Cranberry Feta Jalapeño Pinwheels: A Festive Appetizer Recipe

Looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s both sweet and savory with a kick? These Cranberry Feta Jalapeño Pinwheels are the perfect choice! They’re easy to make, visually appealing, and bursting with flavor. The combination of tart cranberries, creamy feta cheese, and spicy jalapeños creates a delightful explosion in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, a game day gathering, or simply want a tasty snack, these pinwheels are guaranteed to be a hit.

Why You’ll Love These Cranberry Feta Jalapeño Pinwheels

• Flavorful Combination: The sweet, tart, salty, and spicy elements create a well-balanced and addictive taste.
• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps and readily available ingredients, you can whip up these pinwheels in no time.
• Versatile: These pinwheels are perfect for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to formal parties.
• Visually Appealing: The vibrant colors of the cranberries, feta, and jalapeños make these pinwheels a beautiful addition to any appetizer spread.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the pinwheels ahead of time and bake them just before serving, saving you time and stress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened: The base of our creamy filling. Make sure it’s softened so it blends easily.
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese: Adds a salty and tangy flavor.
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped: Provides a sweet and chewy texture, essential for the sweet-tart contrast.
• 2 jalapeños, seeded and finely diced: Delivers the perfect amount of heat. Adjust quantity based on your spice preference. Removing the seeds reduces the heat level.
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro: Lends a fresh, herbaceous note. Parsley can be substituted if you are not a fan of cilantro.
• 1 tablespoon honey: A touch of sweetness that complements the other flavors. You can substitute with agave nectar or maple syrup.
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a savory depth.
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Provides a subtle spice.
• 4 large flour tortillas: The canvas for our delicious filling. Use regular or flavored tortillas (such as spinach or sun-dried tomato) for added variety.
• Optional: Everything bagel seasoning or sesame seeds for topping.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Large Mixing Bowl: To combine the filling ingredients.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Knife and Cutting Board: To chop the cranberries, jalapeños, and cilantro.
• Rubber Spatula or Spoon: To mix the filling and spread it evenly on the tortillas.
• Plastic Wrap: To wrap the rolled pinwheels for chilling.
• Baking Sheet: To bake the pinwheels until golden brown.
• Parchment Paper (optional): To line the baking sheet for easy cleanup.
• Pizza Cutter or Sharp Knife: To slice the pinwheels.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your own batch of irresistible Cranberry Feta Jalapeño Pinwheels:

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, feta cheese, chopped dried cranberries, diced jalapeños, chopped cilantro, honey, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated and the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Pro Tip: Make sure your cream cheese is properly softened for easier mixing. You can leave it at room temperature for about 30 minutes or microwave it for a few seconds on low power.

Step 2: Assemble the Pinwheels

Lay one flour tortilla on a flat surface, such as a cutting board. Spread an even layer of the cranberry feta jalapeño filling over the entire surface of the tortilla, leaving a small border at the edge. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.

Pro Tip: Don’t overfill the tortillas, as this can make them difficult to roll and the filling may squeeze out. A thin, even layer is all you need.

Step 3: Roll and Chill

Tightly roll up each tortilla, starting at one end and working your way to the other. Wrap each rolled tortilla tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped rolls in the refrigerator and chill for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. This will help the pinwheels hold their shape and make them easier to slice.

Pro Tip: For best results, chill the pinwheels for at least an hour. This allows the flavors to meld together and the filling to firm up.

Step 4: Slice and Bake (Optional)

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup (optional). Remove the chilled pinwheel rolls from the refrigerator. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice each roll into 1/2-inch to 3/4-inch thick pinwheels. Place the pinwheels on the prepared baking sheet, cut-side up. If desired, sprinkle the tops with everything bagel seasoning or sesame seeds for added flavor and texture.

Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the pinwheels are lightly golden brown and the filling is warm. Alternatively, you can serve the pinwheels cold without baking.

Pro Tip: If you’re serving the pinwheels cold, you can skip the baking step. Just slice and arrange them on a platter.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the baked pinwheels from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Arrange the pinwheels on a serving platter and enjoy! These Cranberry Feta Jalapeño Pinwheels are best served fresh and are perfect for parties, gatherings, or as a tasty snack.

