Cranberry Feta Pinwheels with Cream Cheese

If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and absolutely delicious appetizer, Cranberry Feta Pinwheels with Cream Cheese are the perfect choice. These delightful little bites combine the creamy richness of cream cheese, the tangy saltiness of feta, and the sweet burst of cranberries—all wrapped in a soft tortilla for a delightful flavor explosion. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, a potluck, or just craving a tasty snack, these pinwheels are sure to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love Cranberry Feta Pinwheels

Perfect Balance of Sweet and Savory

One of the reasons these pinwheels are so popular is their unique blend of flavors. The sweetness of dried cranberries contrasts beautifully with the tanginess of feta cheese, while the cream cheese binds everything together in a smooth, luscious texture.

Quick and Easy to Make

No need to spend hours in the kitchen! These pinwheels come together in just 10-15 minutes, plus a little chill time in the fridge to make slicing easier.

Great for Parties and Gatherings

Cranberry Feta Pinwheels are a crowd-pleaser and perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a casual get-together, a holiday feast, or even meal-prepped snacks for the week.

Ingredients Needed

To make these irresistible pinwheels, you’ll need just a handful of simple ingredients:

Essential Ingredients:

• Large flour tortillas – Soft and pliable, perfect for rolling
• Cream cheese (softened) – The base that holds everything together
• Crumbled feta cheese – Adds a tangy and salty kick
• Dried cranberries (chopped) – Provides natural sweetness
• Green onions (chopped) – Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor

Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor:

• Chopped pecans or walnuts – Adds a crunchy texture
• Spinach or arugula – For a fresh, green contrast
• Honey or maple syrup – A slight drizzle can enhance the sweetness

Step-by-Step Recipe

1: Prepare the Filling

1. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped dried cranberries.
2. Add chopped green onions and any optional add-ins you prefer.
3. Mix everything together until well combined.

2: Assemble the Pinwheels

1. Lay a large flour tortilla flat on a clean surface.
2. Spread a generous layer of the cream cheese mixture evenly across the tortilla.
3. Start at one end and roll the tortilla tightly into a log.

3: Chill and Slice

1. Wrap the rolled tortilla in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps firm up the filling and makes slicing easier.
2. Remove from the fridge and use a sharp knife to cut into ½-inch slices.
3. Arrange the pinwheels on a serving platter and enjoy!

Best Tortillas to Use

For the best results, large, soft flour tortillas work best. They roll up easily and hold their shape well. Avoid using corn tortillas as they tend to crack.

Tips for Making the Best Pinwheels

• Don’t overfill the tortillas to prevent the filling from spilling out.
• Chill before slicing to get clean, even cuts.
• Use a serrated knife for the smoothest slices.

How to Store and Make Ahead

• Make ahead: Prepare the pinwheels up to 24 hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator.
• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these pinwheels as an appetizer, snack, or even a side dish. They pair wonderfully with a simple dip or sauce like:

• Honey mustard
• Greek yogurt dip
• Balsamic glaze

Variations of Cranberry Feta Pinwheels

Using Different Cheeses

Try swapping feta for goat cheese or cheddar for a different flavor twist.

Adding Nuts for Crunch

Chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds add an extra layer of texture and taste.

Making a Gluten-Free Version

Use gluten-free tortillas for a celiac-friendly option.

Perfect Occasions for Serving Cranberry Feta Pinwheels

• Holiday parties
• Thanksgiving or Christmas gatherings
• Baby showers
• Potlucks
• Game day snacks

Nutritional Information

Each serving (approx. 2 pinwheels) provides:

• Calories: ~120
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fats: 6g

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Skipping the chill time – Makes slicing messy.
2. Using a dull knife – Squishes the pinwheels.
3. Overfilling the tortillas – Leads to uneven rolling.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Dried cranberries are recommended for their sweet flavor, but you can use fresh ones if you chop them finely and balance their tartness with a touch of honey.

2. Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! These pinwheels taste even better after a few hours in the fridge as the flavors meld together.

3. What’s the best way to keep pinwheels from getting soggy?

Avoid using overly wet ingredients and store them in an airtight container.

4. Can I freeze cranberry feta pinwheels?

It’s best to enjoy them fresh, as freezing can make the tortillas soggy.

5. How can I make these pinwheels spicy?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or finely chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.

Cranberry Feta Pinwheels with Cream Cheese are a delicious, easy-to-make appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. With their irresistible combination of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors, these pinwheels will be the star of your party spread. Try out this simple recipe today and impress your guests!

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