Cranberry Feta Pinwheels with Cream Cheese

Cranberry Feta Pinwheels with Cream Cheese are a delightful combination of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors, wrapped in soft tortillas for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack. These bite-sized pinwheels bring together the festive sweetness of dried cranberries, the rich creaminess of cream cheese, the tanginess of crumbled feta, and a hint of freshness from green onions or herbs. Perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or simple weekday snacks, they are as beautiful as they are delicious.

What makes these pinwheels a must-have on your appetizer table is their simplicity and elegance. They require just a handful of ingredients, and the assembly process is incredibly easy, making them ideal for both beginner and experienced home cooks. Whether you’re serving them at a Christmas party, Thanksgiving dinner, or casual brunch, these pinwheels are guaranteed to be the first to disappear.

With their vibrant colors and irresistible flavor profile, Cranberry Feta Pinwheels with Cream Cheese are a festive, fuss-free appetizer that can be prepared in advance, saving you valuable time while ensuring you have a show-stopping dish ready to impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: These pinwheels require minimal prep time and can be assembled in just 15 minutes. No cooking or baking is required!

Festive and Elegant: With their red cranberries, creamy white filling, and flecks of green, they’re the perfect addition to holiday tables.

Flavorful Combination: The tangy feta balances beautifully with the sweet cranberries, creamy texture, and fresh green onions.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare these pinwheels ahead of time, refrigerate, and slice just before serving for stress-free entertaining.

Versatile and Customizable: You can easily adjust the recipe with additional ingredients like nuts, herbs, or different cheeses to suit your preferences.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Chill Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 24 pinwheels
• Serving Size: 2 pinwheels

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 110 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 6g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 5g

Ingredients

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries, roughly chopped
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for added sweetness)
• 4 large flour tortillas (10-inch)
• Fresh parsley or dill (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and honey (if using). Stir until smooth and well blended.
2. Fold in the chopped dried cranberries, crumbled feta cheese, and finely chopped green onions. Mix gently until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 2: Assemble the Pinwheels

1. Lay one tortilla flat on a clean surface or cutting board. Spread a generous layer of the cream cheese mixture evenly across the entire surface of the tortilla, leaving about a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
2. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and filling.

Step 3: Roll the Tortillas

1. Starting at one edge, tightly roll up each tortilla into a log. Apply gentle pressure to ensure the filling sticks and the roll holds together.
2. Place the rolled tortillas seam-side down on a plate or tray.

Step 4: Chill the Pinwheels

1. Cover the rolled tortillas with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling allows the cream cheese to firm up, making it easier to slice cleanly.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

1. After chilling, use a sharp knife to trim off the ends of each tortilla roll (these can be enjoyed as a snack for the chef!).
2. Slice the tortillas into 1-inch thick pinwheels. Arrange the pinwheels on a serving platter.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill for an added festive touch, if desired. Serve immediately or keep chilled until ready to serve.

Ingredient Background

Cream Cheese

Cream cheese serves as the creamy, tangy base for these pinwheels. It binds the ingredients together and provides a smooth texture that complements the other components. For best results, use full-fat cream cheese, as it holds up better during spreading and rolling.

Dried Cranberries

Dried cranberries add a festive pop of color and natural sweetness to balance the salty and tangy feta. They also provide a chewy texture that contrasts beautifully with the cream cheese.

Feta Cheese

Feta brings a crumbly, tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweet cranberries. Its distinct sharpness elevates the overall flavor of the pinwheels, making each bite more exciting.

Green Onions

Green onions provide a mild onion flavor and a pop of freshness. They also add visual appeal, creating a beautiful contrast with the creamy filling and cranberries.

Honey (Optional)

A small amount of honey can be added to enhance the sweetness and balance the tanginess of the feta. This step is optional but highly recommended for those who prefer a slightly sweeter flavor profile.

Technique Tips

• Even Spreading: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the tortillas to ensure each pinwheel has the perfect balance of filling.
• Tight Rolling: Roll the tortillas as tightly as possible to prevent the pinwheels from unraveling when sliced.
• Chilling Time: Don’t skip the chilling step! Chilling the rolls makes slicing easier and helps maintain the pinwheels’ shape.
• Sharp Knife: Use a sharp knife to slice the pinwheels cleanly. Wipe the blade between cuts to keep the edges neat.

