There’s something exciting about turning everyday ingredients into a delightful feast. One sunny afternoon, I found myself with a few items in my fridge that simply begged to be transformed into a snack that was both simple and wow-worthy. Enter the Peanut Butter Frappe—an unexpected twist on a classic favorite that I never saw coming!
Picture this: creamy, rich layers of cream cheese perfectly complemented by fresh spinach, crunchy carrots, and a hint of sweetness from dried cranberries and honey, all wrapped snugly in a flour tortilla. This recipe quickly became my go-to for gatherings or just a fun afternoon treat when I’m craving something homemade instead of the usual fast food.
In just 5 minutes of prep (plus a short chill), you’ll have fancy pinwheels that not only look impressive but taste incredible! Perfect for sharing or for savoring all to yourself—let’s dive into making this delicious Peanut Butter Frappe together!
Why You'll Love This Peanut Butter Frappe
- This Peanut Butter Frappe is incredibly easy to whip up, taking just 5 minutes of prep time to create a delicious snack.
- The flavor combination of rich cream cheese, fresh spinach, and sweet cranberries will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
- Its versatility allows you to customize the pinwheels with your favorite ingredients, making it suitable for any occasion.
- Not only do they look stunning on a platter, but they are also crowd-pleasers that will impress your guests at any gathering.
Peanut Butter Frappe Ingredients
• A delightful guide to crafting pinwheels!
For the Pinwheels
• Large flour tortilla – serves as the perfect wrap for all your tasty fillings.
• Cream cheese – adds that creamy richness which pairs beautifully with fresh ingredients.
• Fresh spinach – a great source of vitamins, lending a fresh flavor and vibrant color.
• Dried cranberries – provides a hint of sweetness and chewy texture, perfect for the Peanut Butter Frappe.
• Shredded carrots – adds a delightful crunch, ideal for enhancing the overall bite.
• Honey – a natural sweetener that balances the flavors beautifully.
• Fresh lemon juice – brightens the mixture, enhancing the taste of each bite.
• Salt and pepper – to taste, elevating the flavors to perfection.
• Chopped walnuts or pecans (optional) – sprinkle in some extra crunch if you desire.
Feel free to customize these ingredients to suit your palate and get ready to impress with your homemade snack!
How to Make Peanut Butter Frappe
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Combine ingredients. In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, chopped spinach, dried cranberries, shredded carrots (if using), honey, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until everything is well blended and creamy.
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Lay out the tortilla. Place the large flour tortilla flat on a clean surface to create a perfect canvas for your filling.
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Spread the mixture. Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture across the entire surface of the tortilla, making sure to cover all corners for maximum flavor in every bite!
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Roll it up. Starting at one end, tightly roll the tortilla into a log shape, ensuring the filling is secured inside for a delightful bite every time.
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Chill the roll. Wrap the rolled tortilla in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time helps it firm up for easier slicing.
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Slice and serve. After chilling, remove the plastic wrap and slice the roll into 1-inch pinwheels. Place them on a serving platter and enjoy every colorful bite!
Optional: For added crunch, sprinkle the pinwheels with chopped walnuts or pecans before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Peanut Butter Frappe Variations
Customize your Peanut Butter Frappe with delightful twists that inspire your creativity in the kitchen!
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free tortilla to ensure everyone can enjoy these tasty pinwheels without compromise.
- Vegan: Substitute cream cheese with a vegan alternative and use maple syrup instead of honey for a sweet, cruelty-free option. The flavor remains rich and satisfying!
- Nut-Butter Bliss: Instead of cream cheese, spread your favorite nut butter for a creamy, protein-packed version. This offers a unique flavor while adding a satisfying richness to each bite.
- Herb-Infusion: Add fresh herbs like basil or cilantro to the filling for an aromatic kick. This adds a refreshing depth that takes the pinwheels from ordinary to extraordinary.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of cayenne or diced jalapeños to the cream cheese mixture for those who love a touch of heat. It balances the sweetness beautifully!
- Fruit Fiesta: Toss in some chopped apples or pears for a juicy crunch that plays wonderfully against the creaminess. It adds bright flavors and a fresh twist to the recipe.
- Dried Fruit Medley: Swap cranberries for your choice of dried fruits like apricots or cherries to explore different sweet flavors. The variety keeps these pinwheels exciting!
- Cheese Lovers: Add crumbled feta or goat cheese for a tangy contrast that enhances the overall taste. It’s a simple addition that can elevate the entire dish!
