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These festive cranberry pinwheels are a favorite in my home for holiday parties because they bring together creamy tangy cheese and the sweet chew of cranberries all wrapped in a soft tortilla. They make a colorful and crowd-pleasing appetizer that is always the first to disappear from the table.
The first time I brought these to a Christmas potluck they vanished within minutes and my friends still ask me for the recipe every year.
Ingredients
- Chopped green onions: they bring color and a gentle bite choose fresh firm stalks for best flavor
- Sweetened dried cranberries: they add fruity sweetness soak in warm water to bring out their chewiness
- Crumbled feta cheese: gives a briny creamy contrast look for feta in brine for the richest flavor
- Flour tortillas: large and soft makes for easy rolling and neat slices use the 10 inch size for best results
- Cream cheese softened: spreads smoothly choose a good quality cream cheese like Philadelphia for best results
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling Mixture:
- Combine softened cream cheese crumbled feta drained cranberries and chopped green onions in a large mixing bowl. Mix thoroughly until the cranberries and cheese are evenly distributed throughout the smooth creamy base. Make sure there are no big clusters.
- Assemble the Tortilla Rolls:
- Lay each tortilla flat on a clean surface. Divide the filling evenly between them. Spread the mixture in a gentle even layer to the edge but leave about half an inch free to avoid overfilling.
- Roll and Chill the Tortillas:
- Starting at one edge roll each tortilla up tightly so the filling stays tucked inside. Wrap each rolled tortilla snugly in plastic wrap to lock in moisture and hold its shape. Chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour. This rest allows the flavors to blend and makes slicing much cleaner.
- Slice and Serve:
- Unwrap the chilled rolls. Using a sharp knife cut into bite-sized pinwheels about one inch thick. Wipe the blade between cuts for neat slices. Arrange on a festive platter and serve cold.
I am always charmed by the ruby red cranberries peeking out in each swirl. They remind me of my daughter sneaking extra cranberries while helping me make these on Christmas Eve.
Storage Tips
Store any leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Lay parchment between layers to prevent sticking. If serving after storing allow them to sit at room temperature for a few minutes so the flavors bloom.
Ingredient Substitutions
No feta Try goat cheese or even a sharp white cheddar for a milder bite. Swap cranberries for dried cherries if you prefer. Whole wheat tortillas also work but may be a touch firmer to roll.
Serving Suggestions
These pinwheels are a pretty addition to appetizer platters. Garnish your platter with fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary for extra holiday flair. They also shine as a potluck shareable or a fun weekday snack.
Cultural and Seasonal Context
Pinwheels are a classic party food in American gatherings especially during holidays. This cranberry and cheese combination brings wintry flavors to festive tables from Thanksgiving through New Years.
Seasonal Adaptations
Fresh basil or dill can be mixed in instead of green onion for a brighter summertime version Try orange zest in the filling for citrusy notes Add a handful of toasted nuts for crunch during autumn celebrations
Success Stories
Several readers have told me these pinwheels are now their must-have Christmas appetizer. One friend said her picky eater kids love anything with cream cheese so these became a lunchbox staple even in January.
Freezer Meal Conversion
Make and roll the tortillas as directed but do not slice. Wrap tightly in plastic and store in the freezer for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge slice just before serving and you are ready to go.
These cranberry pinwheels are always a hit and make any celebration extra special. Their festive color and flavor will brighten your holiday table every time.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I substitute fresh cranberries for dried in the filling?
Dried cranberries are recommended for sweetness and texture, but fresh cranberries may be used if finely chopped and sweetened to taste.
- → What type of tortillas work best for rolling?
Use large, soft flour tortillas (preferably 10-inch size) for easier rolling and even slices. Avoid tortillas with cracks for best results.
- → How should the pinwheels be stored?
Store pinwheels wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to two days. Slice just before serving for freshness.
- → Can I prepare these pinwheels ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble and chill the rolls a day in advance, then slice them just before serving to maintain texture and appearance.
- → Are there cream cheese alternatives for the filling?
Neufchâtel or goat cheese may be used as a substitute, but ensure the cheese is soft for smooth spreading and mixing.