Christmas Cranberry Pinwheels

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

Celebrate the festive season with these delightful Christmas Cranberry Pinwheels! Combining creamy cheese and tart cranberry sauce, these vibrant pinwheels are perfect for holiday gatherings or family get-togethers. Easy to make and visually stunning, they are sure to impress your guests and become a cherished addition to your holiday spread.

Emma

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-11-25T09:55:17.786Z

These Christmas Cranberry Pinwheels bring a festive touch to any holiday spread. They are visually appealing and a fresh alternative to heavier dishes during the celebrations.

Why You’ll Love These Pinwheels

  • Quick and easy to prepare
  • A beautiful addition to your holiday table
  • Delicious balance of creamy and tart flavors

Festive Flavor Combinations

The combination of creamy cheese and tart cranberry sauce in these pinwheels creates a delightful flavor profile that is both refreshing and satisfying. The smoothness of cream cheese melds beautifully with the zesty notes of cranberry, making each bite a taste sensation. Not only are they delicious, but they also provide a nutritious option compared to many other holiday treats. Including fruits and nuts enhances the dish further, making it a wellness choice amidst the rich indulgences of the season.

What sets Christmas Cranberry Pinwheels apart is their versatility. These bites can be enjoyed as an appetizer, a party snack, or even as a light lunch. Feel free to experiment with different toppings, such as diced apples or sprinkled cinnamon, to match your personal preferences and wow your guests even more. The beauty of these pinwheels lies in their adaptability.

Perfect for Any Gathering

Whether you're hosting a grand holiday party or an intimate family dinner, these Cranberry Pinwheels are the ideal addition to your festive spread. Their vibrant color and eye-catching presentation make them a stunning centerpiece on any table. Plus, they can be made ahead of time, freeing you to enjoy quality moments with your loved ones during the celebration.

Moreover, these pinwheels cater to a variety of dietary preferences. You can easily customize them to be gluten-free by switching to rice tortillas or vegan by opting for a plant-based cream cheese alternative. This inclusivity ensures that everyone can indulge in the joy of these delightful treats without feeling left out.

Easy Preparation for Busy Hosts

One of the many advantages of making Christmas Cranberry Pinwheels is how quick and straightforward the preparation process is. In just a few simple steps, you can create an impressive dish that looks as good as it tastes. This ease of preparation is particularly beneficial during the bustling holiday season when time is often at a premium. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you won’t have to spend hours in the kitchen to provide your guests with something special.

Additionally, these pinwheels can be stored in the refrigerator for a couple of days before your gathering, allowing you to prepare them in advance. This feature makes them a savvy choice for party planning, ensuring that you can focus on enjoying the festivities while still offering a delicious homemade snack.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before you start to ensure a smooth preparation process!

Ingredients

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
  • 4 large flour tortillas
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure everything is measured accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious pinwheels.

Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and cranberry sauce until smooth and well blended.

Spread the Mixture

Lay each tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spread about a quarter of the cream cheese mixture evenly over each tortilla.

Add Pecans

If using, sprinkle the chopped pecans over the cream cheese mixture for added crunch.

Roll Up the Tortillas

Starting from one edge, roll the tortilla tightly into a log. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.

Slice and Serve

Slice each rolled tortilla into 1-inch pieces and arrange on a serving platter. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your delicious Christmas Cranberry Pinwheels!

Storage Tips

To maintain the freshness and texture of your Christmas Cranberry Pinwheels, it's best to store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can typically last for 2-3 days while still retaining their flavor and creaminess. If you find yourself with leftovers, simply slice them and place them in a container with layers of parchment paper to prevent sticking.

If you want to prepare them ahead of time for a special occasion, consider rolling them up, wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerating them until you're ready to slice and serve. This way, they remain fresh and ready to impress your guests!

Pairing Suggestions

These pinwheels pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages, making them a hit at any event. For a festive touch, consider serving them alongside sparkling cider or holiday-themed cocktails. The light, fruity flavors of these drinks complement the creamy and tart elements of the pinwheels perfectly.

In addition, for those who appreciate a savory accompaniment, a selection of cheeses, olives, or cured meats could enhance the overall tasting experience. Create a delightful platter with these pairings to entice your guests’ palates and keep the holiday spirit alive!

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute with goat cheese or any cheese of your choice.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Christmas Cranberry Pinwheels

Celebrate the festive season with these delightful Christmas Cranberry Pinwheels! Combining creamy cheese and tart cranberry sauce, these vibrant pinwheels are perfect for holiday gatherings or family get-togethers. Easy to make and visually stunning, they are sure to impress your guests and become a cherished addition to your holiday spread.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration0 minutes
Overall Time15 minutes

Created by: Emma

Recipe Type: Seasonal & Festive

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 24 pinwheels

What You'll Need

Ingredients

  1. 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  2. 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
  3. 4 large flour tortillas
  4. 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
  5. Fresh parsley for garnish

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and cranberry sauce until smooth and well blended.

Step 02

Lay each tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spread about a quarter of the cream cheese mixture evenly over each tortilla.

Step 03

If using, sprinkle the chopped pecans over the cream cheese mixture for added crunch.

Step 04

Starting from one edge, roll the tortilla tightly into a log. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.

Step 05

Slice each rolled tortilla into 1-inch pieces and arrange on a serving platter. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Serving Size: 2 pinwheels
  • Total Fat: 10g
  • Sodium: 110mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 14g
  • Protein: 3g