Delicious Cranberry Turkey Pinwheels are the perfect bite-sized snack or appetizer, combining the savory flavors of turkey with the sweet and tangy taste of cranberry sauce. These easy-to-make pinwheels are not only visually appealing but also incredibly delicious and satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a quick lunch, or want a snack, these pinwheels are a hit every time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cranberry turkey pinwheels are the perfect combination of flavors and textures—creamy, tangy, and savory all in one bite. The soft tortilla wraps hold the ingredients together perfectly, making them easy to serve and enjoy at any gathering. They’re also highly customizable, so you can add extra ingredients like cheese, spinach, or herbs to suit your taste.

Ingredients

For the pinwheels:

• 4 large flour tortillas (whole wheat or spinach tortillas work well too)

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened

• 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (preferably homemade or whole berry cranberry sauce)

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)

• 1 pound deli turkey breast slices (preferably thinly sliced)

• 1 cup fresh spinach leaves (optional, for added crunch and color)

• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or your favorite variety; optional)

Directions

Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:

1. In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cranberry sauce, and Dijon mustard (if using). Stir until smooth and well combined.

Assemble the Pinwheels:

1. Lay each tortilla flat on a clean surface.

2. Spread a generous layer of the cranberry-cream cheese mixture evenly over each tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.

3. Place a few slices of turkey on top of the cranberry mixture, covering most of the surface.

4. If using spinach, layer a few fresh spinach leaves on top of the turkey. For added flavor, sprinkle some shredded cheese over the spinach.

Roll and Slice:

1. Carefully roll the tortillas up tightly, starting from one edge, making sure all the fillings are wrapped securely inside.

2. Using a sharp knife, slice the rolled tortillas into 1-inch thick pinwheels. Arrange the pinwheels on a platter, and they’re ready to serve!

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 16-20 pinwheels, depending on how thick you slice them. Prep time is about 10 minutes, and there’s no cooking involved, so they’re ready in just 10-15 minutes.

Variations

I like to:

• Add a few slices of cheese to the roll-up for extra creaminess and flavor.

• Experiment with different wraps, such as whole wheat or spinach tortillas, to add a different color and flavor to the pinwheels.

• For a bit of heat, add a few slices of jalapeños or drizzle with hot sauce before rolling up.

• Use leftover Thanksgiving turkey or chicken in place of deli turkey for a more homemade touch.

Storage/Reheating

If I have leftovers, I store the cranberry turkey pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. These pinwheels are best enjoyed fresh, but they will stay fresh for a day or two. You can also freeze the pinwheels by placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag and storing them for up to 1 month. To serve, I let them thaw in the fridge overnight and slice them when ready to serve.

FAQs

Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?

Yes, I can assemble the pinwheels a few hours in advance and keep them covered in the fridge. They’ll be ready to slice and serve when needed.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Yes, I can use gluten-free tortillas instead of regular flour tortillas to make these pinwheels gluten-free.

How can I make the cranberry sauce from scratch?

To make homemade cranberry sauce, I simply cook 12 ounces of fresh cranberries with 1/2 cup of sugar, 1/2 cup of water, and a squeeze of orange juice over medium heat. Let it simmer until the cranberries pop and the sauce thickens. Allow it to cool before using.

Conclusion

Delicious Cranberry Turkey Pinwheels are a simple yet flavorful appetizer that will always be a crowd-pleaser. The combination of turkey, cranberry, and cream cheese is a perfect balance of savory and sweet, while the pinwheel format makes them easy to eat and enjoy. Whether you’re serving them at a party, making a quick lunch, or looking for a fun snack, these pinwheels are sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire!