These Cranberry Feta Pinwheels are the perfect no-bake appetizer or snack, packed with a tangy-sweet combo of dried cranberries, creamy cheese, and salty feta all rolled up in a soft tortilla. Whether I’m making them for a holiday platter, potluck, or just a quick bite at home, these pinwheels are always a crowd-pleaser—and they come together in minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s simple, elegant, and delivers bold flavor with very little effort. The creaminess of the cheese balances beautifully with the sweetness of the cranberries and the slight bite of feta. Plus, they look great sliced on a serving tray and are super easy to transport, store, and serve. These are the kind of bites I can make ahead and pull out right when guests arrive.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Flour tortillas (large, burrito-size work best)
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Cream cheese, softened
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Crumbled feta cheese
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Dried cranberries
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Green onions, finely sliced
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Optional: chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch
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Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
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I start by mixing the softened cream cheese with crumbled feta in a bowl until mostly smooth.
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I stir in dried cranberries, green onions, and a small pinch of salt and pepper. If I’m using chopped nuts, I mix those in now too.
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I lay out a tortilla and spread the cheese mixture evenly across the entire surface, making sure to go all the way to the edges.
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I roll the tortilla up tightly into a log and wrap it in plastic wrap.
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I repeat with the remaining mixture and tortillas, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour to help them hold their shape.
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Once chilled, I slice each roll into 1-inch pinwheels and arrange them on a platter for serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 24 pinwheels (from 2 large tortillas), serving 6–8 people as an appetizer. It takes about 15 minutes to prepare plus 1 hour of chill time.
Variations
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I sometimes add finely chopped spinach for a pop of green and extra texture.
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For a slightly sweeter twist, I mix in a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup to the filling.
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Swapping feta for goat cheese gives it a creamier, tangier profile.
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I’ve used whole wheat or spinach tortillas for added flavor and color.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They’re best served cold or at room temperature. I don’t recommend freezing them, as the texture of the cream cheese changes when thawed.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, I often make them the night before. I keep them rolled and wrapped until I’m ready to slice and serve.
What kind of cranberries should I use?
I use sweetened dried cranberries (like Craisins), which add a nice chewy texture and balance the saltiness of the cheese.
How do I keep the pinwheels from falling apart?
I roll the tortillas tightly and chill them before slicing. A sharp knife helps make clean cuts.
Can I use flavored cream cheese?
Absolutely. Herb or chive cream cheese adds even more flavor and pairs great with the cranberries and feta.
Are these good for kids?
Yes, though I sometimes go lighter on the feta or use just cream cheese and cranberries to suit their tastes better.
Conclusion
Cranberry Feta Pinwheels are a sweet, salty, and creamy bite-sized snack I can whip up anytime. They’re easy to make, beautiful on the plate, and bursting with flavor in every bite. Whether I’m making them for the holidays or a casual get-together, these pinwheels are always a winning choice.
Print
Sweet and Savory Cranberry Feta Pinwheels Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 24 pinwheels (6–8 servings)
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Sweet and Savory Cranberry Feta Pinwheels are an easy, no-bake appetizer featuring tangy dried cranberries, creamy cheese, and salty feta rolled into soft tortillas. Perfect for holiday platters, parties, or snacks, these cranberry pinwheels are make-ahead friendly and irresistibly flavorful.
Ingredients
- 2 large flour tortillas (burrito-size)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- 2 green onions, finely sliced
- Optional: ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
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In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese and crumbled feta until mostly smooth.
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Stir in cranberries, green onions, salt, pepper, and chopped nuts if using.
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Lay a tortilla flat and spread half the mixture evenly over the surface, right to the edges.
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Roll the tortilla tightly into a log and wrap in plastic wrap.
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Repeat with the second tortilla and remaining filling.
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Chill for at least 1 hour to firm up.
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Slice each roll into 1-inch pinwheels. Arrange on a serving tray and enjoy.
Notes
- Add chopped spinach for color and nutrition.
- For a touch of sweetness, mix in a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup.
- Substitute goat cheese for a tangier, creamier variation.
- Whole wheat or spinach tortillas offer added flavor and visual appeal.
- Keep chilled until serving for best results.
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