Bright, tangy, and delightfully creamy, these Cranberry-Orange Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Pecans are the perfect make-ahead appetizer or snack for the holidays. Each bite combines the sweetness of cranberries, the citrusy zing of orange, and the crunch of toasted pecans all wrapped up in a soft tortilla. Whether you’re serving them at a party or packing them for a festive lunch, these pinwheels are as beautiful as they are delicious!

Ingredients

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
1/4 cup orange juice
1 tablespoon orange zest
1/2 cup pecans, chopped
4 large flour tortillas
1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Salt to taste

Instructions

Mix the Filling:
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth and creamy. Add honey if you prefer a touch of sweetness.
Assemble the Pinwheels:
Lay one flour tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spread a generous layer of the cream cheese mixture evenly across, leaving about 1/2 inch around the edges.
Add the Crunch:
Sprinkle chopped pecans evenly over the cream cheese layer, pressing them lightly into the filling so they adhere.
Roll and Chill:
Starting at one edge, tightly roll the tortilla into a log shape. Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas and filling. Wrap each roll in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
Slice and Serve:
Once chilled, remove the wraps from the refrigerator and slice into 1-inch pinwheels. Arrange neatly on a serving platter and enjoy the colorful, festive presentation!

Variation

Add a Touch of Spice: Sprinkle a little ground cinnamon or nutmeg into the filling for a warm holiday flavor that pairs beautifully with the cranberries and orange.
Use Different Nuts: Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds for a slightly different crunch and flavor profile. Toast them beforehand for extra depth.
Try a Wrap Upgrade: For a festive touch, use spinach or sun-dried tomato tortillas. The color contrast makes the pinwheels look even more eye-catching on a party tray.

Cooking Notes

Be sure your cream cheese is fully softened before mixing—it ensures a smooth, spreadable filling.
Chop the cranberries finely so they distribute evenly throughout the mixture.
Don’t skip the chilling step! It helps the pinwheels hold their shape for clean, beautiful slices.

Serving Suggestions

As an Appetizer: Arrange the pinwheels on a platter with fresh orange slices and mint leaves for a beautiful presentation.
For Brunch: Pair them with a light fruit salad or sparkling mimosa for a festive brunch spread.
On the Go: Pack them in lunchboxes or picnic baskets—they travel well and taste great chilled or at room temperature.

Tips

Prevent Soggy Tortillas: Make sure the filling isn’t too wet. If your orange juice is freshly squeezed, strain it first.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the rolls up to 24 hours in advance. Slice just before serving for the freshest look.
Keep It Neat: Use a sharp, serrated knife to cut clean slices without flattening the pinwheels.

Prep Time:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 210 kcal
Protein: 4 g
Sodium: 180 mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Dried cranberries work best here because they’re less watery and provide a pleasant chewy texture. If using fresh, chop them finely and add a bit of extra honey to balance the tartness.
Can I freeze the pinwheels?
These pinwheels are best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated. Freezing can cause the cream cheese filling to separate when thawed.
How long will they last in the fridge?
Store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. They’ll still taste fresh and flavorful.
Can I make them gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just use gluten-free tortillas, and the rest of the recipe remains the same.

Conclusion

These Cranberry-Orange Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Pecans are a vibrant, no-bake delight that brings together the best flavors of the season. With their creamy texture, crunchy nuts, and refreshing citrus notes, they’re sure to steal the spotlight at any gathering. Simple to prepare, beautiful to serve, and irresistibly delicious these festive pinwheels are a holiday hit you’ll make again and again!