A festive, flavorful appetizer combining creamy cheese, sweet and tangy cranberries, and savory feta in a colorful tortilla wrap. These crowd-pleasing pinwheels are perfect for Christmas parties, Thanksgiving gatherings, or any special occasion!
Ingredients:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened (leave at room temperature for 30-60 minutes for easier mixing)
- 1 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped (look for soft, plump cranberries for the best texture)
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese (use a high-quality feta for extra creaminess and flavor)
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped (use both the white and green parts for maximum flavor)
- 4 large flour tortillas, or substitute with spinach or tomato tortillas for added holiday colors
- Optional garnishes: Extra chopped cranberries, parsley, or a sprinkle of green onions
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
- Place the softened cream cheese in a large mixing bowl. Using a spatula or hand mixer, beat until smooth and creamy.
- Add the finely chopped dried cranberries, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped green onions.
- Mix all the ingredients thoroughly until evenly combined. The mixture should be thick and spreadable, with the cranberries and feta evenly distributed.
Step 2: Assemble the Pinwheels
- Lay one tortilla flat on a clean surface. Make sure the tortilla is smooth and free of folds for easier spreading.
- Scoop approximately 1/4 of the cream cheese mixture onto the tortilla.
- Using an offset spatula or the back of a spoon, spread the filling into a thin, even layer, covering the entire surface of the tortilla. Leave about 1/2 inch of space around the edges to prevent spillage when rolling.
- Starting from one edge, roll the tortilla tightly into a log shape. Ensure you roll snugly to keep the filling intact.
- Repeat this process for the remaining tortillas and filling.
Step 3: Chill the Rolls
- Wrap each rolled tortilla tightly in plastic wrap. This step helps the rolls hold their shape and makes slicing easier.
- Place the wrapped rolls in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours to firm up. Chilling also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 4: Slice the Pinwheels
- Remove the rolls from the refrigerator and carefully unwrap the plastic.
- Using a sharp knife, trim off the uneven ends (optional but recommended for a neater presentation).
- Slice each roll into 1-inch thick pinwheels. Aim for consistent slices to create visually appealing pieces.
Step 5: Arrange and Garnish
- Arrange the pinwheels on a serving platter in a decorative pattern, such as a circular wreath or layered rows.
- Garnish with extra dried cranberries, chopped green onions, or fresh parsley for a festive touch.
Tips for Success:
- Soften the Cream Cheese: If you forget to soften the cream cheese, microwave it for 10-15 seconds, but avoid overheating it.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: High-quality feta cheese and fresh green onions elevate the flavor.
- Roll Tightly: A firm roll ensures that the pinwheels hold their shape and the filling doesn’t spill out.
- Make Ahead: These pinwheels can be made up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making them a stress-free party appetizer.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve these pinwheels as part of a festive appetizer spread with crackers, veggies, and dips.
- Pair them with sparkling beverages or holiday cocktails for a crowd-pleasing combination.
- Add variety by using different tortilla flavors for a colorful presentation.
Yield: About 40 pinwheels (depending on the size of the tortillas and thickness of slices)
Enjoy these Holiday Cranberry Feta Pinwheels—a delicious and visually stunning appetizer that will be the highlight of your table!