Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels

by
Print Recipe

Introduction

Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels are the ideal appetizer for your Super Bowl celebration. These bite-sized, flavorful pinwheels feature a creamy blend of cream cheese, tangy cranberries, and a hint of sweetness, all wrapped in a soft tortilla. They’re simple to prepare, yet offer a satisfying burst of flavors with every bite. Perfect for serving a crowd, these pinwheels are easy to make ahead of time, allowing you to focus on enjoying the game.

I remember the first time I made these for a Super Bowl party with friends. The colorful pinwheels were the first to disappear, and everyone loved how the creaminess of the cheese paired with the tartness of the cranberries. These pinwheels are not only delicious but also versatile—you can adjust the level of sweetness to your liking or even add a little crunch with chopped nuts or fresh herbs.

These appetizers are a breeze to prepare with just a few basic ingredients. Simply spread the cream cheese mixture onto tortillas, roll them up, and slice them into bite-sized pieces. Whether you’re hosting a game-day party or bringing a dish to share, these Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels are sure to be a hit!

Perfect for:

  • Super Bowl parties
  • Game-day appetizers
  • Casual gatherings
  • Holiday get-togethers
  • Potlucks

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels will become your go-to appetizer for game day:

  • Sweet and Savory Flavor: The combination of tangy cranberries and creamy cheese creates a delicious contrast of flavors.
  • Easy to Prepare: These pinwheels are simple to assemble, and they can be made in advance, saving you time on game day.
  • No Baking Required: Just roll, chill, and slice—no oven needed!
  • Crowd-Pleasing: The bite-sized portions make these perfect for sharing and easy for guests to grab while enjoying the game.
  • Customizable: You can add or omit ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs, such as using gluten-free tortillas or non-dairy cream cheese.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 2 hours (including chilling time)
  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Chilling Time: 1 hour
  • Servings: 12 servings (about 24 pinwheels)
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 150-180 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 3g, Carbs: 15g, Fat: 10g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels:

For the Pinwheels:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup whole cranberry sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh spinach (optional, for a savory element)
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra flavor)
  • 4 large flour tortillas (whole wheat or gluten-free tortillas work too)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnish (Optional):

  • Chopped pecans or walnuts
  • Fresh parsley or chives for garnish

Ingredient Highlights

  • Cranberry Sauce: Use a whole cranberry sauce for the perfect balance of tart and sweet flavor.
  • Cream Cheese: Provides the rich and creamy base for the pinwheels.
  • Honey or Maple Syrup: Adds just a touch of sweetness to balance the tang of the cranberries.
  • Spinach: Fresh spinach adds color and a savory note that complements the sweet cranberries.
  • Tortillas: Soft flour tortillas are ideal for wrapping the pinwheels, but other types work too, like spinach or sun-dried tomato tortillas.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels:

Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling:

  1. Mix the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cranberry sauce, honey (or maple syrup), lemon juice, and Dijon mustard (if using). Mix until smooth and well combined.
  2. Add Spinach (Optional): Stir in the chopped spinach for extra flavor and color. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Assemble the Pinwheels:

  1. Spread the Cream Cheese Mixture: Lay out the tortillas on a flat surface. Spread a generous layer of the cranberry cream cheese mixture over each tortilla, leaving about ½ inch from the edges.
  2. Roll the Tortillas: Starting at one edge, carefully roll the tortilla into a tight cylinder. Make sure the seam is tucked underneath to keep it secure.
  3. Chill the Pinwheels: Wrap each rolled tortilla in plastic wrap and place it in the fridge for at least 1 hour. Chilling helps the filling firm up and makes slicing easier.

Slice and Serve:

  1. Slice into Pinwheels: After chilling, unwrap the tortillas and use a sharp knife to slice each roll into 1-inch pinwheels.
  2. Garnish and Serve: Optionally, garnish with chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts) or fresh herbs like parsley or chives for extra flavor and a touch of elegance. Serve chilled.

How to Serve

  • On a Platter: Arrange the pinwheels on a serving platter, making them easy to grab and enjoy.
  • With a Dip: Pair with a tangy dipping sauce, like a balsamic glaze or a honey mustard dip.
  • For a Themed Touch: Garnish with holiday-themed decor like fresh herbs or seasonal fruits.
  • With Drinks: Serve alongside non-alcoholic beverages like sparkling water, iced tea, or a fresh fruit punch.

Additional Tips

  • Make-Ahead Option: These pinwheels are perfect for preparing the night before. Just wrap and chill, then slice before serving.
  • Customize the Filling: Feel free to add other ingredients like diced apples, shredded carrots, or even a little cream cheese flavored with herbs or garlic.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free tortillas for a completely gluten-free dish.
  • Vegan Option: Use vegan cream cheese and maple syrup for a dairy-free version.

Recipe Variations

  1. Cranberry Almond Cream Cheese Pinwheels
  2. Cranberry and Feta Cheese Pinwheels
  3. Apple and Cranberry Pinwheels
  4. Spinach and Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels
  5. Cranberry and Walnuts Pinwheels
  6. Vegan Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels
  7. Spicy Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels
  8. Cranberry and Brie Pinwheels
  9. Cranberry Pine Nut Pinwheels
  10. Cranberry and Goat Cheese Pinwheels

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing: You can freeze the pinwheels before slicing. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge and slice before serving.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Special Equipment

  • Electric mixer (if needed for the filling)
  • Sharp knife for slicing
  • Plastic wrap for chilling
  • Serving platter

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use fresh cranberries instead of cranberry sauce? Yes, but you may need to cook the cranberries with sugar to create a sauce-like consistency.
  2. Can I make these the day before? Yes, these pinwheels are great for making ahead.
  3. Can I use flavored cream cheese? Yes, flavored cream cheese (such as honey or chive) will add extra flavor.
  4. Can I make these without spinach? Yes, feel free to omit the spinach for a more traditional sweet flavor.
  5. How do I keep these from getting soggy? Make sure to chill them properly and serve within a few hours of slicing for the best texture.

Conclusion

Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels are the ultimate appetizer for your Super Bowl spread. These creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet pinwheels are a perfect balance of flavors and textures, all wrapped up in a fun and easy-to-eat bite. The festive combination of creamy cream cheese and tart cranberries makes each pinwheel a delightful treat.

They’re simple to make ahead of time, giving you more time to enjoy the game and less time in the kitchen. Whether for game day or any occasion, these pinwheels are sure to be a hit and add a pop of color and flavor to your table!

I’d love to see how your Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Enjoy!

Leave a Comment