Turkey Cranberry Pinwheels

These vibrant and flavorful Turkey Cranberry Pinwheels are the ultimate snackable bites—perfectly balancing creamy, savory, and sweet in every spiral. Whether you’re planning holiday appetizers, prepping for lunchboxes, or serving a crowd at a potluck, these colorful bites are always a hit. And best of all, they’re simple to make ahead with no cooking required.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Great Make-Ahead Option – Prep them in advance and slice when ready to serve.
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Holiday or Anytime Friendly – A festive appetizer that also fits into everyday snacking.
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Perfectly Balanced Flavors – Creamy cheese, savory turkey, sweet cranberries, and fresh greens all in one bite.
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Kid & Party Approved – Bite-sized and easy to grab, these are ideal for gatherings or picky eaters.
Ingredients
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4 large flour tortillas
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
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¼ cup mayonnaise (optional)
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1 cup cooked turkey breast, sliced or chopped
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½ cup dried cranberries
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¼ cup chopped green onions
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½ cup baby spinach leaves
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Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
Step 1: In a medium bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise (if using), chopped green onions, salt, and pepper until smooth and spreadable.
Step 2: Lay each tortilla flat on a clean surface and evenly spread a layer of the cream cheese mixture over the entire surface.
Step 3: Top each tortilla with a layer of spinach leaves, followed by turkey slices and a sprinkle of dried cranberries.
Step 4: Roll each tortilla up tightly from edge to edge, pressing gently to keep the filling in place.
Step 5: Wrap each rolled tortilla in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Step 6: Just before serving, unwrap and slice each roll into 1-inch pinwheels using a sharp knife.
Serving Ideas
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Arrange them on a platter with a few extra cranberries or spinach leaves for garnish.
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Serve with a small bowl of honey mustard or cranberry dipping sauce.
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Add to a charcuterie board for variety and color.
Tips & Variations
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Swap the Meat: Use ham or roast chicken instead of turkey if needed.
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Add Texture: Toss in chopped walnuts or pecans for a bit of crunch.
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Go Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free tortillas to accommodate dietary needs.
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Make It Sweeter: Drizzle with a touch of honey or use cranberry chutney in the filling for extra holiday flair.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these pinwheels the night before?
Yes! Prepare, roll, and refrigerate the pinwheels up to 24 hours in advance. Slice them just before serving to keep the edges fresh.
What kind of turkey works best?
Leftover roast turkey or sliced deli turkey both work well. Just avoid varieties that are too wet or thin, as they may cause soggy tortillas.
How do I keep them from unrolling?
Chilling them before slicing helps them hold their shape. Also, be sure to roll the tortillas tightly and press gently as you go.
Can I freeze turkey cranberry pinwheels?
Freezing is not recommended, as the cream cheese and tortillas can become soggy or grainy when thawed.
Final Thoughts
Turkey Cranberry Pinwheels are a fresh, flavorful, and festive snack that comes together in minutes. Whether you’re using up holiday leftovers or looking for a cheerful addition to your lunch routine, these pinwheels offer a satisfying bite of creamy, savory, and sweet. Easy to prep and easy to love—this recipe is a go-to crowd-pleaser year-round.