Pin it
This festive cranberry feta pinwheel recipe transforms ordinary ingredients into an impressive appetizer that's perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or anytime you need a quick yet elegant dish. The combination of tangy feta, sweet cranberries, and creamy cheese creates a flavor explosion that looks as good as it tastes.
I first created these pinwheels for a Christmas party where I needed something festive but was short on time. They were such a hit that they've become my signature dish for every holiday gathering since.
Ingredients
- Cream cheese: Forms the creamy base that holds everything together. Allow it to fully soften for easiest spreading.
- Feta cheese: Adds a tangy saltiness that balances the sweetness. Use a good quality feta for the best flavor profile.
- Dried cranberries: Provide sweet tartness and festive color. Look for plump, soft cranberries without added sugar if possible.
- Green onions: Offer a mild onion flavor that doesn't overpower. Choose fresh ones with bright green tops.
- Garlic powder: Infuses subtle aromatic flavor throughout. Fresh garlic would be too overpowering here.
- Black pepper: Adds a hint of spice that complements all the other flavors. Freshly ground is always best.
- Flour tortillas: Serve as the perfect wrapper. Choose large, fresh tortillas for easier rolling.
- Fresh parsley: Optional adds a pop of color and freshness to the finished presentation.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the filling:
- Combine softened cream cheese and feta in a medium bowl. Ensure your cream cheese is truly room temperature about 1 hour on the counter to achieve a smooth, lump free mixture. Add the cranberries, green onions, garlic powder and black pepper, folding gently until evenly distributed. The filling should be spreadable but thick enough to hold its shape.
- Assemble the pinwheels:
- Lay a tortilla flat on your work surface. Spread approximately 1/4 of the filling over the tortilla using an offset spatula or the back of a spoon, leaving about 1/2 inch border around the edges. The layer should be even but not too thick around 1/4 inch to prevent squeezing out when rolled.
- Roll with precision:
- Start from one edge and roll the tortilla tightly like a carpet, applying gentle but firm pressure as you go. The goal is a compact roll without air pockets or gaps. If filling starts to squeeze out the sides, you've used too much simply wipe away excess before continuing.
- Chill for success:
- Wrap each rolled tortilla tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, though 1 hour is better. This crucial step firms up the filling, making it much easier to slice cleanly without squishing or sliding.
Pin it
My secret ingredient is actually the proper ratio of cream cheese to feta. Too much feta makes these pinwheels overly salty, while too little makes them bland. The 8oz to 1 cup ratio creates the perfect balance that keeps people coming back for more.
Perfect Pairings
These pinwheels complement almost any appetizer spread but work particularly well alongside some contrasting flavors and textures. Try pairing them with a spicy shrimp cocktail, crunchy vegetable platter with hummus, or savory meatballs for a complete appetizer spread that offers something for everyone.
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They'll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, though the tortillas may soften slightly over time. For best results, slice only what you plan to serve immediately and keep remaining rolls whole until needed.
Variations To Try
While this classic combination is perfect, you can easily customize these pinwheels to suit different occasions or tastes. For a Mediterranean twist, substitute sun dried tomatoes and olives for the cranberries. For a spicier version, add chopped jalapeños and substitute pepper jack for some of the feta. During summer months, try chopped fresh basil and diced bell peppers for a garden fresh version.
Pin it
These festive pinwheels are an effortless way to impress your guests and brighten up any spread. Give them a try & they might just become your favorite go-to recipe!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How far in advance can I make these pinwheels?
You can make these pinwheels up to 24 hours in advance. Prepare and roll the tortillas, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate. For best results, slice them into pinwheels shortly before serving.
- → Can I use different cheese instead of feta?
Absolutely! While feta provides a distinctive tangy flavor, you can substitute with goat cheese for a similar tang or use shredded white cheddar for a milder option. Blue cheese also works well for a more robust flavor profile.
- → What can I use instead of dried cranberries?
Dried cherries, chopped dried apricots, or raisins make excellent substitutes. For a less sweet version, try sun-dried tomatoes or chopped roasted red peppers for a different flavor dimension.
- → Why are my pinwheels falling apart when I cut them?
This typically happens when the filling is too soft or the rolls weren't chilled long enough. Make sure to refrigerate the rolled tortillas for at least 30 minutes before slicing. Using a very sharp knife and a gentle sawing motion rather than pressing down helps maintain their shape.
- → Are these pinwheels served hot or cold?
These pinwheels are designed to be served cold or at room temperature, making them perfect for buffets and gatherings. They shouldn't be heated after assembly as this would cause the cream cheese filling to melt.
- → What can I serve with cranberry feta pinwheels?
These pinwheels pair wonderfully with other finger foods like hummus and vegetables, cheese boards, olives, and nuts. For beverages, they complement both white wine and sparkling drinks beautifully, making them ideal for cocktail parties.