Festive Cranberry Feta Pinwheels

This festive cranberry feta pinwheel recipe transforms simple ingredients into an elegant holiday appetizer. The vibrant red cranberries against the creamy white filling creates a beautiful Christmas-colored spiral that disappears quickly at gatherings. I created these for a holiday potluck years ago and they've become my signature contribution ever since.

These pinwheels have become my holiday entertaining secret weapon. Last Christmas my sister-in-law called me frantically needing a last-minute appetizer for an unexpected guest. I talked her through this recipe over the phone and she texted me later that evening that they were the hit of her party.

Ingredients

• Dried sweetened cranberries bring holiday color and sweet-tart flavor that balances the savory elements perfectly. Look for plump moist cranberries rather than hard dried ones.
• Cream cheese creates the creamy spreadable base that holds everything together. Always use full-fat for the richest result and ensure it's fully softened.
• Feta cheese provides that distinctive salty tanginess that makes these pinwheels special. Greek or Bulgarian varieties with some brine offer the best flavor.
• Green onions add a mild aromatic bite and festive green color. Choose fresh firm stalks without any yellowing or wilting.
• Large flour tortillas serve as the perfect canvas. The spinach variety adds extra visual appeal with its green color complementing the red cranberries.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the filling

Combine the dried cranberries cream cheese feta and green onions in a medium bowl. Use a rubber spatula to fold everything together gently but thoroughly until the mixture has an even consistency. Make sure the cream cheese is completely room temperature or you'll struggle with lumps in your mixture. The filling should be spreadable but thick enough to hold its shape.

Assemble the rolls

Divide the filling equally between the two tortillas. Spread it evenly across each tortilla leaving about a quarter-inch border around the edges to prevent overflow when rolling. Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to create a smooth even layer all the way to the edges for picture-perfect spirals.

Roll and chill

Starting from one edge roll each tortilla into a tight cylinder applying gentle pressure as you go. Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap twisting the ends to secure. Refrigerate for at least one hour or up to two days. The chilling time is crucial as it allows the filling to firm up and the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Slice and serve

Remove the rolls from the refrigerator and unwrap. Using a sharp serrated knife cut each roll into 12 even slices about half an inch thick. For the cleanest cuts wipe your knife between slices. Arrange the pinwheels cut side up on a serving platter in concentric circles or rows for maximum visual impact.

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The feta cheese is truly what makes these pinwheels special. I discovered this recipe years ago at a neighborhood cookie exchange where everyone was expected to bring cookies but I wanted something savory to balance all the sweetness. These pinwheels disappeared faster than any of the cookies and I've been making them ever since.

Storage Tips

These pinwheels maintain their best texture and flavor when prepared no more than 48 hours in advance. Store the unsliced rolls tightly wrapped in plastic in the refrigerator. For the freshest presentation slice just before serving. If you need to slice ahead of time arrange the pinwheels in a single layer on a parchment-lined container cover loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 6 hours.

Easy Variations

Transform this recipe with simple substitutions to create new flavor profiles. Replace the cranberries with chopped sun-dried tomatoes and add fresh basil for a Mediterranean twist. For a southwestern version use roasted red peppers and pepper jack cheese instead of feta. During other seasons swap the cranberries for diced strawberries in spring or diced apples with cinnamon in fall.

Serving Suggestions

These colorful pinwheels stand beautifully on their own but can be elevated with thoughtful presentation. Arrange them on a bed of fresh arugula or spinach leaves for a festive touch. Serve alongside a cranberry chutney for dipping or pair with champagne or sparkling cider for holiday celebrations. For a complete appetizer spread include these pinwheels with a cheese board mixed nuts and fresh fruit.

Make It Ahead

These pinwheels actually improve with time as the flavors meld together in the refrigerator. Prepare the rolls up to two days before your event keeping them tightly wrapped in plastic. For optimal results slice them no more than a few hours before serving. If preparing for a potluck transport the unsliced rolls in a cooler and cut them at your destination to maintain their freshest appearance.

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Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?

Yes! These pinwheels actually benefit from being made ahead. You can prepare the rolls up to two days in advance and keep them tightly wrapped in the refrigerator. Just slice them right before serving for the freshest presentation.

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

Reduced-fat feta tends to be drier and more crumbly than regular feta, which can make the filling less cohesive and harder to spread. The regular feta provides better texture and flavor for these pinwheels.

→ What type of tortillas work best for pinwheels?

Large flour tortillas (burrito size) work best because they give you more surface area for the filling. Wheat or spinach-flavored tortillas add nice color contrast with the red cranberries, making them more festive for holiday gatherings.

→ How do I get clean slices when cutting the pinwheels?

Make sure the rolls are thoroughly chilled (at least one hour, preferably longer) before slicing. Use a very sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts. A gentle sawing motion rather than pressing down helps maintain the round shape.

→ Can I add other ingredients to the filling?

Absolutely! Consider adding finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme, a little orange zest for brightness, or even some finely chopped nuts for texture. Just avoid watery ingredients that might make the filling too soft.

→ How long can these pinwheels sit out at a party?

Due to the cream cheese filling, these pinwheels shouldn't sit at room temperature for more than 2 hours for food safety. For longer parties, consider putting out smaller batches and refreshing them throughout the event.