Cranberry and Feta Pinwheels

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: The recipe is quick, with no cooking required. It’s perfect for busy hosts who need to prepare a dish in a short amount of time.

• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the pinwheels a day ahead and refrigerate them, saving you time on the day of the event.

• Versatile and Customizable: While the recipe is delicious as is, you can easily add extra ingredients like nuts, meats, or herbs to tailor the flavor.

• Beautiful Presentation: The bright red cranberries, creamy cheese, and green onions make these pinwheels an eye-catching addition to any platter.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened

• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

• 1/4 cup chopped green onions

• 1/2 cup dried sweetened cranberries

• 2 large flour tortillas (10-inch)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, crumbled feta, chopped green onions, and dried cranberries. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

2. Spread the Filling: Spread half of the cream cheese mixture evenly over each tortilla, creating a thin layer.

3. Roll the Tortillas: Carefully roll each tortilla tightly into a log shape, ensuring the filling is evenly distributed throughout.

4. Chill the Rolls: Wrap the rolled tortillas in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the pinwheels to firm up.

5. Slice and Serve: Remove the pinwheels from the refrigerator, unwrap the plastic wrap, and slice each roll into 1/2-inch pieces. Arrange the pinwheels on a platter and serve chilled.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 20-24 pinwheels

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Chill Time: 1 hour

• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (includes chilling)

Variations

• Add Nuts: For a delightful crunch, finely chop pecans or walnuts and mix them into the cream cheese mixture.

• Make It Spicy: Spice things up by adding a dash of hot sauce or chopped jalapeños to the mixture.

• Vegan Version: Substitute cream cheese and feta with plant-based alternatives to make this recipe vegan-friendly.

• Use Different Wraps: Swap out the flour tortillas for whole grain wraps, lavash, or even spinach tortillas for added flavor and texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store the pinwheels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

• Make Ahead: These pinwheels can be made up to 24 hours in advance. Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate.

• Freezing: Freezing is not recommended as it may affect the texture of the cream cheese filling.

FAQs

1. Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them a day in advance. Just refrigerate the rolled tortillas wrapped in plastic wrap and slice them right before serving.

2. Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Dried cranberries are preferred for their sweetness and chewy texture, but fresh cranberries can be used if you prefer a tart flavor. You’ll need to adjust the sweetness accordingly.

3. How long can I store the leftovers?

Leftover pinwheels can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

4. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute feta with goat cheese, cream cheese, or even blue cheese for a different flavor profile.

5. Are these pinwheels gluten-free?

If you use gluten-free tortillas, this recipe can easily be made gluten-free.

6. How can I make these pinwheels spicy?

Add some chopped jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the cream cheese mixture to give the pinwheels a spicy kick.

7. How do I prevent the pinwheels from unrolling?

Make sure the tortillas are rolled tightly and that the filling is spread evenly. Chilling the rolls helps the filling set, keeping them tightly wrapped.

8. Can I serve these pinwheels warm?

These pinwheels are best served cold or at room temperature. Warming them may cause the filling to lose its creamy texture.

9. How can I make these pinwheels more visually appealing?

You can garnish the pinwheels with additional chopped green onions, fresh herbs, or even a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds for extra color and visual appeal.

Conclusion

Cranberry and Feta Pinwheels are the perfect appetizer for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to formal holiday parties. With their bright colors, delicious flavor, and ease of preparation, they’re sure to be a crowd favorite. Plus, their versatility means you can adjust the ingredients to suit any taste. Try these pinwheels at your next gathering—you’ll be amazed at how quickly they disappear!