Save A festive and flavorful savory pastry featuring sharp cheddar, tart cranberries, and a kick of fresh jalapeño, all wrapped in flaky puff pastry. These swirls make the perfect appetizer or snack for any holiday gathering or cozy occasion.
I first created these swirls for a holiday party and they quickly disappeared from the platter. The combination of melted cheddar and cranberries with a touch of jalapeño was an unexpected hit.
Ingredients
- Sharp cheddar cheese: 1 cup (115 g), shredded
- Cream cheese: 2 oz (55 g), softened
- Jalapeño: 2 tbsp, finely diced (about 1 medium, seeds removed for less heat)
- Dried cranberries: 1/3 cup (40 g), chopped
- Puff pastry: 1 sheet (about 250 g), frozen and thawed
- Egg: 1, beaten (for egg wash)
- Garlic powder: 1/4 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Salt: pinch
Instructions
- Prep the oven:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Make the filling:
- In a bowl, mix the shredded cheddar, cream cheese, jalapeño, cranberries, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt until well combined.
- Roll the pastry:
- On a lightly floured surface, roll the puff pastry sheet into a 10x12-inch (25x30 cm) rectangle.
- Add the filling:
- Evenly spread the cheese mixture over the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch (1 cm) border on all sides.
- Shape the swirls:
- From a long edge, tightly roll the pastry into a log. Pinch the seam to seal.
- Slice and arrange:
- Use a sharp knife to slice the log into 16 equal rounds. Place swirls cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet, spacing slightly apart.
- Egg wash:
- Brush the tops with beaten egg.
- Bake:
- Bake for 16–18 minutes, or until golden-brown and puffed.
- Serve:
- Cool slightly before serving warm or at room temperature.
Save My family loves these swirls straight from the oven and they have become a yearly tradition at our holiday brunch.
Required Tools
Mixing bowl, rolling pin, sharp knife, baking sheet, parchment paper, pastry brush
Allergen Information
This recipe contains dairy, eggs, and gluten. Always check ingredient labels if serving anyone with allergies.
Nutritional Information
Each swirl contains 110 calories, 7 g fat, 9 g carbohydrates, and 3 g protein.
Save Serve these warm for the best taste and enjoy their festive flavors at any gathering.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I make these swirls ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the swirls and refrigerate them before baking. Bake fresh for optimal texture and flavor.
- → Is there a substitute for cheddar cheese?
Monterey Jack or Gruyère can be used instead, providing a different taste while maintaining creaminess.
- → How spicy are these swirls?
Jalapeño heat is mild with seeds removed. Adjust quantity for more or less spice according to your preference.
- → Can these be served cold?
Swirls taste best warm but are also delicious at room temperature, making them convenient for parties.
- → What can I garnish these with?
Sprinkle chopped chives or parsley on top after baking for added flavor and a colorful presentation.
- → How do I prevent pastry from unrolling during baking?
Roll tightly and pinch the seam to seal before slicing and placing on the baking sheet.