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Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Pecans Recipe

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3.9 from 39 reviews

Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Pecans are a delightful and festive appetizer featuring a creamy, tangy filling of cream cheese, dried cranberries, orange zest, and a hint of sweetness, all rolled up in soft flour tortillas and topped with crunchy pecans. Chilled until firm, these bite-sized treats offer a perfect balance of flavors and textures, ideal for parties, holiday gatherings, or a light snack.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients

Filling

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
  • 1/4 cup orange juice
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 tablespoon honey (optional)

Assembly

  • 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
  • 4 large flour tortillas

Instructions

  1. Mix the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped dried cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, and a pinch of salt. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and creamy. If you prefer a sweeter filling, add honey and mix well.
  2. Assemble the Pinwheels: Lay one flour tortilla flat on a clean, dry surface. Spread a generous and even layer of the cream cheese mixture over the tortilla, leaving about 1/2 inch of space around the edges to prevent overflow when rolling.
  3. Add the Crunch: Evenly sprinkle the chopped pecans on top of the cream cheese layer. Press them lightly into the filling to help them stick and ensure every bite has a crunchy texture.
  4. Roll and Chill: Starting from one edge, carefully and tightly roll the tortilla into a log shape, making sure to keep the filling inside. Repeat this rolling process with the remaining tortillas and filling. Wrap each rolled tortilla tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up and meld the flavors.
  5. Slice and Serve: After chilling, unwrap each roll and slice into 1-inch wide pinwheels using a sharp knife. Arrange the colorful pinwheels on a serving platter, and serve chilled as a festive appetizer or snack.

Notes

  • For added flavor, try toasting the pecans lightly before chopping.
  • These pinwheels can be made up to 6 hours in advance and kept refrigerated until serving.
  • Use whole wheat or gluten-free tortillas if you prefer a healthier or gluten-free option.
  • Substitute dried cranberries with dried cherries or raisins for variation.
  • Omit honey for a less sweet and more tangy filling.
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian