Christmas Cranberry Pinwheels

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

Savor the festive spirit with these delightful Christmas Cranberry Pinwheels. Perfect for holiday gatherings, these finger foods combine creamy cheese with sweet-tart cranberry sauce, all rolled up in a tortilla for a tasty and easy-to-prepare treat. Your guests will love the vibrant colors and the burst of flavors that capture the essence of the season.

Emily

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-11-25T08:47:08.193Z

Christmas is a time for celebration, family, and wonderful food. These pinwheels are a simple yet impressive addition to your holiday spread, bringing a splash of color and flavor to your table.

A Festive Treat for Everyone

Christmas Cranberry Pinwheels are not just a delightful addition to your holiday spread; they're a versatile treat that appeals to everyone. Whether you're hosting a grand holiday party or a cozy family gathering, these pinwheels are sure to impress. Their vibrant colors and flavorful combination make them an eye-catching and tasty option that complements the festive spirit. The sweet-tart cranberry and creamy cheese filling strikes a perfect balance that guests of all ages will appreciate.

The easy preparation further enhances their appeal. With just a few simple steps and minimal cooking time, you can create these delicious bites in no time. They are perfect for those last-minute gatherings or when you need to whip up something special without overwhelming yourself in the kitchen. Moreover, they can be prepared ahead of time, allowing flavors to meld beautifully until you're ready to serve.

Perfect for Holiday Celebrations

The holiday season is a time for celebration, and food plays a significant role in creating those memorable moments. These Christmas Cranberry Pinwheels are ideally suited for all occasions, from festive brunches to cocktail parties. Their portable nature makes them an excellent choice for potlucks and holiday picnics as well. Each bite is packed with flavor, making them a favorite finger food for mingling guests.

What's more, these pinwheels fit beautifully on any holiday platter, enhancing the overall presentation. Pair them with your favorite dips or complementary sides to elevate your spread even further. With their delightful burst of flavors, they serve as not just food but as a conversation starter among guests, bringing everyone together during the celebrations.

Customization and Variations

One of the best aspects of these pinwheels is their versatility. While the cranberry and cream cheese combination is traditional and festive, you can easily customize the filling to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. Consider adding sliced turkey or chicken for a heartier option, or swap out the feta cheese for a smoked gouda to amplify flavors. You can also experiment with adding nuts or dried fruits for texture, making each batch unique.

For those with dietary restrictions, gluten-free tortillas and dairy-free cream cheese can be used to adapt this recipe. These variations ensure that everyone can enjoy this festive treat without feeling left out. No matter how you decide to alter the recipe, the spirit of the holidays will shine through in every rolled bite, capturing the joy of togetherness at your table.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Christmas Cranberry Pinwheels:

Ingredients

  • 4 large flour tortillas
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup cranberry sauce
  • 1/2 cup chopped green onions
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1 tsp garlic powder

Once you have everything ready, it’s time to roll!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your pinwheels:

Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cranberry sauce, green onions, feta cheese, and garlic powder. Mix until well combined and creamy.

Assemble the Pinwheels

Spread the cranberry cream cheese mixture evenly over each tortilla. Roll each tortilla tightly, starting from one edge.

Slice and Serve

Slice the rolled tortillas into 1-inch pieces to create pinwheels. Arrange them on a platter and serve.

Your delicious pinwheels are now ready to be enjoyed!

Tips for Perfect Pinwheels

To ensure that your Christmas Cranberry Pinwheels turn out perfectly every time, there are a few tips to keep in mind. First, make sure your cream cheese is adequately softened to blend easily with the other ingredients. This will help you achieve a smooth and creamy filling. It's also beneficial to assemble your pinwheels shortly before serving to retain the freshness of the ingredients.

Additionally, if you find your tortillas are breaking while rolling, consider warming them slightly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before assembling. This minor adjustment makes them more pliable, allowing for a neat roll that holds together wonderfully. Lastly, don't hesitate to taste your filling before spreading it on the tortillas; adjusting sweetness or saltiness can help you craft the perfect flavor profile.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

If you find yourself with leftover Christmas Cranberry Pinwheels, fear not! These pinwheels can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keeping them chilled not only maintains their quality but also makes for a refreshing snack later on. Just remember to slice them into pinwheels right before serving for the best presentation.

When it comes to serving, consider pairing your pinwheels with a variety of dips. A simple yogurt-based dip or a zesty salsa can add an exciting twist. Arranging them alongside an assortment of seasonal fruits and nuts creates a stunning visual display that enhances the holiday ambiance. Be creative with your platter design to impress your guests with an inviting and festive setup.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them a day in advance and keep them covered in the refrigerator.

→ Can I use whole wheat tortillas?

Absolutely! Whole wheat tortillas add a nutty flavor and are a healthier option.

Christmas Cranberry Pinwheels

Savor the festive spirit with these delightful Christmas Cranberry Pinwheels. Perfect for holiday gatherings, these finger foods combine creamy cheese with sweet-tart cranberry sauce, all rolled up in a tortilla for a tasty and easy-to-prepare treat. Your guests will love the vibrant colors and the burst of flavors that capture the essence of the season.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration0 minutes
Overall Time15 minutes

Created by: Emily

Recipe Type: Seasonal & Festive

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 12 pinwheels

What You'll Need

Ingredients

  1. 4 large flour tortillas
  2. 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  3. 1 cup cranberry sauce
  4. 1/2 cup chopped green onions
  5. 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  6. 1 tsp garlic powder

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cranberry sauce, green onions, feta cheese, and garlic powder. Mix until well combined and creamy.

Step 02

Spread the cranberry cream cheese mixture evenly over each tortilla. Roll each tortilla tightly, starting from one edge.

Step 03

Slice the rolled tortillas into 1-inch pieces to create pinwheels. Arrange them on a platter and serve.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 120
  • Fat: 8g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Protein: 3g