These Turkey Cranberry Pinwheels with Spinach & Herb Cream Cheese are an easy make-ahead appetizer filled with savory turkey, sweet-tart cranberry sauce, fresh spinach, and creamy herbs.
The combination of turkey and cranberry gives them classic holiday flavor, while the herb cream cheese keeps every bite rich and fresh.
They are simple to assemble, easy to slice, and ideal for Thanksgiving, Christmas parties, potlucks, lunch platters, or any gathering where you want an appetizer that can be prepared ahead.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- They require no baking.
- Turkey and cranberry create classic holiday flavor.
- Fresh spinach adds color and freshness.
- Herb cream cheese makes the filling rich and flavorful.
- They can be prepared ahead.
- The spiral slices look beautiful on party platters.
- They are easy to transport.
- They work well for Thanksgiving and Christmas entertaining.
Ingredients
For the Herb Cream Cheese
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh dill
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of salt
For the Pinwheels
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 12 oz thinly sliced roasted turkey
- ½ cup thick cranberry sauce or cranberry spread
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- Prepared herb cream cheese
Optional Additions
- Thinly sliced green onions
- Chopped toasted pecans
- Shredded mild cheddar
- Fresh arugula
- Extra cranberry sauce for serving
🍳 Step-by-Step Masterclass Instructions
Yield: 24 pinwheels
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Step 1: Prepare the Herb Cream Cheese
Add the softened cream cheese to a medium bowl.
Mix in the Greek yogurt or sour cream.
Add:
- Parsley
- Chives
- Dill
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Black pepper
- Salt
Stir until smooth and evenly combined.
Step 2: Soften the Tortillas
Place the tortillas at room temperature for several minutes.
If they feel stiff, microwave them for approximately 10 seconds between slightly damp paper towels.
Masterclass Tip: Flexible tortillas roll more tightly and are less likely to crack.
Step 3: Spread the Cream Cheese
Lay one tortilla flat on a clean work surface.
Spread a thin, even layer of herb cream cheese over the entire tortilla, leaving about ½ inch uncovered around the outer edge.
Step 4: Add the Cranberry Layer
Spread a thin layer of cranberry sauce over the cream cheese.
Do not use too much.
Masterclass Tip: A thick cranberry layer can make the pinwheels slippery and difficult to slice cleanly.
Step 5: Add the Turkey
Arrange several slices of turkey evenly over the tortilla.
Slightly overlap them so the filling is distributed from edge to edge.
Step 6: Add the Spinach
Place a thin layer of fresh baby spinach over the turkey.
Remove any very thick stems.
Step 7: Add Optional Crunch
If desired, sprinkle a small amount of chopped toasted pecans or green onions over the spinach.
Use only a light layer so the roll remains easy to shape.
Step 8: Roll Tightly
Starting from one edge, roll the tortilla firmly into a tight log.
Keep gentle pressure on the roll as you work.
Avoid squeezing so hard that the filling pushes out.
Step 9: Repeat
Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
Step 10: Wrap and Chill
Wrap each tortilla log tightly in plastic wrap or parchment.
Refrigerate for approximately 30 minutes.
Masterclass Tip: Chilling firms the cream cheese and makes the pinwheels much easier to slice neatly.
Step 11: Trim the Ends
Unwrap the chilled rolls.
Use a sharp serrated or chef’s knife to trim off the uneven ends.
Step 12: Slice the Pinwheels
Cut each roll into slices approximately ¾–1 inch thick.
Wipe the knife between cuts if needed.
Step 13: Arrange the Platter
Arrange the pinwheels cut-side up on a serving platter.
Place them in overlapping rows or a circular pattern.
Step 14: Add Garnishes
Add a few fresh cranberries, spinach leaves, parsley, or chives around the platter for a festive presentation.
Step 15: Serve
Serve chilled or slightly cool.
The finished pinwheels should have soft tortillas, savory turkey, sweet-tart cranberry, creamy herbs, and fresh spinach in every spiral bite.
🔒 Storage & Reheating Tips
Refrigerator: Store pinwheels in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Make ahead: Assemble the tortilla rolls up to 1 day ahead, keep them wrapped and refrigerated, then slice shortly before serving.
Best texture: Slice the pinwheels as close to serving time as practical so the tortillas stay fresh.
Avoid excess cranberry sauce: Too much moisture can soften the tortillas during storage.
Do not freeze: Freezing is not recommended because the cream cheese and spinach may change texture after thawing.
No reheating required: These pinwheels are designed to be served chilled or at cool room temperature.
Party tip: Keep them refrigerated until shortly before serving, especially for longer holiday gatherings.
