Kenda’s Thanksgiving Pinwheel Roll-Ups: A Crowd-Pleasing Appetizer

The aroma of Thanksgiving is a symphony of spices, roasted meats, and the comforting sweetness of baked goods. But before the grand feast truly begins, there’s the crucial prelude: the appetizers. I vividly remember Kenda’s Thanksgiving Pinwheel Roll-Ups gracing the table at my parents’ 50th-anniversary party. They were an instant sensation, disappearing almost as quickly as they were placed down. Guests, captivated by their vibrant flavors and elegant presentation, clamored for the recipe, a testament to their undeniable deliciousness.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Chill Time: 4 hours
• Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
• Servings: 32 roll-ups (approximately)
• Yield: 32 roll-ups
• Dietary Type: Adaptable (can be made vegetarian by omitting turkey)

Ingredients

• 40 inches flour tortillas
• 8 slices deli turkey
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup pecan chips
• 1/2 – 1 cup craisins (dried cranberries)
• 1 green onion, minced
• 1/2 tablespoon orange zest, minced
• 1 teaspoon honey

Equipment Needed

• Food processor
• Serrated knife
• Platter

Instructions

These delightful pinwheels are surprisingly simple to assemble, but the magic truly happens during the chilling process, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

1. Begin by preparing the flavorful cream cheese base. In a food processor, combine the minced green onion and minced orange zest. Process these ingredients until they are very finely minced, almost paste-like. This ensures an even distribution of flavor throughout the cream cheese.

2. Add the honey and a small portion of the softened cream cheese to the food processor. Process until the mixture is smooth and all ingredients are well incorporated. This initial mix creates a fragrant and zesty foundation for the cheese spread.

3. Introduce the remaining softened cream cheese and the pecan chips into the food processor. Pulse the mixture until the pecans are just combined. Be careful not to over-process; you want to retain some texture from the pecans. This step adds a delightful crunch and nutty depth to the filling.

4. Now, it’s time to assemble the roll-ups. Lay out one flour tortilla flat. Spread a thin layer of the cream cheese mixture evenly across the entire surface of the tortilla, extending to the edges.

5. Carefully place two slices of deli turkey on top of the cream cheese layer, ensuring they cover a good portion of the tortilla.

6. Drizzle or dollop a little more cream cheese mixture over the turkey slices. This acts as a binder and adds another layer of creamy flavor.

7. Next, create thin lines of craisins over the cream cheese. Use about 2 thin lines of craisins per tortilla, distributing them lengthwise. The sweet and tart burst of the craisins will be a wonderful counterpoint to the savory elements.

8. Starting from one edge, tightly roll up the tortilla. Aim for a firm roll to prevent the pinwheels from unraveling when sliced.

9. Cover the rolled tortillas tightly with plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours. This crucial chilling period allows the tortillas to soften and firm up, making them easier to slice cleanly and enabling the flavors to meld together harmoniously.

10. Once chilled and firm, use a sharp serrated knife to slice the rolled tortillas into approximately 1-inch thick slices. You may need to discard the very ends of the rolls if they are uneven.

11. Arrange the beautiful pinwheel roll-ups on a serving platter. Their vibrant colors and spiral patterns make for an elegant and inviting appetizer.

Expert Tips & Tricks

For the most visually appealing and easy-to-slice roll-ups, ensure your cream cheese is truly softened. This allows for a smooth, even spread without tearing the tortilla. When rolling, apply consistent, firm pressure. This prevents air pockets and ensures a compact roll that holds its shape. If you find the craisins are sticking to your fingers, a tiny bit of water can help. For a more uniform craisin distribution, you can lightly chop them before adding them to the roll-ups.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These Kenda’s Thanksgiving Pinwheel Roll-Ups are best served chilled, making them an ideal make-ahead appetizer. They are perfect for grazing throughout a holiday gathering, complementing a cheese board, or simply enjoying as a light bite.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. While they are best enjoyed within the first day, they will still be quite palatable for a second day. If the tortillas become slightly less crisp over time, a brief exposure to room temperature can help restore some of their original texture.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving (approximate)	% Daily Value
Calories	72.5 kcal
Calories from Fat
Total Fat	4g	6%
Saturated Fat	1.8g	8%
Cholesterol	11.7 mg	3%
Sodium	161.8 mg	6%
Total Carbohydrate	7.1g	2%
Dietary Fiber	0.5g	2%
Sugars	1.9g	7%
Protein	2.3g	4%

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and exact measurements used.

Variations & Substitutions

While this recipe is delightful as is, feel free to experiment with variations to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs:

• Vegetarian Option: Simply omit the deli turkey for a delicious vegetarian appetizer. The cream cheese, nuts, and craisins offer plenty of flavor.
• Herbs: Incorporate finely chopped fresh chives or parsley into the cream cheese mixture for an herbaceous twist.
• Spicy Kick: A pinch of red pepper flakes mixed into the cream cheese can add a subtle warmth.
• Different Nuts: If pecans aren’t your favorite, try finely chopped walnuts or almonds for a similar crunch.
• Sweetener: For a less sweet version, a touch of maple syrup can be substituted for honey.

FAQs

Q: Can I make these roll-ups ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble and chill them for up to 4 hours. For longer storage, assemble and refrigerate, then slice just before serving for the freshest presentation.

Q: How do I get clean slices if the roll-ups are messy?
A: A sharp serrated knife is key. Run the knife under hot water and dry it between slices for the cleanest cuts.

Q: Can I use gluten-free tortillas?
A: Gluten-free tortillas can be used, but they may be more delicate and harder to roll tightly. Be gentle during assembly.

Q: What if I don’t have a food processor?
A: You can mince the green onion and orange zest very finely by hand. For the cream cheese mixture, you can combine ingredients in a bowl and mix vigorously with a fork or whisk until smooth.

Q: How many roll-ups will I get from one tortilla?
A: Each 40-inch tortilla will yield approximately 4-5 roll-ups when sliced into 1-inch pieces.

Final Thoughts

Kenda’s Thanksgiving Pinwheel Roll-Ups are more than just an appetizer; they are a delightful prelude to a memorable meal. Their unique combination of creamy, savory, and sweet flavors, coupled with their charming presentation, makes them a true showstopper. They are a testament to how simple ingredients, thoughtfully combined, can create something truly special. I encourage you to bring these festive pinwheels to your next gathering – they are guaranteed to be a hit! Consider pairing them with a crisp white wine or a festive sparkling cider for the ultimate holiday appetizer experience.