Cranberry Feta Pinwheels are a perfect appetizer for any occasion, offering a balanced combination of sweet and savory flavors. These bite-sized treats are simple to prepare, and they work wonderfully for holiday parties, family gatherings, or casual snacks. The creamy feta cheese, paired with the tart cranberries, creates a mouthwatering contrast, and the best part is how easy it is to customize them according to personal preferences. Whether you’re a fan of spicy flavors or prefer something on the sweeter side, cranberry feta pinwheels can be adapted to suit everyone’s taste.
Pinwheels are not just delicious; they are also a versatile snack that can be served in various forms. You can make them using different fillings, wraps, and spreads, making them an ideal choice for anyone looking for an appetizer that’s both delicious and easy to make. According to Allrecipes, cranberry feta pinwheels are a crowd favorite during the holiday season, offering both visual appeal and great flavor.
By incorporating the nutritional benefits of cranberries and feta cheese, cranberry feta pinwheels not only satisfy your taste buds but also provide essential nutrients like antioxidants, protein, and fiber. They’re a healthier option compared to many traditional party snacks, yet they don’t compromise on taste.
Why Cranberry Feta Pinwheels Are a Must-Try Appetizer
Cranberry feta pinwheels aren’t just for the holidays. They’re a great snack for almost any event. Their colorful appearance and the combination of creamy, tart, and salty flavors make them the perfect finger food. And with a preparation time of only about 20 minutes, they’re quick and easy to put together. Whether you’re looking for something to bring to a potluck, a backyard BBQ, or a festive holiday gathering, cranberry feta pinwheels are sure to be a hit.
For those who enjoy a little extra kick in their food, spicy cranberry feta pinwheels can be made by adding a pinch of jalapeños or chili flakes to the filling, adding just the right amount of heat to balance the sweetness of the cranberries. If you prefer a more mellow, sweet treat, you can drizzle some honey or maple syrup on top of your pinwheels before serving.
Looking for more ideas on how to incorporate cranberries into your appetizers? Check out this detailed recipe guide from Spend With Pennies.
Nutritional Profile of Cranberry Feta Pinwheels
While cranberry feta pinwheels are primarily known for their delicious flavor, they are also packed with several health benefits. Let’s take a look at some of the key nutritional elements that make these pinwheels a healthy snack choice:
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Cranberries: These berries are not just tangy and delicious; they are also packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber. They are especially high in vitamin C, which helps support the immune system, and are known for their potential benefits to heart health.
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Feta Cheese: Feta is a type of cheese that originates from Greece. It has a crumbly texture and a rich, salty taste. Feta provides a good source of protein, calcium, and phosphorus, all of which are essential for healthy bones and teeth. Compared to other cheeses, feta is relatively low in fat, making it a healthier alternative for cheese lovers.
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Whole Wheat Tortillas: If you choose whole wheat tortillas to make your pinwheels, you will increase the fiber content of the snack. Fiber plays a crucial role in digestion, helping to maintain a healthy gut and manage cholesterol levels.
By combining these ingredients, cranberry feta pinwheels provide a balanced snack option that satisfies both your taste buds and your nutritional needs. They are a great option for those looking to make healthier snack choices while still enjoying a flavorful treat.
Want to see the nutritional breakdown for this dish? You can check out the full details on Eat This Much.
How to Make Cranberry Feta Pinwheels
If you’ve never made cranberry feta pinwheels before, don’t worry! This recipe is easy to follow, and you can have them ready to serve in no time. Below, we’ve outlined a simple yet tasty recipe that you can modify to suit your preferences.
Ingredients:
- 4 large flour tortillas (you can substitute with whole wheat or gluten-free tortillas)
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries, chopped if necessary
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (optional)
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper (optional, for extra seasoning)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Filling: Start by mixing the cream cheese, feta cheese, and dried cranberries together in a bowl. You want to make sure the ingredients are evenly incorporated. If you’re adding any herbs or honey, mix those in as well.
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Spread the Mixture: Lay the tortilla flat on a cutting board or clean surface. Use a spatula or butter knife to spread a thin, even layer of the cranberry-feta mixture over the tortilla, leaving about half an inch at the edges.
