Save to Pinterest A vibrant appetizer featuring tangy cranberries, zesty jalapeños, and creamy cheese rolled in soft tortillas—perfect for parties or holiday gatherings.
I first made these pinwheels for a holiday potluck with friends. The bold flavors and pretty swirls made them a huge hit, and they disappeared in minutes. The combination of tart cranberries and jalapeño with mellow cream cheese is unforgettable.
Ingredients
- Cream Cheese Filling: 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened, 1/3 cup (80 g) sour cream, 1 tablespoon honey
- Mix-Ins: 3/4 cup (90 g) dried cranberries, roughly chopped, 1/3 cup (40 g) fresh jalapeño, finely diced (remove seeds for less heat), 1/3 cup (25 g) green onions, thinly sliced, 1/2 cup (60 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Assembly: 4 large (10-inch/25 cm) flour tortillas
Instructions
- Beat Cream Cheese:
- In a medium mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, sour cream, and honey together until smooth and creamy.
- Add Mix-Ins:
- Stir in the chopped cranberries, diced jalapeño, green onions, shredded cheddar, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Spread on Tortillas:
- Lay out the tortillas and spread an even layer of the cream cheese mixture over each, leaving a ½-inch (1 cm) border around the edges.
- Roll Up:
- Roll up each tortilla tightly into a log.
- Chill:
- Wrap the rolls in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
- Slice and Serve:
- Unwrap and slice each roll into 1-inch (2.5 cm) pinwheels. Arrange on a serving platter.
Save to Pinterest My kids love helping me spread the creamy filling and rolling up the tortillas together. We make these every Thanksgiving morning, and it has become a delicious tradition for our family.
Flavor Variations
Try adding a handful of chopped fresh cilantro or substituting goat cheese for cream cheese for a tangier version. For a less spicy option, use minced bell pepper in place of jalapeño.
Serving Suggestions
Arrange the pinwheels on a festive platter and garnish with extra cranberries and green onions. These make excellent finger food for holiday parties, potlucks, or game days.
Storage Tips
Pinwheels can be made ahead and stored chilled in an airtight container for up to 24 hours. Slice just before serving for the freshest appearance.
Save to Pinterest These festive pinwheels are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Make a double batch if you want leftovers—they disappear fast!
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I prepare these pinwheels ahead of time?
Yes, you can roll and chill them a day in advance; slice before serving for freshest texture.
- → How can I make the pinwheels less spicy?
Use less jalapeño, remove all seeds, or substitute with bell pepper for a mild flavor.
- → What’s a good substitute for cream cheese?
Goat cheese gives a tangier taste, or use Neufchâtel for a lighter version with similar texture.
- → Are these suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, they use only plant-based ingredients except for dairy, making them vegetarian-friendly.
- → Can I add other herbs or spices?
Fresh cilantro, parsley, or a dash of smoked paprika add extra flavor to the pinwheels.