These spicy turkey and cranberry pinwheels are a tasty way to mix flavors! They combine savory turkey with a kick of spice and sweet cranberry wrapped in a soft tortilla.
They’re perfect for lunch or a fun snack, and honestly, they disappear fast at parties! I love making a big batch and enjoying them throughout the week. Who can resist a delicious, easy bite? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flour Tortillas: I use large flour tortillas for easy rolling. If you want a healthier option, whole wheat or spinach tortillas work great too. You can even use gluten-free tortillas if that’s your preference!
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese is essential for spreading easily. If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, try Greek yogurt or low-fat cream cheese. Both provide a similar creamy texture with less fat.
Cranberry Sauce: I love using whole berry cranberry sauce for its texture. If you can’t find it, homemade cranberry sauce is a fun alternative, or even apple sauce can work in a pinch for a sweeter take!
Deli Turkey: Sliced deli turkey is the star here, but any cooked turkey (like leftover roast turkey) can be used. For a vegetarian option, consider replacing the turkey with roasted veggies or hummus.
Hot Sauce: My go-to is a classic hot sauce, but feel free to switch it up! Sriracha can add a unique twist, or you could use a milder sauce if you’re cooking for kids.
How Do I Get Perfectly Rolled Pinwheels?
Rolling the tortillas tightly is key for neat pinwheels. Here’s how to do it right:
- After adding all ingredients, start at one edge of the tortilla. Use your fingers to hold the filling in place while you begin to roll.
- Roll tightly and make sure the filling stays inside. If it’s too loose, the pinwheels might fall apart.
- Once fully rolled, make sure to wrap it securely in plastic wrap to help maintain its shape during refrigeration.
After refrigerating, using a sharp knife will help you get cleaner cuts when slicing. Enjoy your perfectly rolled pinwheels!
Spicy Turkey and Cranberry Pinwheels
Ingredients:
For the Pinwheels:
- 4 large flour tortillas (10-inch size)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (whole berry or chunky)
- 6 oz sliced deli turkey breast
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1-2 tsp hot sauce (adjust to taste for spiciness)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill or parsley (optional for freshness)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions or chives
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 1 hour to chill in the refrigerator. The chilling helps the flavors meld together and firms up the pinwheels so they slice easily. Total time around 1 hour and 15 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Spicy Cream Cheese:
In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with hot sauce. Use a fork or a mixer to blend until smooth and spicy. Adjust the hot sauce to taste—make it as spicy or mild as you like!
2. Assemble the Tortillas:
Lay the tortillas flat on a clean surface, making sure they are not overlapping. Then, spread an even layer of the spicy cream cheese mixture over each tortilla. Leave a small border around the edges to prevent overflow when rolling.
3. Layer the Ingredients:
Now, add a thin layer of cranberry sauce over the cream cheese on each tortilla. Next, arrange the sliced turkey evenly on top, followed by a sprinkle of shredded cheddar, chopped green onions, and any fresh herbs you’re using.
4. Roll it Up:
Begin rolling each tortilla from one end to the other, keeping it as tight as possible. Once rolled up, the filling should stay securely inside. Hold the roll gently to make sure nothing spills out.
5. Chill and Slice:
Wrap the rolled tortillas in plastic wrap to keep them tight. Place them in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to firm up. When ready to serve, remove from the fridge and slice each roll into 1-inch thick pinwheels.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Arrange the slices on a serving platter. Feel free to garnish with extra dill or parsley for a fresh touch. These pinwheels are great served cold or at room temperature—perfect for parties or snack time!
Enjoy these colorful and flavorful pinwheels as a fun appetizer or snack packed with a blend of spicy, savory turkey and sweet cranberry!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Tortillas Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat tortillas are a healthy alternative and will work perfectly in this recipe. They add a nice nutty flavor to the pinwheels.
Can I Make These Pinwheels Vegetarian?
Yes, you can! Simply replace the deli turkey with roasted vegetables, hummus, or even a fresh spinach blend. You can modify the spicy cream cheese with roasted red pepper or more herbs for added flavor.
How to Store Leftover Pinwheels?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain freshness, it’s best to slice them right before serving. Before eating, you can let them sit out for a few minutes to bring them to room temperature.
Can I Prep These Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the pinwheels up to 24 hours in advance. Just roll them up and leave them wrapped in plastic wrap in the fridge. Slice them right before serving to keep them looking fresh.
