Cranberry Feta Pinwheels with Cream Cheese are my secret weapon for last minute gatherings, potlucks, and nights when I want to feel festive without heating up the whole kitchen. If you’ve ever stood in front of the fridge wondering what you can make in 15 minutes that still looks party ready, this is it. They’re tangy, slightly sweet, and fabulously creamy. The red and green flecks look like instant holiday cheer on a platter. And the best part is you can make them ahead and slice just before serving.
The Story Behind This Recipe
Hey, I’m Alexandraa! This Cranberry Feta Pinwheels with Cream Cheese was built for busy nights: simple steps, reliable results, and flavor that makes people ask for seconds. Cranberry Feta Pinwheels with Cream Cheese are my secret weapon for last minute gatherings, potlucks, and nights when I want to feel festive without heating up…
Cranberry Feta Pinwheels
I love appetizers that don’t ask for a lot of fuss but still deliver a punch of flavor. These pinwheels have that balance I crave: creamy filling, salty feta, sweet cranberries, fresh herbs, and a little crunch. The texture is great, the colors pop, and people always ask for the recipe. They’re one of those dishes you can confidently hand to your aunt who “doesn’t eat anything weird” and also your friend who brings gourmet cheese to every gathering.
Here’s my favorite method for making Cranberry Feta Pinwheels with Cream Cheese, plus a few tips to make them your own. If you’ve got tortillas, cream cheese, and dried cranberries, you’re already close.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 large flour tortillas, room temperature
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup dried cranberries, roughly chopped
- 3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/3 cup chopped green onion or chives
- 1/3 cup finely chopped baby spinach or parsley
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest, plus a squeeze of lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Step by Step Directions
- In a bowl, mix the cream cheese with honey, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt and pepper until smooth.
- Fold in cranberries, feta, green onion, and chopped greens. Taste and adjust seasoning. You’ll want a balance of sweet, salty, and fresh.
- Lay out one tortilla. Spread a thin, even layer of filling all the way to the edges. Don’t mound it too high or it will squeeze out.
- Roll the tortilla tightly from one edge to the other. Think compact, not squished.
- Wrap each roll in plastic and chill at least 30 minutes. This helps them slice cleanly.
- Use a sharp serrated knife to cut 1 inch pinwheels. Wipe the knife between cuts for neat edges.
Make Ahead, Storage, and Shortcuts
These keep well in the fridge for up to 24 hours before slicing, so they’re perfect for planning ahead. If you’ve got a busy day, roll them in the morning and slice when guests arrive. For a shortcut, use whipped cream cheese so it blends faster. If you’re serving outside, freeze the rolls for 15 minutes before slicing to help them hold their shape. For parties, I always make a double batch because Cranberry Feta Pinwheels with Cream Cheese tend to vanish fast.
If you love roll ups, you might also like these simple appetizer tortilla pinwheels for a savory variety on the same theme. They’re easy to customize and great for feeding a crowd.
“I brought these pinwheels to our neighborhood game night and had four people ask for the recipe. The lemon zest makes them taste super bright. Definitely adding to my holiday rotation.”
Pro Tip: Lightly warming the tortillas in a dry pan for 10 to 15 seconds makes them more flexible and less likely to crack. Also, pat the cranberries dry if they’re very sticky so the mixture spreads evenly.
More Easy Appetizer Recipes
When I host, I love a spread that mixes creamy, crunchy, and fresh. If the oven is full of mains, cold appetizers like these pinwheels save the day. Mix in one warm item so the table feels cozy, then fill the rest with no bake bites and a simple veggie plate. Keep flavors varied but not overwhelming. Simple is better when people are snacking and chatting.
- For something with a little kick and a festive vibe, try this cream cheese jalapeno cranberry dip. It’s creamy, spicy, and tangy in the best way.
- Craving a pinwheel but with a savory twist? These creamy spinach stuffed flank steak pinwheels are a hearty, crowd pleasing option.
Use this same pinwheel approach for other flavor combos. Swap cranberries for chopped dried apricots or figs. Try goat cheese instead of feta for an extra tang. Or add a sprinkle of chopped pistachios for a little crunch. This is a flexible blueprint you can adapt to your pantry and your mood.
