Sweet-tart cranberries, tangy feta, and velvety cream cheese all swirled in a soft tortilla—can you see why Cranberry Feta Pinwheels with Cream Cheese are one of my most reliable (and beloved) party tricks? This simple, no-cook appetizer is pure festive magic. Every bite brings together intriguing flavors and beautiful pops of color, making it an instant crowd-pleaser for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or anytime you want an addictively snackable treat that looks as gorgeous as it tastes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredient list for Cranberry Feta Pinwheels with Cream Cheese couldn’t be more straightforward, yet each element serves a delicious purpose. Every component adds a special touch, ensuring the perfect blend of creamy, tangy, sweet, and savory in every swirl.
- Flour Tortillas: Large, soft 10-inch tortillas are perfect for rolling and slicing into sturdy pinwheels that won’t fall apart.
- Cream Cheese: Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing and spreading; this provides a rich, creamy base that holds everything together.
- Dried Cranberries: Chopped for easy distribution, they bring a sweet-tart zing and a burst of jewel-toned color.
- Crumbled Feta Cheese: Tangy and salty, feta adds a wonderful contrast to the sweetness of the cranberries.
- Green Onions: Fresh, mild onion flavor and pretty pops of green really wake up the flavor and visual appeal.
- Garlic Powder: Just a hint gives depth and an inviting aroma to the filling mixture.
- Black Pepper: A pinch sharpens and balances everything with subtle heat.
How to Make Cranberry Feta Pinwheels with Cream Cheese
Step 1: Make the Filling
Start by grabbing a medium mixing bowl. Add your softened cream cheese, chopped dried cranberries, crumbled feta, diced green onions, garlic powder, and a pinch of black pepper. Stir everything together until thoroughly combined—the mixture should look wildly colorful, creamy, and evenly blended. Don’t be afraid to press the feta in gently so that it mixes without crumbling the cheese too much. This not only ensures every pinwheel is packed with flavor but also keeps the texture perfectly balanced.
Step 2: Spread and Roll
Lay out each large tortilla on a clean surface. Using an offset spatula or the back of a spoon, evenly spread half of the cream cheese mixture over each tortilla right up to the edges. Even coverage is key so that every bite sings with all the flavors. Once covered, roll each tortilla up tightly into a log. Make sure it’s snug to avoid gaps, which helps the pretty spiral shapes form later on.
Step 3: Chill to Set
Place your rolled tortillas on a plate and wrap them individually in plastic wrap. Pop them into the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (or up to overnight, if you’re making ahead). This short chill gives the filling time to firm up and makes the pinwheels easier and neater to slice—no smushing or messy cuts!
Step 4: Slice and Serve
Once the rolls are well chilled, remove the plastic wrap and place them on a cutting board. Using a very sharp knife, slice each log into 1/2-inch thick pinwheels. Wipe the knife clean between cuts for the cleanest, prettiest spirals. Arrange your Cranberry Feta Pinwheels with Cream Cheese on a platter, swirling side up, and get ready for lots of oohs and ahhs.
How to Serve Cranberry Feta Pinwheels with Cream Cheese
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or dill over the platter instantly adds more color and a delicate aroma. You can also scatter a few extra chopped cranberries or crumble a bit more feta on top for extra flair. For truly special occasions, a few microgreens or edible flowers will dazzle your guests.
Side Dishes
Serve Cranberry Feta Pinwheels with Cream Cheese alongside crisp veggie sticks—think bell peppers, cucumbers, or baby carrots—for freshness and crunch. They also make a fantastic addition to a cheese and charcuterie board, pairing perfectly with seed crackers, fresh fruit, and mixed nuts.
Creative Ways to Present
For holiday parties, arrange the pinwheels in the shape of a wreath on your serving plate and tuck a few rosemary sprigs or thinly sliced green onions around the platter to mimic winter greenery. Alternatively, stack them on a tiered serving tray for height and drama, or fan them in tight circles for an eye-catching pinwheel “bouquet.”
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store your Cranberry Feta Pinwheels with Cream Cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to two days, making them perfect for quick snacks or lunchbox treats the next day.
Freezing
While these pinwheels are best enjoyed fresh or after a short chill, you can freeze the uncut, tightly wrapped rolls for up to one month. When ready to serve, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and slice just before presenting. This trick keeps them tasting fresh and prevents sogginess.
Reheating
These pinwheels aren’t meant to be served hot, but if you’d like to take the chill off straight from the fridge, just let them sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving. This brings out the flavors and softens the texture just enough for the best bite.
FAQs
Can I use a different kind of cheese?
Absolutely! Goat cheese is a delicious swap for feta, or try blue cheese for something bold. You can even use a milder cheese like ricotta for a creamier, subtler profile. The star is really the balance with the cranberries and cream cheese, so play around with your favorites!
Do I have to use flour tortillas?
Flour tortillas work best for rolling and slicing, but feel free to use spinach or even sun-dried tomato tortillas for extra color and flavor. Just be sure they’re soft and fresh, so they don’t crack when rolled.
Can I make Cranberry Feta Pinwheels with Cream Cheese ahead of time?
Yes! This appetizer actually tastes even better when made ahead, as the flavors have time to mingle. Prepare the rolls the night before, chill, and slice just before serving to keep them fresh and pretty.
How do I prevent the pinwheels from unrolling?
Rolling tightly and chilling thoroughly is key. If you find your pinwheels are coming undone, add just a dab more cream cheese to the edge of the tortilla before rolling—it acts like delicious culinary glue!
Can I add extra ingredients for more flavor?
Definitely! Chopped fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or dill add brightness, and a bit of finely diced red bell pepper brings crunch and sweetness. Don’t be shy about experimenting to make these Cranberry Feta Pinwheels with Cream Cheese your very own signature snack.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re prepping for a holiday bash or just looking for a cheerful snack, Cranberry Feta Pinwheels with Cream Cheese are a surefire way to impress friends and family. With their stunning colors, surprising flavors, and delightful ease, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again. Give these pinwheels a whirl—you’ll be hooked after the first bite!
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Cranberry Feta Pinwheels with Cream Cheese Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Yield: 20 pinwheels 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Cranberry Feta Pinwheels with Cream Cheese are a delightful combination of tangy feta, sweet cranberries, and creamy cream cheese all rolled up in a tortilla. Perfect for parties or as a quick snack!
Ingredients
Tortillas:
- 2 large flour tortillas (10-inch)
Cream Cheese Mixture:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Pinch of black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, chopped cranberries, feta cheese, green onions, garlic powder, and black pepper until well combined.
- Assemble the Pinwheels: Spread half of the mixture evenly over each tortilla, all the way to the edges. Roll each tortilla tightly into a log.
- Chill and Slice: Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up. Unwrap and slice each roll into 1/2-inch thick pinwheels.
- Serve: Arrange on a platter and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- These pinwheels can be made up to a day in advance and stored in the fridge.
- For added color and flavor, mix in a few chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill.
- Use spinach tortillas for a festive twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pinwheel
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 130mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
