As the holidays approach, the blend of familiar flavors and festive cheer fills the air, transporting me straight to cozy family gatherings. Today, I’m excited to share my Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups, a delightful twist on traditional holiday appetizers. These easy-to-make treats offer a perfect balance of tart cranberries and creamy cheeses, all wrapped snugly in soft tortillas—an impressive addition to any party spread. Not only are they a quick fix for unexpected guests, but they also provide a unique flavor experience that sparks joy in every bite. Say farewell to bland party snacks and indulge in these fun, crowd-pleasing rolls! Ready to bring a burst of holiday spirit to your table? Let’s dive into this recipe together!
Why Are These Roll Ups a Must-Try?
Irresistible Flavor Fusion: The combination of tart cranberries and creamy cheeses creates a flavor explosion that dances on your taste buds.
Quick & Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these roll ups can be on your table in no time—perfect for last-minute gatherings!
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to mix and match fillings to suit your taste; try adding diced bell peppers or using whole wheat tortillas!
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: These roll ups are always a hit, disappearing faster than you can say “holiday cheer.” Pair them with Crescent Breakfast Roll for an unforgettable spread.
Make-Ahead Magic: Prep them ahead for a stress-free party; they taste even better after chilling! Impress your guests with these festive delights.
Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups Ingredients
• Get ready for a festive flavor sensation!
For the Filling
- Cream Cheese – Adds creaminess and acts as a binding agent; substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Feta Cheese – Provides a salty and tangy flavor; sheep’s milk feta enhances taste and is perfect in your Christmas cranberry roll ups.
- Dried Cranberries – Adds sweetness and tartness to balance flavors; opt for sweetened varieties to avoid bitterness.
- Fresh Chives – Delivers fresh herbal notes that elevate the overall flavor; green onions are a great alternative!
For the Wrap
- Flour Tortillas – The soft base that holds everything together; whole wheat or spinach tortillas make for a healthier twist.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups
Step 1: Beat the Cream Cheese
In a mixing bowl, beat 8 ounces of softened cream cheese using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until fluffy and smooth. This creamy base will serve as the backbone of your Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups, blending beautifully with the other ingredients. Make sure there are no lumps, as this ensures an even distribution of flavors.
Step 2: Combine the Filling Ingredients
Once the cream cheese is fluffy, gently fold in 4 ounces of crumbled feta cheese, 1 cup of dried cranberries (chopped if large), and 2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh chives. Mix these ingredients well with a spatula for about 1-2 minutes until evenly incorporated. This mixture creates a savory-sweet filling that captures the festive spirit perfectly.
Step 3: Spread the Mixture on Tortillas
Lay out 4 flour tortillas on a clean surface or cutting board. Using a spatula or the back of a spoon, spread an even layer of the filling mixture over each tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges. Aim for uniform coverage to ensure that every bite of your Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups is bursting with flavor. This step should take about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Roll the Tortillas
Starting from one end, carefully roll each tortilla tightly into a log shape, keeping the filling snugly inside. Make sure that the filling remains sealed within as you roll. This technique is essential for maintaining the structure of your roll ups. Once rolled, place them seam-side down on your cutting board. This step will take around 2-3 minutes.
Step 5: Chill the Roll Ups
Wrap each rolled tortilla individually in plastic wrap, ensuring they are tightly sealed to maintain shape. Refrigerate the wrapped roll ups for at least 1 hour, or up to 24 hours if prepping in advance. Chilling the roll ups helps them firm up, making them easier to slice and enhancing the flavors in your Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups.
Step 6: Slice into Pinwheels
After chilling, unwrap the roll ups and place them on your cutting board. Using a sharp serrated knife, slice each log into 1-inch thick pinwheels for clean, appealing pieces. A serrated knife works best to prevent squashing the roll ups. You should achieve about 8-10 slices per tortilla, showcasing the beautiful filling in each piece.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Arrange the pinwheels on a festive serving platter, either chilled or at room temperature. These delightful Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups can be served with your favorite dips or enjoyed on their own. Prepare to impress your guests with this easy yet elegant appetizer that captures the essence of holiday gatherings!
What to Serve with Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups
The holidays are a time for celebration, feasting, and creating warmly woven moments around the table.
Warm Spinach-Artichoke Dip: This creamy dip adds richness and pairs beautifully with the tartness of the cranberry roll ups, creating a harmonious balance. It’s a classic crowd-pleaser for any festive gathering.
Assorted Cheese Board: Featuring a mix of cheeses, nuts, and fruits, this board invites guests to graze while providing a variety of flavors and textures that complement the roll ups perfectly.
Crisp Vegetable Platters: Fresh veggies add a delightful crunch and refreshing sweetness, offering a light contrast that makes the flavors of the roll ups POP! Pair them with a zesty dip for an extra kick.
Festive Holiday Punch: A spiced cranberry punch delivers a sweet and tangy drink option that resonates well with the roll ups, enhancing the festive spirit and tantalizing taste buds.
