Simplified Turkey Cranberry Pinwheels

Featured in: Autumn Comforts

These pinwheels combine soft flour tortillas with a smooth mixture of cream cheese and mayonnaise, layered with tender turkey slices, tangy cranberries, and fresh spinach. Rolled tightly and chilled, they offer a refreshing and easy-to-prepare starter perfect for festive occasions or casual gatherings.

Optional additions like chives or wholegrain mustard enhance the flavors, while substitutions such as arugula or whole wheat tortillas provide variations to suit different tastes and dietary needs.

Updated on Tue, 25 Nov 2025 11:41:00 GMT
A platter of vibrant Turkey Cranberry Pinwheels, a perfect party appetizer ready to enjoy. Save
A platter of vibrant Turkey Cranberry Pinwheels, a perfect party appetizer ready to enjoy. | pumpkinvale.com

A festive and easy appetizer featuring tender turkey, tangy cream cheese, and sweet cranberries wrapped in a soft flour tortilla.

This recipe quickly became a family favorite at holiday gatherings and is always a hit with guests looking for a light but flavorful bite.

Ingredients

  • 225 g (8 oz) cream cheese: softened
  • 2 tbsp mayonnaise:
  • 1 tbsp fresh chives: finely chopped (optional)
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper:
  • 4 large flour tortillas: (25 cm / 10-inch)
  • 200 g (7 oz) sliced cooked turkey breast:
  • 80 g (1/2 cup) dried cranberries: roughly chopped
  • 60 g (2 cups) baby spinach leaves: washed and dried

Instructions

Step 1:
In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, chives, and black pepper until smooth.
Step 2:
Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface. Evenly spread about a quarter of the cream cheese mixture over the tortilla, right to the edges.
Step 3:
Arrange sliced turkey evenly over the cream cheese layer.
Step 4:
Sprinkle a quarter of the chopped cranberries over the turkey, then add a layer of spinach leaves.
Step 5:
Roll the tortilla up tightly from one edge to form a log.
Step 6:
Repeat with the remaining tortillas and fillings.
Step 7:
Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up (optional but recommended).
Step 8:
Unwrap and slice each roll into 2 cm (3/4-inch) pinwheels. Discard or snack on the ends for neat presentation.
Step 9:
Arrange pinwheels on a platter and serve chilled.
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My family especially enjoys these pinwheels during festive occasions, and the kids love helping to assemble the rolls.

Notes

For extra flavor, try adding a thin layer of wholegrain mustard or a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese.

Required Tools

Mixing bowl, spatula or spoon, knife, cutting board, plastic wrap

Allergen Information

Contains Wheat (tortillas), Milk (cream cheese, mayonnaise), Egg (mayonnaise depending on brand). Check all labels for hidden allergens if serving to those with sensitivities.

Close-up of freshly sliced Turkey Cranberry Pinwheels, showcasing turkey, cranberry, and creamy filling. Save
Close-up of freshly sliced Turkey Cranberry Pinwheels, showcasing turkey, cranberry, and creamy filling. | pumpkinvale.com

These turkey cranberry pinwheels are perfect for any party or quick snack, combining simple ingredients for a delicious result.

Recipe FAQs

Can I prepare the pinwheels ahead of time?

Yes, wrapping them tightly and refrigerating for up to 24 hours helps flavors meld and makes slicing easier.

What can I substitute for cream cheese?

Soft goat cheese or mascarpone can be used for a different creamy texture and flavor.

How do I keep the pinwheels from unraveling?

Rolling tightly and chilling in plastic wrap helps firm them, making slicing neat and easy.

Can I add other greens besides spinach?

Arugula or baby kale provide a peppery bite and work well as alternatives.

Are there ways to add more flavor to these pinwheels?

Adding a thin spread of wholegrain mustard or sprinkling crumbled feta cheese adds depth and zest.

Simplified Turkey Cranberry Pinwheels

Soft tortillas filled with turkey, cranberries, cream cheese, and spinach for a quick, tasty bite.

Prep Time
15 minutes
0
Time Needed
15 minutes
Created by Emma Wallace

Recipe Type Autumn Comforts

Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Type American

Makes 5 Serving Size

Diet Information None specified

Ingredient List

Filling

01 8 oz cream cheese, softened
02 2 tbsp mayonnaise
03 1 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped
04 1/4 tsp ground black pepper

Main

01 4 large flour tortillas (10-inch)
02 7 oz sliced cooked turkey breast
03 1/2 cup dried cranberries, roughly chopped
04 2 cups baby spinach leaves, washed and dried

How to Make

Step 01

Prepare filling mixture: In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, chopped chives, and black pepper until smooth.

Step 02

Spread filling on tortilla: Lay one tortilla flat on a clean surface and evenly spread one quarter of the cream cheese mixture over it, covering to the edges.

Step 03

Layer turkey: Place sliced turkey breast evenly over the cream cheese layer.

Step 04

Add cranberries and spinach: Sprinkle one quarter of the chopped cranberries over the turkey, then top with a layer of baby spinach leaves.

Step 05

Roll tortilla: Roll the tortilla tightly from one edge to form a log, ensuring the filling is secure.

Step 06

Repeat with remaining ingredients: Repeat spreading, layering, and rolling with the remaining tortillas and filling portions.

Step 07

Chill rolls: Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up, improving sliceability.

Step 08

Slice into pinwheels: Unwrap each roll and cut into 3/4-inch thick pinwheels, trimming ends for uniform appearance if desired.

Step 09

Serve chilled: Arrange pinwheels on a platter and serve chilled as an appetizer.

Equipment Needed

  • Mixing bowl
  • Spatula or spoon
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Plastic wrap

Allergy Details

Review ingredients for allergens and ask a healthcare expert if unsure.
  • Contains wheat (tortillas), milk (cream cheese, mayonnaise), and possibly egg (mayonnaise)

Nutritional Breakdown (per serving)

Details shown are for general guidance and aren't a medical substitute.
  • Caloric Content: 70
  • Fats: 3.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 7 g
  • Proteins: 3 g