Cranberry Feta Pinwheels

The holidays are the perfect time to gather around with friends and family, and nothing brings a party table to life quite like a platter of vibrant, bite-sized treats. These cranberry feta pinwheels are one of my favorite holiday staples—they’re colorful, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. Each pinwheel combines the sweet tartness of cranberries with the creamy tang of feta, all wrapped up in a soft, buttery tortilla that’s perfect for snacking.

I love how versatile these cranberry roll ups are. You can make them ahead of time, slice them into perfect rounds, and store them in the fridge until guests arrive. They’re also a great conversation starter because everyone can’t resist reaching for one! Whether you’re planning a Christmas brunch, a cozy family gathering, or a festive cocktail party, these cranberry cream cheese pinwheels bring that special touch that makes your table feel complete.

The flavor combination is a little unexpected, which is exactly what makes them so fun. Sweet cranberries, salty feta, and a hint of fresh herbs come together beautifully. The texture is just as appealing—the creamy filling against the soft tortilla and slight chew of the cranberries makes every bite irresistible.

Beyond flavor, these holiday pinwheels are just plain fun to make. Rolling them up and slicing them feels like crafting a little gift for your guests. They’re perfect as savory finger foods appetizers, so everyone can grab a piece without fuss. Once you try them, I guarantee they’ll become a recurring favorite every holiday season.

Why You’ll Love It

• Burst of Flavor in Every Bite: The combination of tangy feta, sweet cranberries, and creamy filling makes these cranberry roll ups a flavor-packed snack that’s both surprising and comforting.
• Perfect for Entertaining: These holiday pinwheels are easy to make ahead and look beautiful on a platter, making them ideal for Christmas appetizers or any festive gathering.
• Kid-Friendly and Crowd-Pleasing: Soft, bite-sized, and fun to eat, these cranberry cream cheese pinwheels are a hit with both kids and adults alike—everyone reaches for seconds!
• Quick and Stress-Free: No complicated steps or fancy ingredients required. These roll up appetizers come together in under 20 minutes, giving you more time to enjoy the holidays.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: While they shine during the holidays, these savory finger foods appetizers also work perfectly for brunches, potlucks, or casual get-togethers.

Ingredient List

For the Pinwheels:

• 4 large flour tortillas
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Ingredient Notes

• I always use full-fat cream cheese—it makes the cranberry cream cheese pinwheels extra creamy and indulgent.
• Don’t skip the feta! Its tangy flavor balances the sweetness of the cranberries perfectly.
• Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness. I like using flat-leaf parsley for the best flavor.
• Chopped cranberries make every bite fruity and festive—dried ones work best here.
• A drizzle of honey is optional but gives these holiday pinwheels a subtle sweetness that’s irresistible.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowl: For combining the cream cheese, feta, and herbs—my favorite is a medium glass bowl because it’s easy to scrape.
• Spatula or spoon: To mix and spread the filling evenly onto the tortillas.
• Sharp knife: For slicing the rolled pinwheels cleanly—serrated knives work especially well.
• Cutting board: To roll and slice the pinwheels without making a mess.
• Plastic wrap or parchment paper: Helps keep the roll tight while chilling.
• Serving platter: To display your cranberry roll ups beautifully for guests.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling

• In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and crumbled feta.
• Stir in the chopped cranberries and finely chopped parsley until evenly distributed.
• Add a pinch of salt and black pepper, and drizzle in honey if using.
  Pro tip: Make sure the cream cheese is very soft—this makes spreading much easier and keeps your pinwheels smooth.

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2. Spread the Filling on Tortillas

• Lay a tortilla flat on a cutting board or clean surface.
• Using a spatula or the back of a spoon, spread about 1/4 of the filling evenly over the entire surface of the tortilla.
  Pro tip: Leave about 1/2 inch around the edges to prevent the filling from spilling out when rolling.

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3. Roll the Tortillas

• Starting from one edge, carefully roll the tortilla into a tight log.
• Wrap the roll in plastic wrap or parchment paper and gently press to secure.
• Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
  Pro tip: Roll slowly and evenly to avoid air pockets, which can make slicing uneven.

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4. Chill Before Slicing

• Place the wrapped rolls in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
• Chilling makes it easier to slice cleanly and helps the pinwheels hold their shape.

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5. Slice Into Pinwheels

• Unwrap the chilled rolls and place them on a cutting board.
• Using a sharp knife, slice each roll into 1/2-inch rounds.
• Arrange the cranberry feta pinwheels on a serving platter.
  Pro tip: Use a serrated knife for cleaner cuts without squishing the filling.

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6. Serve and Enjoy

• Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate until ready to enjoy.
• These roll up appetizers are perfect for Christmas parties, holiday brunches, or any festive gathering.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Soft cream cheese is key: Let it sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes to make spreading easier.
• Chill before slicing: This keeps the pinwheels firm and prevents them from falling apart.
• Even spreading: Use the back of a spoon or an offset spatula to create a smooth, even layer of filling.
• Tight rolling: Roll slowly and gently to avoid air pockets, which can make slices uneven.
• Use a sharp knife: A serrated or very sharp knife prevents squishing and keeps edges clean.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

• Tortillas: Swap flour tortillas for whole wheat or spinach tortillas for a fun twist and extra color.
• Cheese: Try goat cheese or ricotta instead of feta for a creamier, slightly different flavor.
• Herbs: Swap parsley for fresh basil or chives for a subtle change in taste.
• Cranberries: Use dried cherries or raisins if you don’t have cranberries on hand.
• Sweetener: Maple syrup works instead of honey for a slightly richer sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

• I love arranging these cranberry feta pinwheels on a festive platter with sprigs of fresh rosemary—it makes them look extra holiday-ready.
• Serve alongside a bowl of mixed nuts and olives for a simple, elegant appetizer spread at Christmas parties.
• Pair with a crisp white wine or sparkling cider—the tangy feta and sweet cranberries balance beautifully with bubbly drinks.
• Add them to a brunch table next to mini quiches and fresh fruit—it’s a colorful, crowd-pleasing combination.
• Wrap a few in parchment and include in holiday gift baskets or picnic boxes—they’re perfect for sharing!

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month; thaw in the fridge before serving.
• Serve cold: These roll up appetizers are best enjoyed chilled—no reheating needed.
• Prep ahead: Make the pinwheels a day in advance to save time for party day.
• Keep them tight: Store sliced pinwheels in a single layer or with parchment between layers to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these cranberry feta pinwheels ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare and roll them a day in advance, then slice just before serving. Chilling helps them hold their shape perfectly.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! Goat cheese or ricotta works well if you want a creamier texture. Just keep the balance of flavors in mind—the cranberries pair beautifully with tangy cheeses.

Are these pinwheels kid-friendly?

Definitely! They’re soft, bite-sized, and slightly sweet from the cranberries, making them a hit with kids and adults alike.

Can I freeze the pinwheels?

Yes, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge before slicing and serving.

How can I make them more festive?

Add fresh herbs like basil or chives, or use colorful tortillas like spinach or sun-dried tomato for a holiday-ready presentation.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Yes, just swap the flour tortillas for gluten-free tortillas, and the recipe works the same way.

Did you try this recipe? Let me know in the comments how it turned out!