Cranberry Feta Pinwheels

Featured in Irresistible Tasty Bites.

Need a simple yet impressive holiday appetizer? These cranberry feta pinwheels hit all the right notes - sweet, salty, and creamy. Plus, you can make them ahead, making party prep a breeze.

Clare Greco
Updated on Mon, 20 Jan 2025 16:12:39 GMT
A plate of rolled tortillas filled with cream cheese, herbs, and dried cranberries, showcasing colorful spirals. Pin it
A plate of rolled tortillas filled with cream cheese, herbs, and dried cranberries, showcasing colorful spirals. | recipesbyclare.com

The magic of Christmas comes alive in these cranberry feta pinwheels. I love how the sweet cranberries dance with creamy cheese and salty feta in every bite. My guests always light up when they spot these festive appetizers on my holiday table.

Why These Pinwheels Win Hearts

I stumbled upon this recipe while planning my first holiday party and it's been my secret weapon ever since. The beautiful combo of sweet cranberries tangy feta and fresh green onions creates pure magic. When I use spinach tortillas they look so festive people think I spent hours in the kitchen. Truth is they come together in minutes with zero cooking.

What You'll Need

  • Cream Cheese: Leave it on your counter to soften. Trust me this makes spreading a breeze.
  • Feta Cheese: The salty punch from crumbled feta makes these pinwheels irresistible.
  • Dried Cranberries: Chop them small so you get that sweet pop in every bite.
  • Green Onions: Just the green parts give such a fresh taste without overpowering.
  • Spinach Tortillas: They look gorgeous and roll beautifully. Regular flour tortillas work too.

Creating Your Pinwheels

Mix Your Filling
Grab a bowl and mix your softened cream cheese feta cranberries and green onions until everything comes together.
Time to Spread
Take your time spreading the filling right to the edges. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
Roll and Chill
Roll each tortilla tight like a sleeping bag. Wrap in plastic and pop in the fridge for an hour.
The Final Touch
Once chilled slice into pretty pinwheels and arrange them on your favorite platter.
A platter of rolled pastry swirls filled with cream cheese, green peppers, and cranberries. Pin it
A platter of rolled pastry swirls filled with cream cheese, green peppers, and cranberries. | recipesbyclare.com

Make Them Pretty

My favorite way to serve these is arranged in a Christmas tree shape on my grandmother's silver platter. I sprinkle extra cranberries around the edges and tuck in fresh herbs. Everyone stops to snap photos before diving in.

Party Planning Made Easy

I always make these pinwheels the night before my parties. They stay perfectly fresh wrapped up in the fridge for three days. Such a lifesaver during busy holiday hosting.

Mix It Up

  • Tortillas: Red sundried tomato wraps look stunning too. Regular flour ones taste just as good.
  • Cranberries: Sometimes I swap in dried cherries or golden raisins when my pantry runs low.
  • Feta Cheese: Goat cheese makes them extra creamy. Regular cream cheese works in a pinch.
  • Green Onions: Fresh chives or parsley add different flavors when I want to switch things up.
A plate of rolled pastry slices filled with cream cheese, herbs, and cranberries, arranged neatly for presentation. Pin it
A plate of rolled pastry slices filled with cream cheese, herbs, and cranberries, arranged neatly for presentation. | recipesbyclare.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How far ahead can I make these pinwheels?

You can prepare the rolls up to two days before your event. Keep them wrapped in plastic in the fridge and slice them just before serving for the best look.

→ Why shouldn't I use reduced-fat feta?

Regular feta has the right moisture content for these pinwheels. Reduced-fat feta is too dry and won't blend well with other ingredients.

→ Can I use different tortilla flavors?

Yes, wheat or spinach tortillas work great. They not only taste good but also add a nice color to your appetizer platter.

→ How do I keep the pinwheels from unrolling?

Roll the tortillas tightly and wrap them well in plastic wrap. Chilling them for at least an hour helps them hold their shape when sliced.

→ What's the best way to serve these?

Cut each roll into 12 even slices just before serving. Arrange them on a platter with the spiral facing up for the prettiest presentation.

Tasty Christmas Cranberry Feta Pinwheels

A perfect blend of sweet cranberries and tangy feta cheese wrapped in soft tortillas. These pinwheels are a holiday crowd favorite.

Prep Time
75 Minutes
Cook Time
~
Total Time
75 Minutes

Category: Tasty Bites

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: American

Yield: 24 Servings (24 pinwheels)

Dietary: Vegetarian

Ingredients

01 3/4 cup dried sweetened cranberries.
02 8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature.
03 3/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (not reduced-fat).
04 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped.
05 2 large flour tortillas (wheat or spinach flavored).

Instructions

Step 01

Put cranberries, softened cream cheese, feta, and green onions in a bowl. Mix until everything is well combined.

Step 02

Split the filling between your tortillas. Spread it evenly across each one.

Step 03

Roll each tortilla into a tight log. Wrap them in plastic and stick them in the fridge for at least an hour.

Step 04

Take each roll and cut it into 12 even slices. Put them on your serving plate with the spiral side up.

Notes

  1. Make the rolls up to two days ahead for best results.
  2. Skip the reduced-fat feta - it's too dry for this recipe.
  3. Use colored tortillas for a prettier presentation.

Tools You'll Need

  • Mixing bowl.
  • Plastic wrap.
  • Sharp knife.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Dairy (cream cheese, feta cheese).
  • Wheat (flour tortillas).

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 85
  • Total Fat: 5 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 8 g
  • Protein: 2 g