These Cranberry-Pecan Pinwheels are a festive, colorful, and irresistibly creamy appetizer perfect for any holiday spread or party platter. Each bite combines tangy cream cheese, sweet cranberries, crunchy pecans, and a bright hint of orange zest—all wrapped up in a soft flour tortilla. With no cooking required and a quick prep time, these pinwheels are as easy to make as they are to enjoy!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely sliced
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 4 large flour tortillas
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, chopped cranberries, pecans, green onions, orange zest, honey, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and evenly blended.
- Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface and spread a generous layer of the cranberry-pecan mixture evenly over it, leaving a small border around the edge.
- Starting from one end, roll the tortilla tightly into a log shape. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
- Wrap each rolled tortilla in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
- Once chilled, unwrap and slice each roll into 1-inch pinwheels.
- Arrange on a serving platter and garnish with extra orange zest, if desired. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Variation
- Add a savory twist: Mix in crumbled feta or goat cheese for extra tang and depth of flavor.
- Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce for a zesty kick.
- Try different nuts: Substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or pistachios for a different flavor and texture.
- Use flavored tortillas: Spinach, sun-dried tomato, or whole wheat tortillas add color and extra taste.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened for smooth mixing.
- Rolling tightly helps the pinwheels hold their shape and prevents the filling from falling out.
- Chill thoroughly before slicing this makes clean, even cuts and helps the layers stay intact.
Serving Suggestions
- Party platter perfection: Arrange on a large serving board with sprigs of fresh rosemary or orange slices for a festive touch.
- Pair with dips: Serve alongside cranberry sauce or a light yogurt-honey dip to complement the flavors.
- Holiday brunch: Add these to your brunch spread with fruit, cheese, and sparkling drinks for a colorful, crowd-pleasing addition.
Tips
- Use a sharp knife: For clean, neat pinwheel slices without squishing the rolls.
- Prep ahead: These can be made up to 24 hours in advance—store wrapped in plastic until ready to slice.
- Balance the flavor: Taste the filling before spreading; adjust the sweetness or spice to your preference.
Prep Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Protein: 5 g
- Sodium: 210 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?
Flour tortillas are best for flexibility and soft texture, but you can use corn tortillas if slightly warmed to prevent cracking. - How far in advance can I make these?
You can prepare them up to a day ahead. Keep the rolled tortillas wrapped tightly in plastic until ready to slice and serve. - Can I freeze the pinwheels?
It’s not recommended, as freezing may affect the creamy texture and make the tortillas soggy once thawed. - What can I add for extra flavor?
Try adding chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme, or mix in a few crumbles of blue cheese for a gourmet touch.
Conclusion
These Cranberry-Pecan Pinwheels are a quick, no-bake holiday favorite bursting with flavor and festive flair. Sweet, tangy, and creamy with a bright orange zest finish, they’re the perfect make-ahead appetizer for parties, potlucks, or family gatherings. Simple to make and even easier to enjoy watch them disappear fast!
Print
Cranberry Pecan Pinwheels
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Cranberry-Pecan Pinwheels are a festive, colorful, and irresistibly creamy appetizer perfect for any holiday spread or party platter. Each bite combines tangy cream cheese, sweet cranberries, crunchy pecans, and a bright hint of orange zest—all wrapped up in a soft flour tortilla. With no cooking required and a quick prep time, these pinwheels are as easy to make as they are to enjoy!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely sliced
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 4 large flour tortillas
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, chopped cranberries, pecans, green onions, orange zest, honey, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and evenly blended.
- Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface and spread a generous layer of the cranberry-pecan mixture evenly over it, leaving a small border around the edge.
- Starting from one end, roll the tortilla tightly into a log shape. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
- Wrap each rolled tortilla in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
- Once chilled, unwrap and slice each roll into 1-inch pinwheels.
- Arrange on a serving platter and garnish with extra orange zest, if desired. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened for smooth mixing.
- Rolling tightly helps the pinwheels hold their shape and prevents the filling from falling out.
- Chill thoroughly before slicing this makes clean, even cuts and helps the layers stay intact.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-bake / Chilled
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of recipe
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 210 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg
Keywords: cranberry pecan pinwheels, holiday appetizer, orange zest pinwheels, no bake appetizers, festive tortilla roll ups