Cranberry Feta Pinwheels are a fun and tasty snack! These little bites combine creamy feta cheese with tangy cranberries, all wrapped up in soft tortillas. Yum!
These pinwheels are perfect for parties or just a snack on movie night. I love how easy they are to make — just spread, roll, and slice! Plus, they look fancy, so you can impress your friends effortlessly.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortillas: I often use large flour tortillas for a soft texture, but whole wheat is a healthier choice. If you’re looking for gluten-free, corn tortillas also work well, just be gentle when rolling!
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese provides a rich, creamy base. You can substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter version, but the flavor will be a bit tangier.
Feta Cheese: Feta brings a nice salty flavor. If you can’t find feta, goat cheese is a great substitute, providing a similar creaminess.
Dried Cranberries: Chopped dried cranberries add a sweet touch. You can switch them for dried cherries or raisins based on what you have. Just be mindful of sugar content!
Fresh Parsley: This adds freshness. If you don’t have parsley, try cilantro or chives for a different flavor profile.
How Can You Get the Best Roll with Your Pinwheels?
Getting those pinwheels to look neat can be tricky, but here are some tips:
- Start with a generous layer of the cheese mixture, but don’t overfill, as it might spill out.
- Use your hands to tuck the filling as you roll. This keeps everything contained.
- Wrap in plastic wrap tightly after rolling. This not only shapes them but helps them firm up as they chill.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes; this helps with slicing. A chilled log holds together better!
How to Make Cranberry Feta Pinwheels?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pinwheels:
- 4 large flour tortillas (or whole wheat)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- ½ cup dried cranberries, chopped
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- ¼ cup sliced green onions
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fun and tasty recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. In no time, you’ll have a delightful appetizer ready to impress your guests or snack on whenever you like!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, crumbled feta cheese, garlic powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Use a spatula or a fork to mix everything together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
2. Add the Mix-Ins:
Next, fold in the chopped dried cranberries, fresh parsley, and sliced green onions. Stir gently until all the ingredients are evenly mixed. This will give your pinwheels a pop of color and crunch!
3. Spread the Filling:
Take one flour tortilla and spread a generous layer of the cheese mixture over the entire surface. Make sure to get all the way to the edges for the best flavor in every bite.
4. Roll It Up:
Starting from one edge of the tortilla, tightly roll it into a log shape, making sure the filling stays inside. Keep rolling until you reach the other edge. Repeat this with the remaining tortillas and filling.
5. Chill the Pinwheels:
Wrap each rolled tortilla in plastic wrap and place them in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This step helps the flavors meld together and makes the pinwheels easier to slice.
6. Slice and Serve:
After chilling, carefully unwrap the tortillas and use a sharp knife to slice each one into 1-inch wide pinwheels. Arrange the colorful pinwheels on a serving platter. Serve them immediately or keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to enjoy!
Enjoy these delightful Cranberry Feta Pinwheels as a quick appetizer or snack!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cream Cheese in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Low-fat cream cheese can be used as a substitute to make these pinwheels lighter. Just keep in mind that it may be a bit less creamy, so ensure it’s well softened for easy mixing.
What Other Ingredients Can I Add or Substitute?
You can get creative! Try adding diced cucumbers for crunch, or swap out dried cranberries for raisins or chopped nuts. If you prefer a different cheese, goat cheese works beautifully too!
How Do I Store Leftover Pinwheels?
Store any leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll be good for up to 3 days. If they start to dry out, add a small piece of wax paper between layers to help maintain moisture!
Can I Make These Pinwheels Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare and roll the pinwheels a day in advance, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. Just slice and serve when you’re ready for a quick and easy appetizer!
