If you’re looking for that perfectly festive, sweet-and-savory bite-size treat to make you the hero of any party, look no further than these Cranberry Feta Pinwheels with Cream Cheese. This colorful finger food combines soft flour tortillas with a creamy, tangy mixture of cream cheese, beautifully sharp feta, chewy dried cranberries, and a gentle punch from green onions and garlic powder. Each slice bursts with holiday spirit but is simple enough for snacking any time of the year. Whether served as an appetizer, packed into lunchboxes, or brought to a potluck, these pinwheels are truly irresistible and always the first to disappear from the platter.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about Cranberry Feta Pinwheels with Cream Cheese is how the simplest ingredients come together for maximum flavor and eye-catching appeal. Each ingredient really counts, from the creamy base to the pops of color and contrast.
- Flour Tortillas: Use two large (10-inch) tortillas as the sturdy, soft wrapper that holds everything together and makes perfect pinwheels.
- Cream Cheese (8 oz, softened): The creamy, dreamy canvas that binds every component and gives the filling its irresistibly smooth texture.
- Dried Cranberries (½ cup): For beautiful splashes of sweetness and ruby-red color in every bite.
- Crumbled Feta Cheese (½ cup): Tangy, salty, and crumbly, feta brings a kick of flavor that balances the sweet cranberries and lush cream cheese.
- Chopped Green Onions (¼ cup): Fresh, sharp, and just a touch pungent, green onions wake up the whole mixture and add color.
- Garlic Powder (¼ teaspoon): A subtle background note that adds savory warmth and depth to the creamy filling.
- Salt and Pepper to Taste: Simple seasonings ensure every bite is vibrant and just right for your palate.
How to Make Cranberry Feta Pinwheels with Cream Cheese
Step 1: Prepare the Creamy Filling
Start by grabbing a medium mixing bowl and adding in your softened cream cheese, dried cranberries, crumbled feta, chopped green onions, garlic powder, and a good pinch each of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until the filling is smooth, well combined, and spreadable. You’ll see beautiful flecks of green and red throughout, and the texture should be creamy but studded with all those tasty bits.
Step 2: Spread and Layer
Take your two large tortillas and lay them flat on your work surface. Divide the cream cheese mixture evenly between the two. Using an offset spatula or butter knife, spread the filling all the way to the edges in a nice thin layer. This ensures every pinwheel is loaded with flavor, and you won’t have any empty bites at the ends.
Step 3: Roll ‘Em Up!
Starting at one edge, gently roll each tortilla up as tightly as you can without squishing the filling out. The tighter the roll, the more defined your pinwheels will be. Wrap the finished rolls in plastic wrap, sealing them snugly, and pop them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up. This chill time makes slicing a breeze and helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
Step 4: Slice and Serve
After chilling, unwrap your tortilla rolls and place on a cutting board. With a sharp serrated knife, cut each roll into ½-inch slices to create neat pinwheels. Arrange them cut-side up on your favorite platter, and get ready to watch them disappear!
How to Serve Cranberry Feta Pinwheels with Cream Cheese
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra chopped green onions or chives on top of your Cranberry Feta Pinwheels with Cream Cheese adds fresh color and brightness. You could also scatter a few more dried cranberries around the plate for an extra bit of holiday sparkle.
Side Dishes
Serve these pinwheels with a crisp green salad, a bowl of mixed olives, or a fruit platter for a colorful and satisfying spread. They’re lovely alongside roasted nuts or paired with sparkling beverages for a truly festive occasion.
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging the pinwheels in concentric circles or the shape of a wreath for holiday gatherings. For extra flair, tuck in a few rosemary sprigs or edible flowers. You can also serve the slices on individual appetizer spoons for an elegant touch at cocktail parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cranberry Feta Pinwheels with Cream Cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep them covered to stay soft and flavorful. If stacking, place a sheet of parchment or wax paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing
If you’d like to get ahead on prep, the uncut wrapped tortilla rolls can be frozen for up to one month. Simply thaw in the fridge overnight, then slice just before serving for the freshest taste and texture.
Reheating
These pinwheels are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so there’s no need for reheating. If they’ve been well chilled, let them sit out for a few minutes before serving to take the chill off and highlight their creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I make Cranberry Feta Pinwheels with Cream Cheese ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, these pinwheels taste even better when made a day ahead, as the flavors mingle and the filling sets for easy slicing. Wrap the rolls tightly in plastic and chill until you’re ready to slice and serve.
What’s the best way to keep the pinwheels from unrolling?
Chilling the rolled tortillas before slicing is key. The cream cheese firms up, which helps the pinwheels hold their shape. Also, spreading the filling evenly to the edges and rolling tightly will help them stay together.
Can I swap out any ingredients?
Definitely! Try goat cheese instead of feta for a extra tang, swap in fresh herbs for the green onion, or use raisins or chopped dried apricots instead of cranberries. You can also toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch.
How do I keep the tortillas from tearing?
Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened before mixing and spreading. If your tortillas are a bit stiff, briefly microwave them for 10 seconds to soften, making them easier to roll without breaking.
Are Cranberry Feta Pinwheels with Cream Cheese vegetarian?
Yes, as long as the feta cheese you’re using is made without animal rennet. Most grocery store feta is vegetarian-friendly, but always double-check if you’re serving folks with dietary restrictions.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so satisfying about whipping up a batch of Cranberry Feta Pinwheels with Cream Cheese and watching everyone reach for seconds. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want a colorful snack, these little rolls deliver big on flavor and wow factor. Give them a try—you’ll love how easy and popular they are!
Print
Cranberry Feta Pinwheels with Cream Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 20 pinwheels
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Cranberry Feta Pinwheels with Cream Cheese are a delightful appetizer or snack perfect for any occasion. Creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet, these pinwheels are easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
For the Pinwheels:
- 2 large flour tortillas (10-inch)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ¼ cup chopped green onions
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, prepare the cream cheese mixture: Combine softened cream cheese, dried cranberries, feta cheese, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and spreadable.
- Assemble the pinwheels: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over each tortilla. Roll up tightly, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Serve: Unwrap the chilled rolls and slice into ½-inch pinwheels before serving.
Notes
- For added texture and flavor, consider adding ¼ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to the cream cheese mixture.
- These pinwheels can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pinwheel
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
