Turkey Cranberry Pinwheels

This recipe is from KOMO News, Seattle's ABC affiliate. I added the amounts of turkey and cranberry sauce that worked best for me; the rest of the recipe is as posted on the station's website. It can be made as an appetizer for Thanksgiving Day, or it can be made later as a quick snack to use up leftover turkey and cranberry sauce from Thanksgiving dinner.

Turkey Cranberry Pinwheels
Turkey Cranberry Pinwheels

This recipe is from KOMO News, Seattle's ABC affiliate. I added the amounts of turkey and cranberry sauce that worked best for me; the rest of the recipe is as posted on the station's website. It can be made as an appetizer for Thanksgiving Day, or it can be made later as a quick snack to use up leftover turkey and cranberry sauce from Thanksgiving dinner.

  • Preparing Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Served Person: 20
  • Carbohydrate 0.1730738385255 g
  • Cholesterol 4.6776713115 mg
  • Fat 1.456031506416 g
  • Fiber 0 g
  • Protein 0.2521690079745 g
  • Saturated Fat 0.8203784994678 g
  • Serving Size 1 1 -25 serving(s) (4g)
  • Sodium 13.65029537265 mg
  • Sugar 0.1730738385255 g
  • Trans Fat 0.20798627622315 g
  • Calories 15 calories

Step-by-step

  • Unroll the crescent rolls and separate into rectangles.
  • Press the seams together to form four rectangles.
  • Spread cream cheese on each rectangle.
  • Shred turkey over cream cheese and top with cranberry sauce. (You can also add some dried cranberries too.)
  • Roll up the rectangle from the short side and press the seam to seal.
  • Cut each roll into 4 or 5 pinwheels, and place on a lightly greased cookie sheet.
  • Bake according to package directions (or at 350 degrees F) for 12 to 15 minutes or until light golden brown.
  • Serve warm.

Turkey Cranberry Pinwheels: A Thanksgiving Leftover Delight

Thanksgiving is my absolute favorite time of year. The smells, the family gathered around, the laughter... and of course, the food! But let's be honest, the best part about Thanksgiving, aside from the company, is the leftovers. There's something so comforting about waking up the day after Thanksgiving and knowing there's a delicious mountain of food waiting to be enjoyed again. This year, I'm sharing one of my favorite ways to use up those leftover Thanksgiving treasures: Turkey Cranberry Pinwheels.

These little pinwheels are incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort. They're perfect for a quick snack, a light lunch, or even a festive appetizer if you're having guests over. The combination of creamy cream cheese, savory turkey, and tangy cranberry sauce is simply irresistible. It’s a flavor profile that's both familiar and exciting, making it a crowd-pleaser for Thanksgiving or any time of the year.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can easily adjust the ingredients to your liking. Add some chopped pecans or walnuts for a bit of crunch, or sprinkle a pinch of herbs like rosemary or thyme for an extra layer of flavor. Feel free to experiment! The recipe is a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. You can make these ahead of time and bake them just before serving. This is a lifesaver for busy weeknights or when you have unexpected guests.

This recipe is a testament to the magic of transforming leftovers into something new and exciting. It's about making the most of what you have and enjoying delicious food without spending hours in the kitchen. It's a simple recipe, perfect for those of us who cherish quality time with loved ones over elaborate cooking sessions. The simple elegance of these pinwheels captures the spirit of Thanksgiving: gratitude for the abundance of food, family, and good times.

Beyond the Pinwheels: Thanksgiving Memories

These pinwheels bring back so many memories. I remember as a child, watching my grandmother meticulously prepare the Thanksgiving feast. The aroma of roasting turkey, the sweet scent of cranberry sauce, and the comforting warmth of the kitchen filled the house. Those were the days of family gatherings, where laughter echoed through the halls, and stories were shared around a table laden with delicious food. Making these pinwheels now is a way for me to reconnect with those cherished memories and share them with my own family.

But beyond the personal memories, I also value the adaptability of this recipe. It's not just for Thanksgiving; it's a versatile appetizer that can be enjoyed throughout the year. Imagine serving these pinwheels at a holiday party, a casual get-together with friends, or even as a special treat for a weeknight dinner. The possibilities are endless!

More Than Just a Recipe: A Celebration of Simplicity

For me, cooking isn't just about following a recipe; it's about creating something that brings people together. It's about expressing love through food, and sharing moments of joy with those we care about. This recipe for Turkey Cranberry Pinwheels embodies that spirit. It's a celebration of simple ingredients, transformed into something delicious and memorable. It's a testament to the fact that sometimes, the most straightforward recipes are the most rewarding. So, this Thanksgiving, or anytime you find yourself with leftover turkey and cranberry sauce, I highly encourage you to give this recipe a try. You won't be disappointed!

A Personal Touch: My Thanksgiving Tradition

My Thanksgiving tradition involves more than just cooking a big meal. It's about creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for my family and friends. We gather around the table, sharing stories, laughter, and of course, delicious food. The Turkey Cranberry Pinwheels have become a cherished part of this tradition, a small but significant element that adds to the overall joy and comfort of the holiday. They're a reminder that even the simplest dishes can hold a special place in our hearts and memories.

So, this year, as you gather with your loved ones, consider adding these delightful pinwheels to your Thanksgiving menu. Let them be a symbol of gratitude, togetherness, and the simple joys of life. And remember, the best part about Thanksgiving isn't just the food itself; it's the memories and connections we create while sharing it.

Happy Thanksgiving, and happy cooking!