These Turkey & Apricot Wraps have become an absolute lunchtime lifesaver in our household! I was initially looking for a way to use up some leftover roast turkey that wasn’t another boring sandwich, and stumbled upon the idea of pairing turkey with the sweetness of apricots. The first time I made them, my kids were a bit skeptical about the fruit in a savory wrap, but one bite was all it took to convert them. Now, they actively request these for their school lunchboxes! The creamy cheese, the tender turkey, the chewy sweetness of the apricots, and the fresh crunch from a bit of celery or lettuce – it’s a symphony of textures and flavors that’s both incredibly satisfying and surprisingly light. They are so quick to assemble, making them perfect for busy weekdays, but also special enough to serve at a casual brunch or pack for a picnic. What I love most is their versatility; you can tweak the ingredients based on what you have on hand, and they always turn out delicious. They’ve truly elevated our lunch game from mundane to magnificent!

Ingredients for Irresistible Turkey & Apricot Wraps

This recipe is designed for 4 servings, but can easily be scaled up or down. The beauty of these wraps lies in their simplicity and the delightful interplay of savory and sweet.

For the Wraps:
- 4 large (10-12 inch) flour tortillas (whole wheat, spinach, or plain all work well)
For the Turkey & Apricot Filling:
- 1 pound (approx. 450g) cooked turkey breast, thinly sliced or shredded (deli turkey or leftover roast turkey)
- 8 ounces (approx. 225g) cream cheese, softened (full-fat or light)
- 1/2 cup (approx. 80g) dried apricots, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup (approx. 60ml) mayonnaise (optional, for extra creaminess and tang)
- 2 tablespoons apricot preserves or jam (optional, for enhanced sweetness and moisture)
- 1/4 cup (approx. 30g) finely chopped celery (for crunch)
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped green onions or chives (for mild onion flavor)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (to brighten flavors)
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for a subtle kick)
- Salt, to taste (start with 1/4 teaspoon)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste (start with 1/8 teaspoon)
Optional Add-ins & Layers:
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves or mixed salad greens
- 1/4 cup toasted slivered almonds or chopped pecans (for added crunch and nutty flavor)
- A pinch of curry powder or ground ginger (to complement the apricot)

A Note on Ingredients:

Turkey: Using good quality deli-sliced turkey (like oven-roasted or smoked) works wonderfully if you don’t have leftovers. If using leftover roast turkey, ensure it’s cooled and either shredded or thinly sliced. The key is to have it in manageable pieces for the wrap.
Cream Cheese: Allow the cream cheese to sit at room temperature for about 30-60 minutes before you start. Softened cream cheese is much easier to mix and spread, ensuring a smooth, lump-free filling. If you’re short on time, you can microwave it for 10-15 seconds, but be careful not to melt it.
Dried Apricots: Look for plump, moist dried apricots. If yours are a bit too dry, you can rehydrate them by soaking them in hot water for 10-15 minutes, then draining and patting them dry before chopping.
Tortillas: Choose tortillas that are fresh and pliable. If they are a bit stiff, you can warm them slightly in a dry skillet or microwave for a few seconds to make them easier to roll without cracking. Whole wheat tortillas add a nice nutty flavor and extra fiber.

Step-by-Step

Instructions for Perfect Wraps

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Turkey & Apricot Wraps. The process is straightforward and mainly involves mixing and assembling.

Prepare the Turkey & Apricots:
- If using sliced deli turkey, you can keep the slices whole or roughly chop them for easier mixing. If using leftover roast turkey, shred it or dice it into small, bite-sized pieces.
- Finely chop the dried apricots. The smaller the pieces, the better they will distribute throughout the filling.
- Finely dice the celery and slice the green onions or chives.
Create the Creamy Filling Base:
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise (if using), apricot preserves (if using), fresh lemon juice, and Dijon mustard (if using).
- Using a spatula or a spoon, mix these ingredients thoroughly until smooth and well combined. Ensure there are no large lumps of cream cheese.
Incorporate Turkey and Flavor Enhancers:
- Add the prepared turkey, chopped dried apricots, diced celery, and sliced green onions/chives to the cream cheese mixture.
- If you’re using toasted nuts or any spices like curry powder or ginger, add them now.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Start with a small amount, as the turkey and cream cheese may already have some salt.
- Gently stir everything together until all ingredients are evenly distributed. Be careful not to overmix, especially if using shredded turkey, as you want to maintain some texture. Taste the filling and adjust seasoning (salt, pepper, lemon juice) if necessary.
Assemble the Wraps:
- Lay one tortilla flat on a clean work surface.
- If using spinach or salad greens, arrange a layer of greens down the center of the tortilla, leaving a 1-2 inch border on the sides and bottom edge closest to you. This creates a fresh barrier and adds a nice crunch.
- Spoon approximately one-quarter of the turkey and apricot filling evenly over the greens (or directly onto the tortilla if not using greens), spreading it out but still leaving that border. Avoid overfilling, as this will make the wraps difficult to roll and can cause them to burst.
Roll the Wraps Tightly:
- Fold in the two sides of the tortilla by about 1 inch towards the center, over the filling.
- Starting from the edge closest to you (the bottom edge), tightly roll the tortilla upwards, encasing the filling to form a compact cylinder. The folded sides will help keep the filling contained. The tightness of the roll is key to a wrap that holds together well.
Repeat and Serve (or Store):
- Repeat steps 4 and 5 with the remaining tortillas and filling.
- Once rolled, you can serve the wraps immediately, or wrap them individually in plastic wrap or beeswax wraps and refrigerate for later. Chilling for at least 30 minutes can help them hold their shape better and makes them easier to slice if desired.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Please note that these are approximate values and can vary based on the specific brands of ingredients used, a slight variation in ingredient quantities, and the size of the tortillas. This estimation is for one wrap, assuming the recipe makes 4 wraps.

