Cranberry Jalapeño Cheddar Swirls (Printable)

Cheddar, cranberries, and jalapeño encased in golden puff pastry for a vibrant appetizer or snack.

# Components:

→ Dairy & Cheese

01 - 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
02 - 2 ounces cream cheese, softened

→ Vegetables & Fruit

03 - 2 tablespoons jalapeño, finely diced (seeds removed for less heat)
04 - 1/3 cup dried cranberries, chopped

→ Pastry

05 - 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed

→ Miscellaneous

06 - 1 egg, beaten
07 - 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
08 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
09 - Pinch of salt

# Method:

01 - Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - In a mixing bowl, combine sharp cheddar, cream cheese, jalapeño, cranberries, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix until evenly blended.
03 - On a lightly floured surface, roll thawed puff pastry into a 10 x 12-inch rectangle.
04 - Spread cheese filling over pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
05 - Starting at a long edge, roll pastry tightly into a log. Pinch seam to seal.
06 - With a sharp knife, cut the log into 16 equal rounds. Arrange on prepared baking sheet, cut side up and spaced slightly apart.
07 - Brush tops of swirls with beaten egg for a glossy finish.
08 - Bake 16–18 minutes until pastries are golden brown and puffed.
09 - Allow swirls to cool slightly before serving warm or at room temperature.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Burst of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors in every bite
  • Quick and easy to prepare with simple ingredients
02 -
  • Contains dairy, eggs, and gluten due to cheddar, cream cheese, egg, and puff pastry
  • Each swirl is approximately 110 calories
03 -
  • Sprinkle chopped chives or parsley on top for extra color and flavor
  • Can be assembled ahead and baked straight from the refrigerator