Christmas Pinwheels

Oh wow. These Christmas Pinwheels look so fun. The colors pop and feel like Christmas right away.

I love how soft and sweet they are. Each swirl makes me smile, and yeah, they feel festive.

I always want to grab another bite. They taste cozy, bright, and full of holiday joy.

So let’s make them together. Trust me, these Christmas Pinwheels are perfect for the season.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive Appeal: The red and green colors of the filling against the spinach tortillas are a nod to the holiday season.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Creamy, savory, and packed with flavor, these pinwheels are loved by adults and kids alike.
• Quick and Easy: No cooking required, making this a stress-free appetizer.
• Customizable: You can adapt the filling to suit your taste or dietary needs.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare them a day in advance, and they’re ready to serve when needed.

Required Kitchen Tools

To make these Christmas Pinwheels, you’ll need:

• Mixing Bowl: For combining the ingredients.
• Spatula: To mix and spread the filling evenly.
• Knife: For slicing the pinwheels.
• Plastic Wrap: To help the pinwheels hold their shape while chilling.
• Cutting Board: For safe and easy slicing.

Ingredients

Here’s what you need to create this festive appetizer (exact measurements in the recipe card below):

• Cream Cheese: Use softened cream cheese for easy mixing and a creamy texture.
• Ranch Dressing Mix: Adds a savory, tangy kick to the filling.
• Red Bell Pepper: Diced finely for a sweet crunch and vibrant red color.
• Celery: Minced for a crisp texture.
• Green Onions: Diced for a mild onion flavor.
• Pimiento-Stuffed Olives: Sliced for a tangy, briny burst of flavor.
• Spinach Flour Tortillas: The green hue complements the red filling, making the pinwheels visually stunning.

Variations for Christmas Pinwheels

• Add Protein: Incorporate shredded chicken or turkey for a heartier appetizer.
• Cheese Lovers’ Delight: Mix in shredded cheddar or Parmesan for extra cheesiness.
• Spicy Twist: Add a dash of hot sauce or diced jalapeños to the filling.
• Vegetarian: Omit the olives and replace them with sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free tortillas to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and ranch dressing mix. Stir until well blended and smooth.
2. Fold in the red bell pepper, celery, green onions, and pimiento-stuffed olives. Mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

2. Assemble the Pinwheels

1. Lay a spinach tortilla flat on a clean surface.
2. Spread a generous layer of the cream cheese mixture evenly across the entire surface of the tortilla, leaving about 1/2 inch of space around the edges.
3. Roll the tortilla tightly into a log shape. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.

3. Chill the Rolls

1. Wrap each rolled tortilla in plastic wrap to help it maintain its shape.
2. Place the wrapped rolls in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or up to 24 hours for maximum convenience.

4. Slice and Serve

1. Remove the plastic wrap from the tortilla rolls.
2. Using a sharp knife, slice each roll into 1-inch thick pinwheels.
3. Arrange the pinwheels on a festive serving platter. Garnish with sprigs of parsley or rosemary for an extra holiday touch.

Serving and Decoration

Christmas Pinwheels look best when presented on a colorful platter or wooden board. Sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary around the plate for added freshness. If desired, pair the pinwheels with dipping sauces like ranch, marinara, or a tangy cranberry relish for an extra layer of flavor.

Storing Christmas Pinwheels

• Refrigeration: Store prepared pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: While not recommended due to the cream cheese filling, you can freeze uncut rolls tightly wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before slicing.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Per Serving (2 Pinwheels)
Calories	150
Protein	3g
Carbohydrates	12g
Fat	10g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	250mg

Conclusion

Christmas Pinwheels are a surefire way to impress your guests with minimal effort. Their vibrant colors, creamy filling, and savory crunch make them an unforgettable addition to any holiday spread. Plus, the ease of preparation and versatility make them a go-to appetizer for any festive occasion. Make these pinwheels part of your holiday tradition, and watch them disappear from the platter in no time!