Tips and Variations

• Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder flavor, use only one jalapeño or remove the seeds and membranes completely. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling.
• Use Different Cheeses: Experiment with other cheeses, such as goat cheese, pepper jack cheese, or shredded cheddar cheese.
• Add Nuts: Toasted pecans or walnuts can add a nice crunch and nutty flavor to the pinwheels.
• Substitute Herbs: If you don’t like cilantro, you can use parsley, chives, or dill instead.
• Use Different Tortillas: Try using spinach tortillas, sun-dried tomato tortillas, or whole wheat tortillas for added flavor and nutrition.
• Add Vegetables: Finely diced red bell pepper or green onions can add color and flavor to the pinwheels.
• Make it Vegetarian: Ensure that the feta cheese you use is vegetarian-friendly, as some feta cheeses contain animal rennet.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free tortillas to make this appetizer suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Make it Ahead: The pinwheels can be assembled and chilled for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes them a great option for entertaining.

Serving Suggestions

These Cranberry Feta Jalapeño Pinwheels are a versatile appetizer that can be served in various ways:

• Party Appetizer: Arrange the pinwheels on a platter and serve them as part of a larger appetizer spread.
• Game Day Snack: These pinwheels are perfect for game day gatherings and tailgates.
• Holiday Appetizer: The festive colors of the cranberries and jalapeños make these pinwheels a great choice for holiday parties.
• Lunchbox Treat: Pack a few pinwheels in your lunchbox for a tasty and satisfying snack.
• Picnic Food: These pinwheels are easy to transport and make a great addition to any picnic.

Storage Instructions

Store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, consume them within 1-2 days. You can reheat the pinwheels in the oven or microwave, but they are also delicious served cold.

Nutritional Information (per pinwheel)

(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.)

• Calories: Approximately 150-200
• Fat: 10-15g
• Saturated Fat: 6-9g
• Cholesterol: 30-40mg
• Sodium: 200-300mg
• Carbohydrates: 10-15g
• Fiber: 1-2g
• Sugar: 3-5g
• Protein: 4-6g

Cranberry Feta Jalapeño Pinwheels Recipe

Here’s the complete recipe for these delicious pinwheels:

Yields: Approximately 24-32 pinwheels

Prep time: 20 minutes

Chill time: 30 minutes – 2 hours

Cook time: 10-12 minutes (optional)

Ingredients:

• 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
• 2 jalapeños, seeded and finely diced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 large flour tortillas
• Optional: Everything bagel seasoning or sesame seeds for topping

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, feta cheese, chopped dried cranberries, diced jalapeños, chopped cilantro, honey, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. Lay one flour tortilla on a flat surface. Spread an even layer of the cranberry feta jalapeño filling over the entire surface of the tortilla. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.
3. Tightly roll up each tortilla, starting at one end and working your way to the other. Wrap each rolled tortilla tightly in plastic wrap.
4. Place the wrapped rolls in the refrigerator and chill for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours.
5. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) (optional). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper (optional).
6. Remove the chilled pinwheel rolls from the refrigerator. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice each roll into 1/2-inch to 3/4-inch thick pinwheels.
7. Place the pinwheels on the prepared baking sheet, cut-side up. If desired, sprinkle the tops with everything bagel seasoning or sesame seeds.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the pinwheels are lightly golden brown and the filling is warm (optional).
9. Remove the baked pinwheels from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Arrange the pinwheels on a serving platter and enjoy!

Conclusion

These Cranberry Feta Jalapeño Pinwheels are a delightful and easy-to-make appetizer that’s sure to impress. The combination of sweet cranberries, salty feta, and spicy jalapeños creates a flavor explosion that will leave your guests wanting more. Whether you’re hosting a party, need a quick snack, or want to add a festive touch to your holiday spread, these pinwheels are the perfect choice. Give this recipe a try and get ready to enjoy the deliciousness!

Enjoy your Cranberry Feta Jalapeño Pinwheels!