Save 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 our holiday potluck, and they became an instant favorite with their unique sweet-heat combo.
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
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling:
- 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.
- Assemble:
- Lay out the tortillas and spread an even layer of the cream cheese mixture over each, leaving a 1/2-inch (1 cm) border.
- Roll and Chill:
- Roll up each tortilla tightly into a log. 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 Every time I included these pinwheels at our family gatherings, my kids would race to grab a few before they disappeared from the tray!
Serving Suggestions
Arrange the pinwheels on a chilled platter and garnish with extra chopped cranberries or green onions for a festive look.
Make Ahead & Storage
Pinwheels can be assembled and refrigerated up to 24 hours in advance; simply slice and serve when ready.
Variations
Try swapping cream cheese with goat cheese for extra tang, or using bell peppers instead of jalapeños for a milder taste.
Save Pinwheels are best enjoyed chilled for ultimate freshness. Make extra, as they quickly disappear at gatherings!
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?
Yes, prepare and roll the pinwheels, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before slicing and serving.
- → How do I reduce the heat level?
Use less jalapeño or substitute with diced bell pepper for a milder version.
- → Are there alternative cheeses I can use?
Try using goat cheese for a tangier flavor or your favorite soft cheese blend.
- → Do I need to soak dried cranberries?
No soaking is needed; chop and mix them directly into the filling for texture and tartness.
- → What's the best way to serve these pinwheels?
Arrange chilled slices on a platter and garnish with extra green onions or fresh cilantro.
- → Can the pinwheels be frozen?
It's best not to freeze, as the texture of dairy and tortillas may become soggy after thawing.