Cranberry Feta Pinwheels are a festive and flavorful appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or casual get-togethers. Featuring a creamy filling of tangy feta cheese, sweet dried cranberries, and fresh chives, these easy-to-make tortilla pinwheels are as delicious as they are beautiful. With no cooking required and only 10 minutes of prep time, this recipe is a lifesaver during the busy holiday season!
These pinwheels are a delightful combination of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors. The bright cranberries pair perfectly with the salty feta cheese, while the fresh chives add a burst of savory freshness. Rolled up in soft flour tortillas, they make for an elegant yet simple appetizer that’s ideal for parties or as a fun snack for the family.
Why You’ll Love Cranberry Feta Pinwheels
- Quick and Easy: Just mix, spread, roll, and slice.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for prepping ahead of time.
- Holiday-Ready: Festive flavors and colors make these a perfect seasonal snack.
Ingredients Notes for Cranberry Feta Pinwheels
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened: Creates the creamy base for the filling. Let it soften for easier mixing.
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese: Adds tangy, salty flavor to balance the sweetness of the cranberries.
- ⅓ cup chopped fresh chives: Brings a fresh, oniony flavor to the mix.
- 1 ½ cups dried cranberries: Provide a sweet, chewy contrast to the creamy and savory elements.
- 4 large flour tortillas (10-inch): Soft and pliable, making them perfect for rolling.
Kitchen Tools Needed for Cranberry Feta Pinwheels
- Mixing bowl
- Hand mixer or spoon for combining ingredients
- Plastic wrap
- Sharp knife for slicing
How to Make Cranberry Feta Pinwheels
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until light and fluffy. Add the crumbled feta cheese, chopped chives, and dried cranberries. Mix until well combined.
Step 2: Assemble the Pinwheels
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the surface of each tortilla, ensuring the filling reaches all the edges.
Step 3: Roll and Chill
Roll each tortilla tightly into a log, then wrap it in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the filling to set and the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Slice and Serve
Remove the plastic wrap and use a sharp knife to slice each rolled tortilla into 1-inch pieces. Arrange the pinwheels on a platter and serve immediately.
How to Store Cranberry Feta Pinwheels
Store any leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. These pinwheels are best enjoyed fresh but can be made up to a day in advance for convenience.
Cranberry Feta Pinwheel Variations
- Savory Additions: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and nuttiness.
- Herb Swap: Substitute parsley or dill for the chives for a different herbaceous flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free tortillas to accommodate dietary preferences.
What to Serve with Cranberry Feta Pinwheels
- Cheese Board: Pair with assorted cheeses, crackers, and fresh fruit for a festive spread.
- Holiday Cocktails: Serve alongside sparkling cider, mulled wine, or champagne.
- Salads: Add these pinwheels to a leafy green salad for a fun twist on a side dish.
Top Tips for Perfect Cranberry Feta Pinwheels
- Soften the Cream Cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened to ensure a smooth and easy-to-spread filling.
- Spread Evenly: Distribute the filling evenly to prevent gaps when slicing.
- Chill Thoroughly: Refrigerating the rolled tortillas ensures clean slices and helps the flavors meld.
- Use a Sharp Knife: A sharp knife will create neat, even pinwheels without squishing the rolls.
Helpful Notes
- Let the tortillas sit at room temperature before assembling to make them easier to roll.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle a small amount of salt and pepper over the filling before rolling.
- Avoid overstuffing the tortillas, as too much filling can cause the pinwheels to lose their shape.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Ree Drummond: “Add a drizzle of honey for a touch of sweetness to balance the tangy feta.”
- Ina Garten: “Always use fresh herbs for the best flavor in no-cook recipes.
- Martha Stewart: “Make ahead and keep wrapped until just before serving to maintain freshness.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the rolls a day ahead, refrigerate, and slice just before serving.
2. Can I use a different cheese?
Absolutely! Goat cheese or cream cheese alone work as great substitutes for feta.
3. How do I prevent the pinwheels from unrolling?
Roll tightly and refrigerate the logs before slicing to help them hold their shape.
4. Can I freeze these pinwheels?
Freezing is not recommended as the cream cheese can lose its texture when thawed.
5. What tortillas work best?
Soft, pliable flour tortillas are ideal for rolling without cracking.
Cranberry Feta Pinwheels are the perfect make-ahead appetizer, combining tangy, sweet, and creamy flavors in every bite. They’re festive, versatile, and sure to be a hit at any holiday party or gathering!
Easy Cranberry Feta Pinwheels
Ingredients
- – 8 ounces cream cheese softened
- – 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- – ⅓ cup chopped fresh chives
- – 1 ½ cups dried cranberries
- – 4 large flour tortillas 10-inch
Instructions
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture: Place cream cheese in a small bowl and beat until fluffy.
- Mix Ingredients: Add in the feta cheese, chives, and dried cranberries. Mix well to combine.
- Spread and Roll: Spread the mixture evenly over the 4 tortillas. Roll each tortilla tightly and wrap in plastic wrap.
- Chill: Refrigerate the wrapped tortillas for at least 1 hour to firm up.
- Slice: Remove the plastic wrap
- Serve: Cut into slices, and serve.
Notes
- Nutritional information provided is an estimate and may vary depending on cooking methods and ingredient brands.
- For extra flavor, try adding chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, to the filling.
- These pinwheels can be made a day in advance for convenience.
