Turkey Cranberry Pinwheels

Looking for a fun, festive, and absolutely delicious bite-sized treat for your next gathering or lunch? Let me introduce you to Turkey Cranberry Pinwheels—the perfect balance of savory turkey, creamy cheese, and sweet, tangy cranberry sauce wrapped up in a soft tortilla. These little rolls are bursting with flavor and are seriously addicting! Whether you’re looking for an easy appetizer, a lunch idea, or something to bring to a holiday party, these turkey cranberry pinwheels are your go-to. Trust me, they’re going to be a huge hit! The flavors combine so beautifully, you’ll want to make them again and again.

Why You’ll Love Turkey Cranberry Pinwheels

Here’s why these turkey cranberry pinwheels are an absolute must-try:

Quick and Easy to Make

These pinwheels come together in a snap with minimal effort, so you can spend more time relaxing and less time cooking. With just a few ingredients, you’re good to go!

Perfect for Parties

These pinwheels are ideal for parties, potlucks, or even as a light lunch or snack. They’re easy to transport, bite-sized, and always a crowd-pleaser!

Festive Flavors

With the combination of savory turkey, creamy cheese, and the bright sweetness of cranberry sauce, these pinwheels are like the perfect holiday meal wrapped in a tortilla. They bring all the cozy, festive vibes without any of the fuss.

Customizable

Feel free to add your own spin! You can add a little mustard or horseradish for a kick, or throw in some spinach or arugula for a fresh green touch.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to create these delicious pinwheels:

For the Pinwheels:

• Flour Tortillas: 4 large (the soft, pliable kind work best for easy rolling)
  The base for these pinwheels, holding all the delicious ingredients together.
• Turkey Breast: 1 cup, sliced (deli-style or leftover roasted turkey works great)
  The star of the pinwheels, providing a savory, lean protein that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the cranberry sauce.
• Cream Cheese: 4 oz, softened
  Adds a smooth, creamy texture to the pinwheels and helps hold everything together.
• Cheddar Cheese: 1/2 cup, shredded
  A sharp, creamy cheese that complements the turkey and cranberry combo wonderfully.
• Cranberry Sauce: 1/4 cup (homemade or store-bought)
  The secret ingredient that brings the sweetness and tang, making these pinwheels stand out.
• Spinach or Arugula: 1/2 cup (optional)
  Adds a fresh, slightly peppery crunch to the pinwheels and makes them even more festive.

For Garnish (Optional):

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons
  A touch of green for garnish, making the pinwheels look extra pretty.
• Cranberries: A few whole or dried cranberries for a little extra pop of color and flavor.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Spread

1. In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and cranberry sauce. Mix until smooth and well combined. This creamy spread will act as the glue that holds your pinwheels together.

Step 2: Assemble the Pinwheels

1. Lay a flour tortilla flat on a clean surface or cutting board.
2. Spread a generous amount of the cream cheese and cranberry mixture evenly across the tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Layer slices of turkey breast on top of the cranberry spread, ensuring the turkey covers the entire surface of the tortilla.
4. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the turkey.
5. If using, add a handful of fresh spinach or arugula to the tortilla for a pop of color and extra crunch.

Step 3: Roll and Slice

1. Carefully roll the tortilla tightly from one edge to the other, ensuring the filling stays in place.
2. Once fully rolled, slice the tortilla into 1-inch pinwheels. You should get about 6-8 pinwheels per tortilla, depending on the size.
3. Arrange the pinwheels on a platter and garnish with a little chopped parsley and cranberries, if desired.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Serve immediately as a delightful appetizer, or cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to serve. These pinwheels are just as delicious cold, making them perfect for make-ahead meals.

Nutrition Facts

Here’s an approximate breakdown for one pinwheel (assuming you make 8 pinwheels per tortilla):

• Calories: 120
• Total Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 20mg
• Sodium: 220mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 11g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 3g
• Protein: 6g
• Vitamin A: 6% of daily value
• Vitamin C: 2% of daily value
• Calcium: 6% of daily value
• Iron: 2% of daily value

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Assembly Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

How to Serve Turkey Cranberry Pinwheels

• Perfect for Appetizers: These pinwheels are great for parties, holiday dinners, or just casual snacking. Serve them with a side of extra cranberry sauce or mustard for dipping!
• Add a Side Salad: Pair these pinwheels with a simple green salad or a light fruit salad for a balanced lunch.
• Great for Lunchboxes: Pack these pinwheels in lunchboxes for a delicious and fun midday snack. They’re easy to transport and won’t get soggy!

Additional Tips

• Make-Ahead: These pinwheels are perfect for preparing ahead of time. Just store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day, and they’ll stay fresh and delicious.
• Use Leftover Turkey: If you’ve got leftover turkey from Thanksgiving or a roast, this is a great way to use it up in a fun and tasty way.
• Try Different Fillings: Mix it up by adding some mustard, a little sliced avocado, or even some crispy bacon for extra flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: If you need a gluten-free version, simply swap out the flour tortillas for a gluten-free alternative.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?
A1: Yes! These pinwheels can be made up to a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container in the fridge, and they’ll stay fresh.

Q2: Can I use a different cheese?
A2: Absolutely! If you don’t have cheddar cheese, you can use provolone, Swiss, or even a sharp gouda for a different flavor.

Q3: Can I add something spicy to these pinwheels?
A3: Yes! If you like a bit of spice, add some hot sauce, sliced jalapeños, or a dash of cayenne pepper to the cranberry cream cheese spread.

Q4: Are these pinwheels good for kids?
A4: Definitely! The combination of turkey and cranberry is kid-friendly and fun to eat, making them a great option for little ones.

Q5: Can I use store-bought cranberry sauce?
A5: Yes! Store-bought cranberry sauce works just fine, and it saves time. Just make sure to stir it well before mixing it with the cream cheese.

Q6: Can I make these pinwheels vegetarian?
A6: Yes! Simply swap out the turkey for some sliced cucumber or roasted vegetables, and you’ll have a vegetarian version that’s just as tasty.

Q7: How do I store leftovers?
A7: Store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day. They’re best enjoyed fresh, but still delicious the next day!

Q8: Can I freeze these pinwheels?
A8: While you can freeze them, the texture may change slightly after freezing and thawing. It’s best to enjoy them fresh, but you can freeze them for up to a month if needed.

Q9: Can I use whole wheat tortillas?
A9: Absolutely! Whole wheat tortillas are a great, healthier option and will still taste fantastic with the turkey and cranberry filling.

Q10: Can I add nuts to these pinwheels?
A10: Yes, you can add chopped pecans or walnuts for a bit of crunch and an extra layer of flavor. It’s a great twist if you’re looking for something unique!

Conclusion

These Turkey Cranberry Pinwheels are a festive, flavorful treat that’s easy to make and always a crowd favorite. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, packing them for lunch, or bringing them to a party, they’re sure to impress. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to combine the classic flavors of Thanksgiving into a fun and easy bite-sized snack. Go ahead—give them a try, and let the magic of turkey and cranberry roll right into your heart!

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