Feta Pinwheels?

These pinwheels pair well with a fresh green salad, a light soup, or even as part of a festive appetizer spread with dips and cheeses.