Servings: 4 wraps
Calories per serving (1 wrap): Approximately 450-550 kcal

Breakdown (Estimates):

Protein: 25-35g (Primarily from turkey)
Fat: 20-30g (From cream cheese, mayonnaise, nuts if added)
- Saturated Fat: 8-15g
Carbohydrates: 40-50g (Mainly from tortilla and apricots)
- Fiber: 4-7g (Higher if using whole wheat tortillas and spinach)
- Sugars: 10-15g (From apricots and apricot preserves)

Considerations for Nutritional Adjustments:

Lower Calorie/Fat: Use light cream cheese, omit or reduce mayonnaise, choose leaner turkey, and opt for smaller or low-carb tortillas.
Higher Protein: Increase the amount of turkey.
Higher Fiber: Use whole wheat tortillas, add more spinach or other vegetables like shredded carrots or bell peppers.

Always check the nutritional information on your specific ingredient packaging for the most accurate calculations if you are closely monitoring your intake.

Preparation Time

These wraps are wonderfully quick to put together, making them ideal for a speedy lunch or a light dinner.

Chopping & Mixing Time (Prep): 15-20 minutes
- This includes chopping the apricots, celery, green onions, and preparing the turkey if it’s not already pre-sliced or shredded.
- Mixing the filling takes just a few minutes.
Assembly Time: 5-10 minutes (for 4 wraps)
- Spreading the filling and rolling the wraps.
Total Active Time: Approximately 20-30 minutes
Optional Chilling Time: 30 minutes (or more)
- While not strictly necessary for immediate consumption, chilling helps the wraps firm up, makes them less messy to eat, and allows the flavors to meld even further. If packing for lunch, this chilling step is highly recommended.

This quick turnaround makes Turkey & Apricot Wraps a fantastic option when you’re short on time but still want something wholesome and flavorful.

How to Serve Your Delicious Turkey & Apricot Wraps

These versatile wraps can be served in various ways, depending on the occasion and your preference. Here are some ideas:

Whole and Hearty:
- Serve the wraps whole for a substantial and satisfying lunch.
- Simply place on a plate and enjoy! This is great for a quick, no-fuss meal.
Sliced for Easy Handling:
- Halved Diagonally: Use a sharp serrated knife to slice the wraps in half on a diagonal. This creates an appealing presentation and makes them easier to manage, especially for kids or when serving as part of a larger spread.
- Pinwheels/Bite-Sized Pieces: For appetizers, party platters, or kid-friendly bento boxes, slice the wraps into 1-inch thick rounds. To get clean cuts, ensure the wrap is tightly rolled and chilled. You might want to trim off the very ends for a neater look. Secure with toothpicks if needed.
Accompaniments and Pairings:
- Fresh Fruit: A side of fresh berries, melon slices, or apple wedges complements the sweetness of the apricots.
- Crisps/Chips: Potato chips, tortilla chips, or vegetable crisps add a satisfying crunch.
- Simple Salad: A light side salad with a vinaigrette dressing (like a balsamic or lemon vinaigrette) balances the creaminess of the wrap. Think mixed greens, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes.
- Soup: Pair with a cup of light vegetable soup, tomato soup, or a creamy butternut squash soup for a more complete meal, especially on cooler days.
- Pickles or Olives: A side of dill pickles, gherkins, or assorted olives provides a tangy counterpoint.
- Vegetable Sticks: Carrot sticks, cucumber sticks, and bell pepper strips with a light dip (like hummus or ranch) are a healthy and crunchy addition.
For Picnics and Packed Lunches:
- Wrap each wrap tightly in plastic wrap, beeswax wrap, or aluminum foil.
- Pack in an insulated lunch bag with an ice pack to keep them cool and fresh, especially if they contain mayonnaise.
- If slicing into pinwheels for a lunchbox, pack them snugly together to help them hold their shape.
Presentation on a Platter:
- If serving for a gathering, arrange the sliced wraps (halves or pinwheels) artfully on a platter.
- Garnish the platter with fresh parsley, chives, or a few extra dried apricot halves for visual appeal.