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Roll Up the Tortilla: Carefully roll the tortilla, making sure the filling stays inside. Try to roll it as tightly as possible without tearing the tortilla.
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Slice and Serve: Use a sharp knife to slice the rolled tortilla into small, bite-sized pinwheels. You can cut them into as many or as few pieces as you like, but generally, 1-inch slices work well.
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Chill: While optional, you can refrigerate the pinwheels for 15–20 minutes before serving. This helps them set and ensures they don’t unroll when you cut them.
These pinwheels are best served chilled but can be left at room temperature for a short time during your event. They are perfect for a light snack or as a part of a larger appetizer spread.
Variations of Cranberry Feta Pinwheels
Cranberry feta pinwheels are incredibly versatile and can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few variations you can try:
Spicy Cranberry Feta Pinwheels
To give your pinwheels a little heat, add finely chopped jalapeños, chili flakes, or even a splash of hot sauce to the filling. The spicy kick pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the cranberries and the tangy feta.
Sweet and Savory Pinwheels
If you prefer a sweeter version of cranberry feta pinwheels, drizzle a little honey or maple syrup over the top of your pinwheels before serving. This adds a lovely contrast to the saltiness of the feta and creates a balance between sweet and savory flavors.
Vegan Cranberry Feta Pinwheels
For those following a plant-based diet, you can make a vegan version of these pinwheels. Use vegan cream cheese and plant-based feta cheese as substitutes. There are plenty of great alternatives on the market that provide the same creamy texture and tangy flavor as traditional feta.
Adding Nuts for Crunch
For an added texture, try incorporating walnuts or pecans into your pinwheel filling. The crunchy texture of the nuts complements the soft cream cheese and cranberries, making every bite a little more exciting.
Storing and Serving Cranberry Feta Pinwheels
One of the best things about cranberry feta pinwheels is that they can be made ahead of time, making them perfect for meal prepping or last-minute entertaining. Here’s how to store them properly:
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Refrigeration: If you’re preparing the pinwheels in advance, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. They will stay fresh and ready to serve.
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Freezing: You can freeze cranberry feta pinwheels for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or wax paper, then store them in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to serve, thaw them in the refrigerator for a few hours before slicing.
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Room Temperature: If you’re serving the pinwheels at a party, you can leave them out at room temperature for up to 2 hours. However, if you’re not serving them immediately, it’s best to keep them chilled to maintain freshness.
FAQs About Cranberry Feta Pinwheels
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Yes! Fresh cranberries can be used, but they’ll be more tart than dried cranberries. You may want to chop them finely or cook them down into a compote to reduce their tartness.
How can I make the pinwheels spicier?
You can add finely chopped jalapeños, chili flakes, or even a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick. Just be sure to balance the spice with the sweetness of the cranberries.
Can I prepare these pinwheels in advance?
Absolutely! These pinwheels can be made 1-2 days ahead of time. Just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
Are there gluten-free options for the tortillas?
Yes! You can use gluten-free tortillas or even lettuce wraps to make the pinwheels suitable for people with gluten sensitivities.
How do I prevent the pinwheels from unrolling?
Ensure that you roll the tortillas tightly and slice them evenly. If you’re worried about them unrolling, you can secure the ends with a toothpick before slicing.
Print
Cranberry Feta Pinwheels
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 24 pinwheels 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A perfect appetizer combining the tangy sweetness of cranberries with creamy feta cheese, all rolled into a soft tortilla for a delicious and easy-to-make snack.
Ingredients
- 4 large flour tortillas (or whole wheat/gluten-free)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped (optional)
- 1 tsp honey (optional)
- 1 tsp black pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Mix cream cheese, feta cheese, and dried cranberries in a bowl until well combined.
- Spread an even layer of the mixture over each tortilla, leaving a small border.
- Roll the tortillas tightly and slice into 1-inch pinwheels.
- Refrigerate for 15–20 minutes before serving to help them set.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
For a spicier version, add finely chopped jalapeños or chili flakes. For extra crunch, mix in chopped walnuts or pecans.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 pinwheels
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: cranberry feta pinwheels, party appetizer, easy snack, holiday treats