Turkey & Cranberry Pinwheels Recipe

There’s something about the holiday season that calls for cozy, flavorful bites that bring people together. Turkey & Cranberry Pinwheels are the perfect appetizer to kick off a festive gathering, a Friendsgiving celebration, or even a casual winter afternoon with friends. These bite-sized delights combine savory turkey with the sweet-tart punch of cranberry, all wrapped in a soft, buttery tortilla that makes every bite irresistible.

The inspiration for this recipe comes from a cherished family tradition. Every year, during the holiday season, we would gather around the kitchen, sharing stories and laughter while rolling up turkey and cranberry treats. These pinwheels became an instant hit with kids and adults alike, not only for their taste but also for their playful spiral presentation. They’re visually appealing, easy to serve, and perfect for making ahead of time. Whether you’re planning a holiday brunch, an appetizer tray, or a fun snack for game day, these pinwheels are sure to delight everyone at the table.

Ingredients

• 4 large flour tortillas

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2 cups cooked turkey, finely chopped

• 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (smooth or slightly chunky)

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Prepare the Spread
   In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

2. Lay Out the Tortillas
   Place a tortilla on a clean, flat surface. Spread an even layer of the cream cheese mixture over the entire tortilla, leaving about 1/2 inch at the edges free.

3. Layer the Turkey and Cranberry
   Evenly distribute the finely chopped turkey over the cream cheese spread. Spoon cranberry sauce in small dollops on top of the turkey, spreading gently to maintain balance of flavors. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top.

4. Roll the Pinwheels
   Starting from one edge, carefully roll the tortilla tightly into a log shape. Ensure the filling stays inside and the roll is firm but not crushed.

5. Chill Before Slicing
   Wrap the rolled tortilla in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling makes slicing easier and helps the pinwheels hold their shape.

6. Slice and Serve
   Remove the roll from the refrigerator and unwrap. Using a sharp knife, slice the roll into 1-inch pinwheels. Arrange them on a serving platter. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

7. Optional Serving Tip
   For a colorful presentation, layer the pinwheels on a tray with fresh greens or cranberries scattered around. Serve chilled or at room temperature for optimal flavor.

Why This Recipe Works

Turkey & Cranberry Pinwheels balance flavors and textures beautifully. The cream cheese provides a smooth and tangy base, while the turkey adds a hearty, savory layer. Cranberries bring a sweet and slightly tart contrast, and the cheddar cheese adds depth with a subtle sharpness. The tortillas hold everything together and create a fun, spiral visual that’s perfect for parties.

This recipe is also versatile. You can swap cheddar for Swiss, gouda, or pepper jack to adjust the flavor profile. Leftover turkey from a holiday meal can be used, making it an ideal solution for minimizing food waste while creating something new and exciting. The pinwheels are easy to customize with herbs, spices, or even roasted vegetables, making them adaptable to any occasion or taste preference.

Tips for Perfect Pinwheels

• Use room temperature ingredients: Softened cream cheese spreads more evenly and helps bind the filling.

• Chill before slicing: This prevents the pinwheels from falling apart and gives clean, neat spirals.

• Adjust cranberry sauce: For those who prefer less sweetness, reduce the cranberry amount slightly or choose a lightly sweetened variety.

• Experiment with herbs: Fresh thyme or rosemary pairs well with turkey and cranberry for a more aromatic flavor.

• Make ahead: Pinwheels can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for convenience.

Perfect Occasions for Turkey & Cranberry Pinwheels

These pinwheels shine during festive gatherings. Here are a few occasions where they’re especially fitting:

• Friendsgiving or Thanksgiving: A playful appetizer that complements a traditional turkey dinner.

• Holiday Parties: Easy to pick up and enjoy, making them ideal for standing receptions or cocktail-style events.

• Winter Brunches: Light enough for a morning or midday meal, paired with fruit and pastries.

• Game Day Snacks: Bite-sized and easy to serve alongside dips and chips, keeping the crowd satisfied.

• Potlucks and Gatherings: Transport easily and are sure to disappear fast.

The beauty of this recipe is that it turns simple ingredients into a crowd-pleasing appetizer that feels special and festive without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Nutritional Information

While pinwheels are often enjoyed as a treat, they offer some nutritional benefits when made with quality ingredients:

• Turkey: High in protein and low in fat, turkey provides essential amino acids and supports muscle health.

• Cranberries: Packed with antioxidants and vitamins, cranberries add a touch of natural sweetness and a boost of nutrition.

• Cream Cheese and Cheddar: Offer calcium and protein, although moderation is key due to fat content.

For a lighter option, use low-fat cream cheese or whole-grain tortillas. Adding leafy greens to the roll can also increase fiber and nutrient content without compromising flavor.

Variations and Flavor Twists

Turkey & Cranberry Pinwheels are versatile, and there are several ways to put your unique spin on them:

• Cheese Variety: Swap cheddar for Swiss, gouda, or pepper jack to change the flavor profile.

• Add Vegetables: Finely diced bell peppers, spinach, or roasted red peppers add color, texture, and nutrients.

• Herbs and Spices: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme, parsley, or rosemary for extra aroma. A sprinkle of paprika or black pepper can add a subtle kick.

