Simplified Turkey Cranberry Pinwheels

Featured in: Snack Time Bites

These turkey and cranberry pinwheels combine tender turkey breast, tangy cream cheese, and sweet dried cranberries wrapped in soft flour tortillas. A layer of fresh spinach adds a mild, leafy contrast, while a hint of mayonnaise and chives enhances the creamy filling. Chilling before slicing helps maintain shape and flavor. Ideal as a quick, colorful appetizer or light snack with a balance of savory and sweet notes.

Updated on Tue, 25 Nov 2025 12:10:00 GMT
Golden, spiral cuts of Simplified Turkey Cranberry Pinwheels, ready to serve for a holiday gathering. Save to Pinterest
Golden, spiral cuts of Simplified Turkey Cranberry Pinwheels, ready to serve for a holiday gathering. | recipesbies.com

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

This recipe is a family favorite during the holidays and always gets rave reviews at parties.

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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| recipesbies.com

These pinwheels always bring everyone together, making holiday gatherings even more special.

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.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 70 per pinwheel, Total Fat: 3.5 g, Carbohydrates: 7 g, Protein: 3 g

Freshly sliced Simplified Turkey Cranberry Pinwheels revealing a creamy, cranberry-filled interior with hints of spinach. Save to Pinterest
Freshly sliced Simplified Turkey Cranberry Pinwheels revealing a creamy, cranberry-filled interior with hints of spinach. | recipesbies.com

Enjoy these vibrant pinwheels as a festive appetizer that is both delicious and easy to prepare.

Answers to Recipe Questions

Can I prepare the pinwheels in advance?

Yes, they can be made up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerated to maintain freshness and firmness.

What can I substitute for spinach?

Try arugula for a peppery flavor or baby kale for a heartier texture.

Is there an alternative to flour tortillas?

Whole wheat or gluten-free tortillas work well and add different textures and flavors.

How do I keep the pinwheels from falling apart?

Chilling the wrapped rolls for at least 30 minutes helps them firm up, making slicing easy and neat.

Can I add extra flavor to the filling?

A thin spread of wholegrain mustard or a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese can enhance the taste.

Simplified Turkey Cranberry Pinwheels

Tender turkey, cream cheese, and cranberries wrapped in soft tortillas for an easy festive dish.

Prep duration
15 mins
0
Overall time
15 mins
Published by Sophie Turner


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Type American

Serves 5 Serving size

Dietary Details None specified

What you need

Filling

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

Main

01 4 large flour tortillas, 10-inch diameter
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 It

Step 01

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

Step 02

Spread filling on tortilla: Lay one tortilla flat and evenly spread approximately one quarter of the cream cheese mixture over the entire surface.

Step 03

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

Step 04

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

Step 05

Roll tortilla: Roll the tortilla tightly from one edge to form a firm log.

Step 06

Repeat assembly: Repeat the spreading, layering, and rolling steps with the remaining tortillas and fillings.

Step 07

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

Step 08

Slice into pinwheels: Unwrap rolls and slice into 3/4-inch thick pinwheels; discard or consume the ends for neatness.

Step 09

Serve: Arrange pinwheels on a platter and serve chilled.

Equipment You'll Need

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

Allergy Details

Review all ingredients for allergens, and reach out to a healthcare pro if unsure.
  • Contains wheat (tortillas), milk (cream cheese, mayonnaise), and potential egg (mayonnaise, depending on brand).

Nutrition info (by portion)

Nutrition info is for guidance. Please consult a medical expert if you need advice.
  • Total Calories: 70
  • Fat content: 3.5 g
  • Carbohydrate: 7 g
  • Protein content: 3 g