Turkey Cranberry Pinwheels

These Turkey Cranberry Pinwheels are a festive, easy-to-make appetizer or lunch that combines sweet, savory, and creamy flavors in every bite. With layers of tender turkey, cream cheese, tart cranberry sauce, and fresh spinach all rolled into soft tortillas, they’re perfect for holiday gatherings, lunch boxes, or anytime I want a no-fuss, make-ahead snack that looks just as good as it tastes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love these pinwheels because they’re flavorful, simple, and incredibly versatile. They take just minutes to assemble, hold up well in the fridge, and are always a hit at parties. The creamy, tangy cranberry and cream cheese spread pairs perfectly with the turkey, and the spinach adds a fresh, crisp touch. I can slice them thick for sandwiches or thinner for bite-sized appetizers.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Soft flour tortillas (10-inch)

• Sliced deli turkey

• Cream cheese (softened)

• Whole berry cranberry sauce or cranberry relish

• Fresh baby spinach or arugula

• Salt and black pepper (optional)

• Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch, or a dash of Dijon mustard for tang

Directions

1. I start by mixing the softened cream cheese with cranberry sauce in a bowl until smooth and spreadable.

2. I lay out a tortilla and spread a generous layer of the cranberry-cream cheese mixture evenly across it.

3. I layer sliced turkey over the spread, then add a handful of fresh spinach or arugula.

4. I roll the tortilla up tightly from one end to the other, then wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.

5. I slice the roll into 1-inch pinwheels and arrange them on a serving platter, ready to go.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 24 pinwheels (from 2 large tortillas).
Prep time: 10 minutes
Chill time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

When I want a little crunch, I sprinkle in chopped nuts before rolling. I’ve also added a layer of sharp cheddar or Swiss cheese for a richer bite. For a low-carb version, I use spinach wraps or large lettuce leaves instead of flour tortillas. And during the holidays, I love swapping in leftover roast turkey and homemade cranberry sauce.

storage/reheating

I store these pinwheels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. They’re best served cold or at room temperature, so I don’t reheat them. If making them ahead, I keep them whole and slice them just before serving to keep the edges fresh.

FAQs

Can I make these the night before?

Yes, I often make the rolls ahead, wrap them tightly, and slice them just before serving. They hold their shape better that way.

What’s the best tortilla to use?

I use large, soft flour tortillas. Flavored wraps like spinach or tomato also work and add extra color.

Can I use leftover turkey instead of deli slices?

Absolutely. Leftover roasted turkey works great and adds a more rustic, homemade flavor.

What’s the best cranberry sauce for this?

I prefer whole berry cranberry sauce or a chunky cranberry relish — it adds more texture and flavor than the jellied kind.

Can I freeze these?

I don’t recommend freezing them, as the cream cheese and greens can become watery and lose their texture after thawing.

Conclusion

These Turkey Cranberry Pinwheels are the kind of snack I can count on for flavor, ease, and presentation. Whether I’m making them for the holidays, a potluck, or just a quick meal prep lunch, they always hit the spot. With creamy, savory, and tart layers rolled into every bite, they’re the perfect combo of festive and satisfying.