• Mini Pinwheels: Use smaller tortillas to create bite-sized appetizers perfect for kids or party trays.

• Cream Cheese Mix-ins: Blend in a teaspoon of honey or a small amount of horseradish for a sweet or tangy twist.

These variations make the pinwheels highly customizable, so you can adjust them for different seasons, flavor preferences, or dietary needs.

Serving Suggestions

Presentation plays a big role in making these pinwheels irresistible:

• On a Platter: Arrange in concentric circles with fresh parsley or cranberries scattered around.

• Skewered: Use toothpicks to keep pinwheels upright for easy grab-and-go bites.

• Paired with Dips: Serve alongside a light ranch, honey mustard, or yogurt-based dip for extra flavor.

• With Fresh Produce: Complement with carrot sticks, celery, or cucumber slices for a balanced appetizer tray.

Serving them with colorful garnishes not only adds visual appeal but also elevates the overall dining experience, making them look as good as they taste.

Storage and Leftovers

Proper storage ensures your pinwheels stay fresh and flavorful:

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, but you can warm slightly in the oven for a few minutes if desired.

• Freezing: As mentioned, slice and wrap individually before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Leftover pinwheels make excellent lunchbox additions or snack options, making them not only a festive appetizer but also a practical, versatile recipe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, making Turkey & Cranberry Pinwheels ahead of time is not only possible but highly recommended, especially if you’re preparing for a party or holiday gathering. Rolling the tortillas and chilling them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to an hour allows the filling to firm up, which makes slicing much easier and helps the pinwheels hold their spiral shape beautifully. You can even prepare them a full day in advance and store them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, simply slice and arrange on a platter. Preparing ahead also gives the flavors more time to meld, enhancing the taste as the turkey, cranberry, and cream cheese layers absorb each other’s flavors. This makes the pinwheels not just convenient but even more flavorful.

Can I use leftover turkey?
Absolutely! Leftover turkey is perfect for this recipe, making it an excellent way to repurpose holiday or weeknight dinner leftovers. Using pre-cooked turkey saves time while still providing a hearty and flavorful base for your pinwheels. Just be sure to chop the turkey finely so that the pinwheels roll evenly and slice cleanly. Larger chunks can make rolling difficult and may cause the tortillas to tear or the pinwheels to fall apart. Leftover turkey also tends to be more flavorful after a day in the refrigerator, which adds extra depth to the overall taste of the pinwheels. This is a simple and practical way to minimize food waste while creating a dish that looks festive and tastes fresh.

Can I freeze the pinwheels?
Yes, you can freeze Turkey & Cranberry Pinwheels, but there are a few tips to maintain their texture and flavor. It’s best to slice the pinwheels first and then individually wrap each piece in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This prevents them from sticking together and preserves the spiral shape. When you’re ready to serve, thaw the pinwheels in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight. Keep in mind that cream cheese may slightly change in texture after freezing, so these are often best enjoyed chilled rather than heated. Freezing is a great option if you want to prepare appetizers in advance for parties or to have a quick grab-and-go snack on hand.

Can I substitute the tortillas?
Yes! You’re not limited to classic flour tortillas. Whole wheat tortillas, spinach tortillas, or gluten-free varieties all work well. The key is to choose a soft, pliable tortilla to prevent cracking while rolling. Softer tortillas help keep the filling intact and ensure that your pinwheels look neat and hold together when sliced. You can even experiment with flavored tortillas, like tomato basil or herb-infused, to add an extra layer of taste that complements the turkey and cranberry combination.

Turkey & Cranberry Pinwheels Recipe

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• Author: Michelle Davis
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 12–16 pinwheels 1x

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Description

Turkey & Cranberry Pinwheels are a festive, flavorful appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings, Friendsgiving celebrations, or cozy winter evenings. These bite-sized spirals combine savory turkey with the sweet-tart taste of cranberry sauce, all wrapped in a soft, buttery tortilla with a layer of creamy cheese. The result is a visually appealing and crowd-pleasing snack that’s both easy to make and fun to serve. Inspired by a family tradition of holiday cooking and shared stories, this recipe brings warmth, nostalgia, and a touch of elegance to any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or preparing a simple snack for loved ones, these pinwheels are guaranteed to impress with every spiral.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 large flour tortillas

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2 cups cooked turkey, finely chopped

• 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (smooth or slightly chunky)

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

• In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.

• Lay a tortilla on a clean surface and spread an even layer of the cream cheese mixture, leaving about 1/2 inch at the edges.

• Evenly distribute chopped turkey over the cream cheese. Spoon cranberry sauce in small dollops and spread gently. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.

• Starting from one edge, roll the tortilla tightly into a log. Ensure the filling stays inside and the roll is firm but not crushed.

• Wrap the rolled tortilla in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to help the pinwheels hold their shape.

• Remove from refrigerator and unwrap. Using a sharp knife, slice the roll into 1-inch pinwheels.

• Arrange on a serving platter and garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve chilled or at room

Notes

• Use a sharp knife for clean slices.

• Room temperature cream cheese spreads more evenly.

• Adjust cranberry sauce sweetness as desired.

• Optional: Toast lightly in the oven for a warm, golden finish.

• Prep Time: 50 minutes (including chilling)
• Cook Time: 0 minutes

Michelle Davis