Print

Best Easy Cranberry Feta Pinwheels Appetizer Recipe

cranberry feta pinwheels - featured image
Print Recipe

These Cozy Cranberry Feta Pinwheels are the perfect quick and easy appetizer, combining tangy homemade cranberry sauce, creamy feta, and rich cream cheese rolled in a flour tortilla. Ideal for holiday parties, game day snacking, or a cozy night in, they come together in under 20 minutes of active time and are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries (about 4 ounces)
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup (or honey)
  • 1 tablespoon orange juice, freshly squeezed
  • 1 teaspoon orange zest
  • 1/8 teaspoon cinnamon
  • Pinch of salt
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or chives, finely chopped (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 large flour tortillas (10-inch size works best)
  • Optional: 1/4 cup toasted chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch

Instructions

  1. Make the cranberry sauce: In a small saucepan, combine the fresh cranberries, maple syrup, orange juice, orange zest, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat to low. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries have burst and the mixture has thickened to a jam-like consistency. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
  2. Prepare the cream cheese mixture: In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer (or wooden spoon) until smooth and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Add the crumbled feta, chopped herbs (if using), and black pepper. Mix until just combined.
  3. Assemble the pinwheels: Lay a flour tortilla flat on a clean work surface. Spread about 3 tablespoons of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the entire surface of the tortilla, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges. Then, spoon about 2 tablespoons of the cooled cranberry sauce over the cream cheese layer and spread it gently. If using nuts, sprinkle them over the cranberry layer now.
  4. Roll it up tight: Starting at one edge, roll the tortilla tightly but gently into a log. Place the rolled tortilla seam-side down on a piece of parchment paper or plastic wrap. Wrap it tightly and twist the ends to secure. Repeat with remaining tortillas.
  5. Chill: Place the wrapped rolls in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or up to 24 hours. For a quicker option, freeze for 20 minutes.
  6. Slice and serve: When ready to serve, unwrap the rolls and place them on a cutting board. Using a sharp serrated knife, trim off the ragged ends, then slice each roll into 1-inch rounds. Wipe the knife clean between cuts for the cleanest slices. Arrange on a serving platter and garnish as desired.

Notes

Let the cranberry sauce cool completely before spreading to avoid melting the cream cheese. Use room temperature cream cheese for easy spreading. Chilling is non-negotiable for clean slices. For best results, make ahead and chill overnight. Use a serrated knife and wipe clean between cuts for perfect spirals.

Nutrition

Keywords: cranberry feta pinwheels, easy appetizer, holiday appetizer, cream cheese pinwheels, cranberry appetizer, party food, vegetarian appetizer

Find it online: https://dinadishes.com/best-easy-cranberry-feta-pinwheels-appetizer-recipe/