Remember to consider the audience and occasion when deciding how to serve them. Whether it’s a simple solo lunch or a platter for guests, these Turkey & Apricot Wraps are sure to please!

Additional Tips for Wrap Perfection

Elevate your Turkey & Apricot Wraps from great to absolutely unforgettable with these extra pointers:

Toast Your Tortillas (Optional): For a slightly crispier texture and enhanced flavor, lightly warm or toast your tortillas in a dry skillet for about 15-30 seconds per side before adding the filling. Be careful not to make them too crispy, or they’ll crack when you try to roll them. They should still be pliable. This step can also prevent the tortilla from becoming soggy too quickly.
Don’t Overstuff: It’s tempting to load up your wraps with that delicious filling, but overstuffing is the primary culprit for wraps that are difficult to roll and prone to bursting or leaking. Aim for an even layer that leaves a clear border around the edges. A good rule of thumb is that less is often more for a neat, manageable wrap.
Make the Filling Ahead: The turkey and apricot filling can be made up to 24-48 hours in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This is a fantastic time-saver for busy mornings or when meal prepping. The flavors will also have more time to meld. Assemble the wraps just before serving or a few hours ahead if packing for lunch to prevent the tortillas from getting soggy.
Ingredient Temperature Matters: For the best mixing experience, ensure your cream cheese is properly softened. Cold cream cheese is lumpy and difficult to combine smoothly with other ingredients. Conversely, if you’re packing the wraps for later, ensure the filling is chilled before assembling, and keep the assembled wraps refrigerated to maintain freshness and food safety.
Customize with Spices and Herbs: Don’t be afraid to experiment with additional spices and fresh herbs to tailor the wraps to your taste.
- Spices: A pinch of curry powder, a hint of smoked paprika, or a touch of ground ginger can add warmth and complexity that pairs beautifully with apricot and turkey.
- Herbs: Freshly chopped parsley, cilantro, or even a little fresh mint can add brightness and another layer of flavor to the filling. Consider adding them just before mixing.

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll ensure your Turkey & Apricot Wraps are consistently delicious, easy to handle, and perfectly suited to your preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are answers to some common questions about making Turkey & Apricot Wraps:

Q: Can I use fresh apricots instead of dried?
- A: While dried apricots offer a chewy texture and concentrated sweetness that works exceptionally well in this recipe, you could experiment with fresh apricots. If using fresh, dice them finely and consider patting them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, which could make the filling watery. You might also need to adjust the sweetness, perhaps by adding a little more apricot preserve or a touch of honey, as fresh apricots can be tarter. The texture will be softer and less chewy.
Q: How long do these wraps last in the refrigerator?
- A: If wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container, assembled Turkey & Apricot Wraps can last for 1-2 days in the refrigerator. The tortillas may soften over time, especially if you’ve included moist ingredients like fresh greens directly against them. For best results and texture, they are ideally consumed within 24 hours. The filling itself, stored separately, can last for 2-3 days.
Q: Can I make these wraps gluten-free?
- A: Yes, absolutely! To make these wraps gluten-free, simply substitute the regular flour tortillas with your favorite brand of gluten-free tortillas. Corn tortillas can also work, though they are generally smaller and may be more prone to cracking if not very fresh and warmed. Alternatively, you can serve the filling in large lettuce cups (like romaine or butter lettuce) for a naturally gluten-free and lower-carb option.
Q: What are some good alternatives if I don’t like cream cheese?
- A: If cream cheese isn’t your preference, there are several alternatives. You could try:
  - Mascarpone cheese: For a similarly rich and creamy texture, though milder in flavor.
  - Thick Greek yogurt: For a tangier, lighter, and higher-protein option. You might want to add a bit more seasoning.
  - Hummus: This would create a different flavor profile (more savory and earthy) but could work well, especially a plain or roasted garlic hummus.
  - Ricotta cheese (drained): Blended until smooth, it can provide a creamy base, though it’s milder than cream cheese.
    You may need to adjust other liquid ingredients (like mayonnaise or lemon juice) to achieve the desired consistency.
Q: Can I add other vegetables or ingredients to the filling?
- A: Definitely! These wraps are very customizable. Consider adding:
  - Shredded carrots: For sweetness, color, and crunch.
  - Finely diced red bell pepper: For a sweet, crisp element.
  - Chopped water chestnuts: For a unique, crisp texture.
  - A different type of nut: Toasted walnuts or pistachios would also be delicious.
  - Different dried fruit: Dried cranberries or cherries could be used instead of or in addition to apricots for a different sweet-tart flavor.
    Just be mindful of adding too many watery vegetables, as they can make the filling and wraps soggy. Finely chop any additions for best distribution.

Turkey & Apricot Wraps Recipe