Mini Meatballs: Savory, succulent meatballs offer a meaty dimension that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling in the roll ups, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: For dessert, these sweet treats are a bite-sized indulgence that brings a touch of elegance to your spread, balancing out the savory flavors effortlessly.
Mulled Wine: Warm, spiced red wine envelops guests in festive aromas and flavors, making it a perfect complement to the holiday ambiance and our delightful Christmas cranberry roll ups.
Tips for the Best Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups
Perfect Filling: Avoid overfilling your tortillas; this makes them difficult to roll and can lead to messy pinwheels. Aim for a generous yet manageable amount!
Chill Time: Refrigerate the roll ups for at least 1 hour and up to 24 hours. This helps firm them up, making slicing easier and enhancing the flavors in your Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups.
Slicing Technique: Use a sharp serrated knife for slicing; it helps achieve clean cuts without squishing the roll ups. This keeps the pinwheels looking beautiful.
Tortilla Choices: Choose soft flour tortillas for best results. If using whole wheat or spinach varieties, be careful as they can be less pliable.
Presentation Matters: Arrange your pinwheels on a festive platter and garnish with fresh herbs or cranberries for an inviting holiday display your guests will love!
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups
Fridge: Store tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container for freshness for up to 3 days. They taste even better after chilling!
Make-Ahead: Prepare roll ups up to 24 hours in advance for easy party prep. Just wrap them up and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve.
Freezer: If you want to keep them longer, freeze wrapped roll ups for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before slicing and serving.
Reheating: Serve these Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups chilled or at room temperature; there’s no need to reheat, as their delightful flavors shine when fresh!
Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups Variations
Let your creativity shine as you add personal touches to these delightful roll ups, making them truly yours!
Greek Yogurt: Substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangy twist that still packs a creamy punch.
Goat Cheese: Swap out feta cheese for creamy goat cheese to create a distinct, rich flavor that will elevate your roll ups.
Spinach Tortillas: Choose spinach tortillas for an added splash of color and nutrition, giving your roll ups a healthy and vibrant look.
Roasted Bell Peppers: Add diced roasted bell peppers to the filling for a smoky infusion that adds depth and a pop of color.
Herb-Infused Tortillas: Experiment with flavored tortillas like sun-dried tomato or herb varieties for an unexpected twist that surprises and delights!
Add Heat: Spice things up by incorporating a sprinkle of red pepper flakes into the filling for a warm kick that complements the cranberries beautifully.
Nutty Crunch: Toss in a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that contrasts with the soft filling.
Fruit Medley: Mix in some chopped apples or pears for a fruity twist that enhances the sweetness alongside the cranberries.
For even more fun ideas, you might enjoy trying these alongside some Cozy Breakfast Rolls or our delightful Crescent Roll Ham. Let’s make this holiday season delicious!
Make Ahead Options
These Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy time with your loved ones while saving you time in the kitchen! You can prepare the entire roll up filling and spread it over the tortillas up to 24 hours in advance; simply wrap tightly in plastic and refrigerate to keep the flavors fresh. Alternatively, roll and slice the pinwheels, storing them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Just remember to let them sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before serving to enhance their taste and texture. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have these crowd-pleasing appetizers ready with minimal effort when guests arrive!
Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups Recipe FAQs
What tortilla should I use for Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups?
For the best results, I recommend using soft flour tortillas as they provide the perfect texture for rolling. If you’re looking for a healthier twist, whole wheat or spinach tortillas are great alternatives. Just remember that whole wheat and spinach tortillas can be less pliable, so handle them gently while rolling.
How long can I store the roll ups in the fridge?
You can store your Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Keeping them chilled allows the flavors to deepen, making each bite even more delicious!
Can I make these roll ups in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the roll ups up to 24 hours in advance—just wrap them well and refrigerate. This is a fantastic way to save time on the day of your event, ensuring you can focus on enjoying the festivities.
How do I freeze Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups?
To freeze, wrap each roll up tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply take them out and thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, slice and serve, and they will taste just as delightful!
What if my tortillas are too dry to roll?
If you find your tortillas are a bit dry or prone to cracking, gently warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This makes them more pliable and easier to roll without tearing. Just be careful not to overheat them!
Can I use these roll ups for a gluten-free diet?
Definitely! Just substitute traditional flour tortillas with your favorite gluten-free variety. Many stores carry excellent gluten-free tortilla options that hold up nicely, ensuring everyone can enjoy the tasty Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups at your holiday celebration!
Delicious Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups for Your Holiday Table
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Beat the cream cheese using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until fluffy and smooth.
- Gently fold in the feta cheese, dried cranberries, and fresh chives. Mix until evenly incorporated.
- Spread an even layer of the filling mixture over each tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Roll each tortilla tightly into a log shape, ensuring that the filling remains sealed inside.
- Wrap each rolled tortilla in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Unwrap the roll ups and slice each log into 1-inch thick pinwheels.
- Arrange the pinwheels on a serving platter and serve chilled or at room temperature.
