Oh, let me tell you about my absolute favorite appetizer that I whip up for every holiday gathering: Festive Cranberry Feta Pinwheels with Cream Cheese! These delightful little treats are not only a feast for the eyes but also explode with delicious flavor. I first stumbled upon this recipe during a potluck gathering where, ironically, I forgot to bring my famous chocolate chip cookies. Thankfully, my friend came to the rescue with these pinwheels and they quickly became my new obsession.
What I love most about these pinwheels is how easy they are to make, and the best part? You can prepare them a day in advance. As someone who loves to make the most of the holiday hustle and bustle, these beauties save time while still impressing everyone who tries them. Picture a creamy filling studded with crunchy bits of pecans or walnuts, tart dried cranberries, and a pop of freshness from the spinach and green onions. Seriously, these are the life of the party!
What’s in Festive Cranberry Feta Pinwheels with Cream Cheese?
Cream Cheese: This is the creamy base for our filling. I like to use full-fat cream cheese for the richest texture, but if you prefer a lighter version, you can go for low-fat.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a tangy and salty kick that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of dried cranberries. I usually grab the crumbled feta for convenience, but you can buy a block and crumble it yourself for a fresher taste.
Dried Cranberries: These sweet little gems bring a burst of flavor and color to the mix. They’re reminiscent of holidays and are packed with antioxidants to boot!
Fresh Spinach: Finely chopped spinach adds a lovely pop of green and some nutrients to our pinwheels. Plus, it’s a sneaky way to get your greens in!
Green Onions: Chopped green onions give a subtle oniony flavor that balances the richness of the cream cheese and feta.
Flour Tortillas: Big, soft tortillas are the perfect vessel for our filling. I usually go for the large size so I can roll them up nice and tight.
Walnuts or Pecans (optional): You can add some chopped nuts for additional crunch and flavor. I like a mix of both for variety, but it’s completely optional!
Is Festive Cranberry Feta Pinwheels with Cream Cheese Good for You?
These pinwheels have a lot going for them!
Cream Cheese: It provides a good source of calcium and offers a rich, creamy texture. Just be mindful of the portion size if you’re keeping an eye on calories.
Dried Cranberries: They are a great source of antioxidants and are known to help with urinary tract health. They add some sweetness, which can be a healthier alternative to sugary snacks.
Spinach: We all know greens are the superheroes of the vegetable world. Spinach is packed with vitamins A and C, iron, and calcium!
Now, while these pinwheels are certainly a crowd-pleaser, they’re best enjoyed in moderation, especially if you’re watching your dairy or salt intake.
Ingredients List
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries, roughly chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 1/2 cup walnuts or pecans, chopped (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
*Serves:* About 8
How to Make Festive Cranberry Feta Pinwheels with Cream Cheese?
1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and crumbled feta cheese. Mix until smooth and well combined.
2. Stir in the chopped dried cranberries, chopped spinach, and green onions. Add salt and pepper to taste, ensuring everything is evenly distributed.
3. Lay a flour tortilla flat on a clean surface and spread approximately a quarter of the cheese mixture onto the tortilla, covering it evenly up to the edges.
4. If using, sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans on top of the cheese mixture for a delightful crunch.
5. Roll the tortilla tightly from one edge to the other to form a log shape. Repeat this step for the remaining tortillas and cheese mixture.
6. Once all tortillas are rolled, wrap each log in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
7. After chilling, remove the plastic wrap and slice each log into 1-inch thick pinwheels.
8. Arrange the pinwheels on a serving platter and enjoy!
Creative Serving Ideas for Your Pinwheel Party
– To jazz these up, garnish your platter with extra dried cranberries, fresh herbs, or even some pomegranate seeds.
– These pinwheels go wonderfully with some homemade dip or a simple charcuterie board.
– If you want to switch things up, try adding a bit of diced bell pepper or using sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of flavor.
Life can sometimes feel a bit routine, but the joy of trying out new recipes can break that pattern quite wonderfully. I encourage you to give these Festive Cranberry Feta Pinwheels a try—I promise they won’t disappoint! They’re sure to spark joy and maybe even a few compliments at your next gathering. And hey, if you decide to make them, I’d love to hear how they turned out!
