Cranberry Jalapeño Pinwheels
235
18
1.30k
Cranberry Jalapeño Pinwheels are a delightful blend of flavors that often catch people by surprise. With the creamy richness of cream cheese, the tart sweetness of dried cranberries, and a kick from fresh jalapeños, these pinwheels are a unique twist on a classic appetizer. I first made these for a holiday party, and they disappeared in minutes! They’re perfect for any gathering, holiday festivities, or even just for a quick, satisfying snack at home. You’ll find that this recipe is not only delicious but also simple to make, making it a fantastic option for those who want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.
Reasons to try it
What makes Cranberry Jalapeño Pinwheels truly special is their versatility. They’re not just an appetizer; they’re a delightful addition to a brunch spread or a conversation starter at your next gathering. This recipe is budget-friendly and can be whipped up in a matter of minutes, making it ideal for those busy weeknights or unexpected guests. Plus, kids love them! The combination of flavors creates a taste explosion that pleases both the adventurous and the picky eaters.
“These pinwheels were a hit at my last dinner party! Loved how the sweetness of the cranberries balanced out the jalapeño. Definitely making them again!” — Happy Home Cook
The cooking process explained
Making Cranberry Jalapeño Pinwheels is straightforward and enjoyable! The first thing to note is that this dish comes together in just a few steps. You’ll mix the creamy filling, spread it onto tortillas, roll them up, and chill. It’s as easy as that! This can be a fun activity for the family, allowing everyone to get hands-on in the kitchen.
What you’ll need
Here’s what you’ll need to create these delicious pinwheels:
- 1 block cream cheese (8 ounces) (at room temperature)
- 2 large garden spinach herb tortilla wraps (or large flour tortillas)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1 Tablespoon jalapeño, seeded and finely diced (add more if you like heat)
- 2 Tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
Feel free to swap the spinach herb tortillas with regular flour or whole wheat tortillas based on your preference!
Step-by-step instructions
-
Begin by combining the cream cheese, dried cranberries, finely diced jalapeño, and fresh chives in a large bowl. Mix until the ingredients are well blended to create a creamy, colorful filling.
-
With a clean flat surface, lay out your tortillas. Divide the mixture in half and evenly spread the first half of the mixture across one tortilla, making sure to go all the way to the edge.
-
Repeat the same process with the second tortilla.
-
Carefully roll each tortilla tightly from one end to the other.
-
Wrap them in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together and makes slicing easier.
Best ways to enjoy it
When it’s time to serve your Cranberry Jalapeño Pinwheels, slice them into bite-sized pieces for easy snacking. They pair beautifully with a fresh green salad or a simple dip, like a zesty ranch or a sweet chili sauce. For an extra festive touch, consider garnishing with a sprinkle of chives or pomegranate seeds to add a pop of color and flavor!
Keeping leftovers fresh
Storing your leftover pinwheels is simple! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. They can be safely kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to store them longer, you can freeze the uncut rolls before chilling. Just wrap the rolls in plastic wrap, then foil, and they’ll stay fresh for about a month.
Helpful cooking tips
- Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature to ensure easy mixing.
- Feel free to adjust the heat level by adding more jalapeño, or even substitute it with a milder pepper if you prefer less spice.
- For a fun twist, try adding crumbled feta cheese or diced bell peppers to the filling for added flavor and texture!
Creative twists
Want to mix things up? Here are a few variations to consider:
- Substitute the dried cranberries with chopped dried apricots for a unique flavor.
- Use flavored cream cheese, like garlic herb, to enhance the taste further.
- For a vegan option, substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based alternative and use whole grain tortillas.
Your questions answered
-
What is the prep time for these pinwheels?
Expect about 15 minutes of prep time, with an additional 30 minutes of chilling. -
Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make them a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. -
Are there any good substitutes for dried cranberries?
Yes! Chopped dates or raisins work well as sweet alternatives.
Enjoy your culinary adventure with these delicious Cranberry Jalapeño Pinwheels! They are sure to become a favorite in your household.
Cranberry Jalapeño Pinwheels
Ingredients
Method
- Combine the cream cheese, dried cranberries, finely diced jalapeño, and fresh chives in a large bowl and mix until well blended.
- Spread half of the mixture evenly across one tortilla, going all the way to the edge.
- Repeat the spreading process with the second tortilla.
- Carefully roll each tortilla tightly from one end to the other.
- Wrap the rolled tortillas in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
- Slice the chilled pinwheels into bite-sized pieces for easy snacking.
- Serve with a fresh green salad or a dip like zesty ranch or sweet chili sauce.