Recipe Variations

• Nutty Addition: Sprinkle 1/4 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts into the filling for added crunch and nutty flavor.
• Herb Infusion: Mix fresh dill, parsley, or basil into the cream cheese for an extra layer of freshness.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot honey for a sweet and spicy twist.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free tortillas for a gluten-free version of this recipe.
• Cheddar Twist: Replace feta with shredded sharp white cheddar for a milder, creamier flavor.

Freezing and Storing

Refrigeration

Store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep them fresh, place a sheet of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing

While these pinwheels are best enjoyed fresh, they can be frozen for up to 1 month. Wrap the rolled tortillas tightly in plastic wrap before slicing. Thaw in the refrigerator and slice before serving.

Reheating Tip

These pinwheels are best served chilled or at room temperature. Reheating is not necessary.

Serving Suggestions for Events

Holiday Appetizer: These festive pinwheels are perfect for Christmas, Thanksgiving, or any holiday gathering. Arrange them on a decorative platter with a garnish of fresh rosemary or mint leaves and a few extra cranberries to enhance their holiday appeal. They not only taste delicious but also add a vibrant pop of color to your appetizer table.

Potluck Favorite: Cranberry Feta Pinwheels are a fantastic choice for potlucks and gatherings. They’re easy to transport—simply pack the sliced pinwheels in a sturdy, airtight container. Serve them chilled straight from the fridge, and watch as guests gravitate toward their beautiful presentation and irresistible flavor. Consider adding toothpicks for easy grabbing during busy events.

Brunch Delight: Add these pinwheels to a well-rounded brunch menu that includes fruit platters, yogurt parfaits, freshly baked pastries, and mimosas. Their sweet and savory combination pairs beautifully with brunch staples, offering a unique alternative to traditional finger foods like croissants or muffins.

Snack Board: These pinwheels make an elegant addition to a snack or charcuterie board. Place them alongside nuts, assorted cheeses, crackers, fresh fruit like grapes or apple slices, and spreads like hummus or honey. Their colorful presentation and creamy texture provide balance to the variety of textures and flavors on the board, making it ideal for entertaining.

Special Equipment

Mixing Bowl: A medium-sized mixing bowl is perfect for combining the cream cheese, dried cranberries, feta, and green onions. It allows for easy mixing and ensures that all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.

Spatula: Use a spatula to spread the cream cheese mixture smoothly and evenly across the tortillas. This ensures the filling is well distributed, providing consistent flavor in every bite.

Sharp Knife: A sharp knife is essential for slicing the rolled tortillas into clean, even pinwheels. Wipe the blade between cuts to keep the edges neat and prevent any smearing of the filling.

Plastic Wrap: Plastic wrap is key for keeping the rolled tortillas fresh and firm while they chill in the refrigerator. It helps the filling set, ensuring the pinwheels maintain their shape and are easier to slice before serving. For an eco-friendly alternative, use beeswax wraps or reusable silicone covers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a different type of cheese instead of feta?
Yes! You can substitute feta with goat cheese, sharp white cheddar, or even shredded mozzarella for a milder flavor.

2. Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the rolls up to 24 hours in advance, chill them in the refrigerator, and slice just before serving.

3. Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Dried cranberries work best for this recipe as they provide sweetness and chewiness. Fresh cranberries may be too tart and watery.

4. How do I prevent the pinwheels from falling apart?
Make sure to roll the tortillas tightly and chill them for at least an hour before slicing. This helps the cream cheese filling firm up.

5. What tortillas work best for this recipe?
Large, soft flour tortillas are ideal as they’re easy to roll and hold the filling well. You can also use spinach or whole wheat tortillas for variety.

6. Can I freeze these pinwheels?
Yes, you can freeze the rolled tortillas before slicing. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

7. How can I add more texture to the filling?
Add chopped nuts, shredded carrots, or even diced bell peppers for extra crunch and variety.

8. What can I serve alongside these pinwheels?
Pair them with a veggie platter, fruit skewers, or assorted dips for a complete appetizer spread.

Conclusion

Cranberry Feta Pinwheels with Cream Cheese are a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making them an excellent choice for any occasion. Their vibrant appearance, creamy filling, and balanced sweet and savory taste create a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s both elegant and easy to prepare.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, brunch, or potluck, these pinwheels are sure to impress your guests. The simplicity of the recipe allows you to prepare them in advance, saving you time while still delivering a stunning dish.

So, the next time you’re looking for a quick, flavorful, and festive appetizer, try these Cranberry Feta Pinwheels with Cream Cheese. With endless customization options and guaranteed deliciousness, they’ll quickly become a go-to favorite in your recipe collection!

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