Christmas Cranberry Pinwheels

Christmas is a magical time of the year. It brings friends and family together to celebrate. One of the best ways to add joy to any gathering is with delicious treats. One such treat that will make your holiday gatherings special is Christmas Cranberry Pinwheels. These tasty snacks are so easy to make. They look beautiful and taste amazing. No one can resist their creamy filling and bright colors.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

You will love Christmas Cranberry Pinwheels for many reasons. First, they are simple to prepare. You can whip them up in just a short time. Even if you are a beginner in the kitchen, you can follow this recipe easily.

Second, they are a crowd-pleaser. Who doesn’t enjoy a sweet treat? The combination of cream cheese, dried cranberries, and walnuts gives these pinwheels a unique flavor. Plus, they are festive! The red cranberries stand out against the creamy filling and tortilla.

Finally, you can make them ahead of time. This allows you to enjoy your special moments with family and friends without being stuck in the kitchen. You can bring a plate of these pinwheels to any holiday party or gathering, and they will surely impress everyone.

HOW TO MAKE Christmas Cranberry Pinwheels

Making Christmas Cranberry Pinwheels is very straightforward. The recipe uses common ingredients that you may already have in your kitchen. Let’s take a closer look at what you will need and how to create this treat.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

Before you start, gather the following equipment:

• Mixing bowl
• Spoon or spatula
• Plastic wrap
• Knife cutting board
• Serving plate

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup dried cranberries, chopped
• 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
• 1 large flour tortilla
• Red sugar sprinkles (optional)

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

1. Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This will be the base of your filling.
2. Add the Goodies: Stir in the chopped dried cranberries and walnuts. Make sure everything is mixed well.
3. Spread on Tortilla: Take the large flour tortilla and spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the entire surface.
4. Roll it Up: Carefully roll the tortilla tightly from one edge to the other, creating a log shape. Try to keep it even as you roll.
5. Wrap and Chill: Wrap the rolled tortilla in plastic wrap. Place it in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 1 hour. This step helps the flavors blend together and makes it easier to slice.
6. Slice and Serve: After chilling, unwrap the tortilla log and use a sharp knife to slice it into pinwheels. Each slice should be about 1 inch thick. If you like, you can sprinkle red sugar on top before serving for a festive touch.

 

HOW TO SERVE Christmas Cranberry Pinwheels

You can serve these pinwheels as an appetizer or a dessert. They are perfect for parties, family gatherings, or even a simple snack at home. Arrange the pinwheels on a nice plate and look how lovely they appear. If you sprinkled red sugar on them, they will look even more festive!

You can also pair these pinwheels with other treats. Cheese and crackers or fresh fruit are great companions. They can even serve as a beautiful centerpiece on a holiday table.

STORAGE & FREEZING: Christmas Cranberry Pinwheels

If you have leftovers, don’t worry! You can store the pinwheels in the refrigerator. Keep them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to separate the layers with parchment paper to keep them from sticking together.

If you want to make them ahead of time, you can also freeze the rolled tortilla log before slicing. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. You can store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat them, just thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then slice and serve.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

Here are a few more ideas on how to serve Christmas Cranberry Pinwheels:

• With Dips: You can serve them with a cream cheese dip or a fruit dip for extra flavor.
• On a Charcuterie Board: Add to a festive cheese board with meats, other cheeses, and fruits.
• For Brunch: Serve with coffee or hot chocolate for a delightful brunch treat.
• As Gifts: Pack a few pinwheels in a clear bag with a ribbon to give to friends or family.

VARIATIONS

Feel free to get creative! Here are some fun ways to change up the recipe:

• Add Different Nuts: Instead of walnuts, try pecans or almonds for a different crunch.
• Use Fresh Fruit: Mix in some chopped apples or pears for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Make it a Savory Treat: Add diced bell peppers or spinach for a savory twist.
• Switch the Sugar: If you’re watching your sugar intake, you can use a sugar substitute in place of powdered sugar.

FAQs

1. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes! Low-fat cream cheese can be used in this recipe if you prefer a lighter option.

2. How can I chop cranberries easily?

To chop dried cranberries easily, use kitchen scissors. This makes the process quick and mess-free.

3. Can I make these pinwheels dairy-free?

Certainly! Use a dairy-free cream cheese substitute to make the recipe fit your dietary needs.

4. How early can I make these pinwheels?

You can make them up to 2 days in advance. Just store them properly in the fridge.

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Christmas Cranberry Pinwheels

Planning ahead is key, especially during the holidays. Here are some helpful tips for making your Christmas Cranberry Pinwheels ahead of time:

• Prep the Filling: Make the cream cheese mixture and store it in the refrigerator for a day before you need it. When you’re ready, just spread it on the tortilla and roll.
• Roll And Wrap: Make the rolls and freeze them ahead of time. Thaw them in the fridge the day before serving.
• Slice Just Before Serving: For the freshest taste, slice the pinwheels just before serving. This keeps them looking beautiful and fresh.

With a little planning, you can serve these delightful Christmas Cranberry Pinwheels with ease and enjoy your holiday without stress!

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