Make Ahead Options
These Peanut Butter Frappe pinwheels are a fantastic meal prep option for busy home cooks! You can prepare the cream cheese mixture up to 24 hours in advance; simply combine the softened cream cheese, spinach, cranberries, carrots, honey, lemon juice, salt, and pepper, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The rolled tortilla can also be made ahead and kept wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 days, ensuring it remains fresh and delicious. When you’re ready to serve, slice and enjoy the pinwheels straight from the fridge—this way, they’ll be just as delightful as when you first made them!
What to Serve with Peanut Butter Frappe?
Create the perfect ambiance as you enjoy these fun and flavorful pinwheels alongside delightful pairings that enhance their deliciousness.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy pinwheels, bringing a burst of flavor in every bite.
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Crispy Veggie Sticks: Carrot and cucumber sticks provide a satisfying crunch, making for a light and healthy addition that balances the creaminess.
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Zesty Lemonade: The bright acidity and sweetness of lemonade perfectly complement the savory and rich flavors of the Peanut Butter Frappe, quenching your thirst beautifully.
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Yogurt Dipping Sauce: A light yogurt dip infused with herbs creates a tangy contrast, making each bite of your pinwheels even more delectable.
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Spiced Nuts: The warmth of spiced or roasted nuts offers a satisfying crunch that contrasts the softness of the pinwheels while adding complexity to the flavor profile.
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Cheese Platter: Pair with a selection of cheeses like sharp cheddar and creamy brie for a delightful balance to the creamy, sweet, and crunchy elements of the pinwheels.
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Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc enhances the meal, its crispness harmonizing beautifully with the rich cream cheese and fresh ingredients.
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Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: For a sweet touch, these elegant treats not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also create a beautiful color contrast on the platter.
Storage Tips for Peanut Butter Frappe
Room Temperature: Keep the Peanut Butter Frappe pinwheels at room temperature for up to 2 hours if serving immediately. Beyond that, refrigerating is recommended for freshness.
Fridge: Store any leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will help maintain their creamy texture and vibrant flavors.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze pinwheels individually wrapped in plastic wrap. They can last for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the fridge before serving.
Reheating: If you prefer warm pinwheels, reheat in the microwave for 15-20 seconds. Enjoy them warm for a delightful twist!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making the Peanut Butter Frappe, ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to achieve a smooth and easily spreadable mixture.
- Always spread the cream cheese mixture evenly across the tortilla to avoid any dry bites and to ensure every slice is flavorful.
- To keep the pinwheels from falling apart, use a tight roll when wrapping the tortilla and secure the ends well.
- Remember to chill the rolled tortilla for at least 30 minutes as this will help it hold its shape when slicing into pinwheels.
- Avoid overfilling the tortilla, as this can lead to messy slices and a challenging roll.
Peanut Butter Frappe Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ripe spinach?
Absolutely! When choosing fresh spinach, look for vibrant green leaves that are crisp and free from any dark spots or wilting. Baby spinach is milder in flavor and more tender, making it perfect for pinwheels, while mature spinach has a richer taste. Always opt for organic if possible, to avoid pesticides.
How should I store leftover Peanut Butter Frappe pinwheels?
Very! For optimal freshness, place any leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the fridge. They will remain delicious for up to 3 days. Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper if you have multiple layers to prevent them from sticking together.
Can I freeze the Peanut Butter Frappe pinwheels?
Absolutely! For freezing, wrap each pinwheel individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can stay good for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the fridge overnight, and they’ll be ready to serve!
What should I do if my cream cheese mixture is too thick?
No worries! If your cream cheese mixture is too thick to spread easily, you can add a splash of milk or a teaspoon of extra honey to the mix. Blend well until smooth and creamy, making it easier to spread on the tortilla. This also helps keep the pinwheels light and airy.
Are there any dietary considerations for the Peanut Butter Frappe?
Very! If you’re serving guests with allergies or dietary restrictions, it’s important to note that this recipe contains dairy (cream cheese) and nuts (if you add walnuts or pecans). For a dairy-free alternative, you can use a plant-based cream cheese. Just be sure to check labels for any added sugars or allergens if necessary.
Peanut Butter Frappe
Ingredients
- 1 large flour tortilla serves as the perfect wrap for fillings
- 8 oz cream cheese softened for easy spreading
- 2 cups fresh spinach washed and chopped
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries adds sweetness and texture
- 1 cup shredded carrots optional, for added crunch
- 2 tbsp honey to sweeten the filling
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors
- to taste salt
- to taste pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans optional for extra crunch
Method
- In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, chopped spinach, dried cranberries, shredded carrots (if using), honey, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until everything is well blended and creamy.
- Place the large flour tortilla flat on a clean surface.
- Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture across the tortilla.
- Starting at one end, tightly roll the tortilla into a log shape.
- Wrap the rolled tortilla in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- After chilling, remove the plastic wrap and slice the roll into 1-inch pinwheels.
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