As the holiday season approaches, the air fills with delightful scents of cinnamon and evergreen. It’s that joyous time of year when gathering around a festive table becomes a cherished tradition. Imagine the laughter of family and friends mingling with the warm glow of twinkling lights. These Christmas Cranberry Pinwheels are a perfect blend of sweetness and crunch, capturing the essence of the holidays in every bite.
Why make this recipe
These pinwheels are not just treats; they’re edible declarations of love, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy evenings by the fire. With vibrant cranberries and rich cream cheese enveloped in soft tortillas, each pinwheel offers a delightful burst of flavor and texture. Plus, they’re simple to prepare, making them a wonderful choice for both seasoned cooks and kitchen novices alike. Your loved ones will be reaching for seconds and thirds!
How to make Christmas Cranberry Pinwheels
Creating these festive pinwheels is straightforward and oh-so-rewarding.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- 4 large flour tortillas
- Fresh parsley or mint for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- In a mixing bowl, blend the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. The aroma of vanilla will instantly lift your spirits!
- Stir in the chopped cranberries and pecans, folding them gently into the mixture for that irresistible crunch.
- Spread the luscious cream cheese mixture evenly on each tortilla, ensuring it reaches the edges for maximum flavor.
- Roll the tortillas up tightly, securing all that delicious filling inside.
- Wrap them in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This chilling step allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Once chilled, slice the rolls into delightful pinwheels, showcasing a pop of red and green that screams holiday cheer. Serve garnished with fresh parsley or mint for an extra touch!
How to serve Christmas Cranberry Pinwheels
These pinwheels can be served as a delightful appetizer or dessert. Arranging them on a festive platter will not only impress your guests but also bring a joyous splash of color to your holiday table. Pair them with a steaming cup of cocoa or some mulled wine for a winning combination.
How to store Christmas Cranberry Pinwheels
If you happen to have leftovers (which is unlikely), store the pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to three days, although their freshness is best enjoyed the day after they’re made.
Tips to make Christmas Cranberry Pinwheels
- For a touch of added flavor, consider using flavored cream cheese — cranberry or almond both work beautifully.
- If cranberries are hard to come by, feel free to substitute with other dried fruits such as cherries or apricots!
- To make them more festive, roll the tortillas in colored sugar before spreading the cream mixture to add extra sparkle.
Variations
You can get creative with this recipe! Add in finely chopped apples for a fresh crunch, or try swapping out pecans with walnuts or almonds for a slightly different flavor profile. The possibilities are endless!
FAQs
1. Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?
Absolutely! These pinwheels can be made a day in advance; just ensure to keep them tightly wrapped in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
2. Are these pinwheels gluten-free?
You can easily make these gluten-free by using gluten-free tortillas, which will work just as well in this recipe!
3. Can I freeze Christmas Cranberry Pinwheels?
While freezing is an option, it’s best to enjoy them fresh. If you must freeze, wrap them tightly and consume within a month. Thaw in the fridge before slicing and serving.
As you prepare to delight your guests with these Christmas Cranberry Pinwheels, remember that the true joy of cooking lies not just in the finished dish, but in the memories you create around the table. Embrace the magic of the season and let your culinary creativity shine—happy holidays!
Christmas Cranberry Pinwheels
Ingredients
Method
- In a mixing bowl, blend the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Stir in the chopped cranberries and pecans, folding them gently into the mixture.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly on each tortilla.
- Roll the tortillas up tightly and wrap them in plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Once chilled, slice the rolls into pinwheels.