Reader Interactions
Every time I share Cranberry Feta Pinwheels with Cream Cheese, I get a new tip from one of you. Someone suggested adding a pinch of cinnamon to the filling and I was shocked how good it was. Another reader dabs a little Dijon on the tortilla before spreading the filling for a savory pop. Keep those ideas coming. I test them, and when they work, they make their way into my rotation.
If you made these for your office party, tell me how many disappeared in the first ten minutes. If you tweaked the recipe, share your combo and what you’d change next time. Your feedback helps other readers get great results. And it’s always fun to see your platters and how you plate them at home.
Additional Appetizer Suggestions
For a balanced spread, plan on 3 to 5 bites per person per hour for the first hour, then adjust. If you’re serving these pinwheels with other creamy dips, add something bright like cucumber slices or grape tomatoes to reset the palate. I also like a simple bowl of salted almonds or pistachios for contrast.
Add a simple grazing board with cheddar, brie, a soft blue, and a fruit jam. Keep crackers sturdy so they don’t crumble. If your group loves seafood, a chilled shrimp ring with lemon wedges always feels fancy with almost no effort. And if dessert is on the menu, go for something single serve so people can nibble without committing to a big slice.
For a festive baked treat to round out the table, consider the bright flavors in these cranberry orange sour cream scones. They pair beautifully with coffee after savory snacks and pinwheels.
Holiday Recipe Recommendations
When I’m building a holiday menu, I like to think in colors and textures. Cranberry Feta Pinwheels with Cream Cheese bring that pop of red, creamy white filling, and a little green for contrast. Add one hot dish, one crunchy fresh option, and something sweet. If your group skews savory, lean into herbs like rosemary and thyme in your appetizers for a cozy aroma.
For a warm and comforting main or side, a baked pasta dish is always a hit. If that sounds good, check out this simple baked cream cheese spaghetti for an easy and hearty crowd pleaser. It bridges the gap between appetizers and main course without a lot of prep.
Set your table with a mix of small bowls and platters so people can reach everything without stretching across the whole spread. Keep napkins and toothpicks nearby for neat snacking. Garnish platters with extra chopped herbs or a few whole cranberries to make everything look fresh and inviting. Small touches make a big difference when you’re serving simple recipes.
Common Questions
Can I make these gluten free?
Yes. Use gluten free tortillas and double check that your cranberries and cheese are labeled gluten free. The filling itself is naturally gluten free.
How far ahead can I make pinwheels?
Roll up to 24 hours in advance and slice right before serving. If the edges dry out, cover the platter with a damp paper towel until guests arrive.
What’s the best way to slice clean rounds?
Chill the rolls 30 minutes, then use a sharp serrated knife and wipe the blade between cuts. Don’t press too hard. A gentle sawing motion works best.
Can I swap the feta?
Absolutely. Goat cheese is great for extra tang. Mild cheddar or Monterey Jack will be more mellow. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
How do I add a bit of heat?
Stir in a touch of finely minced jalapeno or red pepper flakes. Start small. You can always add more after tasting.
Ready to Roll and Serve
There’s a reason these Cranberry Feta Pinwheels with Cream Cheese make repeat appearances at my gatherings. They’re bright, creamy, and easy to love, and they take the stress out of appetizer hour. If you’re hunting for more inspiration, I also keep a spicy yet festive dip on hand like this creamy jalapeno cranberry dip for people who want a kick. For extra reading and fun variations, I like how these guides break it down too, like Cranberry Feta Pinwheels and the twist from Cranberry and Feta Pinwheels | The Girl Who Ate Everything. Grab your tortillas, roll a batch, and watch them disappear.
Cranberry Feta Pinwheels
Ingredients
Method
- In a bowl, mix the cream cheese with honey, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt and pepper until smooth.
- Fold in cranberries, feta, green onion, and chopped greens. Taste and adjust seasoning to achieve a balance of sweet, salty, and fresh.
- Lay out one tortilla and spread a thin, even layer of filling all the way to the edges.
- Roll the tortilla tightly from one edge to the other; ensure it is compact but not squished.
- Wrap each roll in plastic and chill for at least 30 minutes to help them slice cleanly.
- Use a sharp serrated knife to cut 1-inch pinwheels, wiping the knife between cuts for neat edges.
