Introduction
These Cranberry Feta Pinwheels with Cream Cheese are the ultimate holiday appetizer — creamy, tangy, and perfectly festive! Each tortilla wrap is filled with smooth cream cheese, salty feta, dried cranberries, and green onions, rolled tightly, chilled, and sliced into bite-sized spirals. They’re quick to prepare, absolutely delicious, and add a cheerful pop of red and white to any holiday platter. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a cozy party snack, these pinwheels are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 10-minute prep — no cooking required!
- Creamy, sweet, and tangy flavor combination everyone loves
- Beautiful red-and-white presentation for holidays or potlucks
- Easy to make ahead and slice just before serving
- Great finger food for parties, lunches, or snacks
- Customizable with nuts, herbs, or different cheeses
Ingredients Needed
For the Pinwheels
- 4 large flour tortillas (10-inch)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- ¾ cup dried cranberries (Craisins)
- ¼ cup chopped green onions
- ¼ cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- 1 tbsp honey (optional, for sweetness)
- Pinch of salt and black pepper
For Garnish (Optional)
- Fresh parsley or rosemary sprigs
- Extra dried cranberries for presentation
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix the Filling – In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, feta, cranberries, green onions, and nuts. Add honey, salt, and pepper; stir until fully blended.
- Spread the Mixture – Lay tortillas flat and spread a generous layer of the filling evenly across each one, leaving about ½ inch of border.
- Roll Tightly – Starting from one edge, roll each tortilla tightly into a log.
- Chill – Wrap each roll in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
- Slice & Serve – Unwrap and slice each roll into 1-inch rounds. Arrange on a platter and garnish with parsley and extra cranberries.
Tips for Success
- Use room temperature cream cheese so it spreads easily.
- Chill well before slicing to prevent flattening.
- A sharp knife makes clean, even slices.
- Add honey for a sweet balance or skip for more tang.
- Try flavored tortillas (spinach or sun-dried tomato) for color contrast.
- Make ahead up to 24 hours — perfect for parties!
Variations & Substitutions
- Nut-Free: Skip nuts or replace with sunflower seeds.
- Savory Twist: Add chopped roasted red peppers or a sprinkle of garlic powder.
- Cheese Options: Swap feta for goat cheese or creamier blue cheese crumbles.
- Low-Carb: Use low-carb tortillas or wraps.
- Festive Version: Add diced jalapeños for a sweet-spicy combo.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as an appetizer platter for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or brunch.
- Pack in lunchboxes for an easy, protein-packed snack.
- Pair with soup or salad for a light lunch.
- Use as a wrap filling instead of slicing for a quick on-the-go meal.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a gourmet touch.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Not recommended — the texture of cream cheese and feta changes.
- Make Ahead: Prep the rolls, wrap tightly, and slice before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Make the rolls a day before and refrigerate tightly wrapped. Slice right before serving.
Can I use goat cheese instead of feta?
Absolutely — it’s deliciously creamy and pairs well with cranberries.
Can I use dried cherries instead of cranberries?
Yes, cherries, apricots, or raisins all work well for variety.
What tortillas work best?
Soft, fresh flour tortillas hold their shape best and slice cleanly.
Can I add spinach or greens?
Yes, a handful of baby spinach adds color and freshness.
Equipment
- mixing bowl For blending cream cheese and filling ingredients
- rubber spatula For spreading filling evenly
- Sharp knife To slice chilled rolls cleanly
- Plastic wrap For chilling and holding the roll shape
Ingredients
- 4 large flour tortillas (10-inch)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 3/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- 1 tbsp honey (optional)
- 1 pinch salt and pepper
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, feta, cranberries, green onions, nuts, honey, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Spread the mixture evenly over each tortilla, leaving about 1/2 inch around the edges.
- Roll each tortilla tightly into a log shape.
- Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
- Unwrap and slice each roll into 1-inch pinwheels. Arrange on a platter and serve chilled or at room temperature.
