Cranberry Jalapeño Cheddar Swirls (Printer View)
Sweet cranberries, spicy jalapeño, and cheddar fill flaky pastry for festive golden swirls.
# Components:
→ Dairy & Cheese
01 - 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
02 - 2 ounces cream cheese, softened
→ Vegetables & Fruit
03 - 2 tablespoons jalapeño, finely diced (about 1 medium, 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 - Combine shredded cheddar, cream cheese, diced jalapeño, chopped cranberries, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt in a mixing bowl. Blend until uniform.
03 - On a lightly floured surface, roll puff pastry sheet into a 10x12-inch rectangle.
04 - Distribute cheese mixture evenly over pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border on all edges.
05 - Starting from one long edge, tightly roll up pastry into a log. Pinch seam to fully seal.
06 - Cut log into 16 equal rounds using a sharp knife. Arrange swirls cut-side up on prepared baking sheet, spacing slightly apart.
07 - Brush tops of swirls with beaten egg.
08 - Transfer swirls to oven and bake for 16–18 minutes, until golden brown and puffed.
09 - Let swirls cool slightly before serving warm or at room temperature.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- Packed with vibrant flavors: spicy, cheesy, and tangy
- Easy to make ahead for gatherings or snacking
02 -
- These pastries are best enjoyed the same day, but leftovers can be reheated in the oven for a few minutes.
- For less heat, remove all seeds from the jalapeño before dicing.
03 -
- Keep puff pastry cold until ready to use for flakier results.
- If making ahead, chill assembled swirls and bake just before guests arrive.