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Orange Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels Recipe

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4.1 from 6 reviews

These Orange Cranberry Pinwheels are a delightful and colorful appetizer combining creamy garlic cream cheese with tangy dried cranberries and fresh green onions, all brightened with fresh orange juice and zest. Perfect for parties or a light snack, they offer a sweet and savory flavor profile wrapped in soft tortillas.

  • Author: Chef
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings (approximately 40-50 pinwheel pieces)
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Tortilla Base

  • 4 soft flour tortillas (or whole wheat tortillas)

Cream Cheese Spread

  • 2 8 oz packages cream cheese (softened; light cream cheese can be used)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic salt
  • 1 teaspoon fresh squeezed orange juice (from 1 orange)

Filling

  • 1 cup dried orange cranberries
  • 2 bunches diced green onions

Garnish

  • Fresh orange zest (from 1 orange)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cream cheese spread: In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with the garlic salt until well blended. Add 1 teaspoon of freshly squeezed orange juice to incorporate a subtle citrus flavor into the mixture.
  2. Spread and layer the filling: Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over each of the tortillas. In a separate small bowl, combine the dried orange cranberries and diced green onions, then sprinkle this mixture over the cream cheese spread. Lightly press the cranberry and onion mixture into the cream cheese to help it adhere.
  3. Roll and slice the pinwheels: Carefully roll up each tortilla tightly, trimming off the ends for even pieces. Using a serrated knife, cut each rolled tortilla into approximately 10 equal slices. Arrange the pinwheels on a serving platter.
  4. Garnish and serve: Finish by garnishing the pinwheels with fresh orange zest for a pop of color and extra citrus aroma. Serve immediately or refrigerate briefly before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Notes

  • Use light cream cheese if you prefer a lower-fat option.
  • The tortillas can be substituted with whole wheat or gluten-free varieties if desired.
  • Chilling the rolled tortillas for 15-30 minutes before slicing can make cutting easier and neater.
  • For a slightly sweeter bite, consider adding a drizzle of honey over the cream cheese before adding the cranberry mixture.
  • These pinwheels are best served fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day.