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As I whisked together the creamy filling for these Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups, a delightful aroma filled my kitchen, instantly transporting me to joyous holiday gatherings. These festive bites bring together the tartness of cranberries and a flavorful herb-infused cream cheese, all cozily wrapped in soft tortillas. Not only are they a breeze to prepare, but they can also be made ahead of time—perfect for those busy holiday evenings. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply looking to share a treat with loved ones, these appetizers are sure to impress and satisfy. Curious about how to make these delightful roll-ups that everyone will be talking about? Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love These Roll Ups
Easy Preparation: You don’t need to be a culinary wizard to whip up these roll ups; they come together in no time with just a few simple ingredients!
Crowd-Pleasing Flavors: The sweet-tart cranberries paired with creamy feta create a harmonious taste explosion that will have your guests coming back for more.
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Make Ahead Magic: Perfect for busy holiday schedules, simply prepare these roll ups a day in advance and store them in the fridge—easy peasy!
Versatile Options: Want to switch things up? Feel free to experiment with different herbs or dried fruits like apricots for a unique twist!
Textural Delight: Each bite offers a satisfying combination of creamy, chewy, and soft textures, making them a delightful addition to any appetizer spread. Serve alongside a warm spinach-artichoke dip or an assorted cheese board for a complete experience!
Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups Ingredients
• Perfect for your festive appetizers!
For the Filling
• Cream Cheese – Provides a rich, creamy base; try Neufchâtel for a lighter option.
• Feta Cheese – Adds tangy depth; sheep’s milk feta enhances flavor beautifully.
• Dried Cranberries – Offers a sweet and tart balance; sweetened cranberries work best.
• Chopped Fresh Chives – Imparts a fresh herbal note; green onions can be a practical swap.
For the Wrap
• Flour Tortillas – Serves as the perfect vessel for the filling; opt for soft tortillas for the best texture.
These Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups are bound to be a holiday hit with their delightful flavor combination!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, beat 8 ounces of cream cheese using a hand mixer for about 2 minutes until it’s fluffy and smooth. This will ensure a creamy texture that’s easy to spread. Next, gently fold in 1 cup of crumbled feta cheese, 1/2 cup of chopped dried cranberries, and 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh chives until everything is well combined and evenly distributed.
Step 2: Spread the Mixture
Lay out your soft flour tortillas on a clean surface. Using a spatula, spread an even layer of the cream cheese mixture over each tortilla, making sure to cover the entire surface. This helps ensure every bite of your Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups is packed with flavor. Aim for about 1/2 cup of filling per tortilla, layering generously but avoiding the edges to prevent leakage when rolling.
Step 3: Roll the Tortillas
Starting from one end, carefully roll each tortilla tightly into a log shape, encasing the filling snugly. Apply gentle pressure as you roll to keep the filling secure inside, ensuring a nice, tight wrap. This will help the roll ups maintain their shape, creating beautiful pinwheels once sliced. Repeat this process for all tortillas until you have several filled logs.
Step 4: Wrap and Chill
Once all tortillas are rolled, wrap each log tightly in plastic wrap. This will help hold the shape and keep them moist as they chill. Place the wrapped roll ups in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, allowing them to firm up. Chilling helps the flavors meld together perfectly and makes slicing easier later on.
Step 5: Slice the Roll Ups
After chilling, remove the roll ups from the refrigerator and unwrap them from the plastic. Using a sharp, serrated knife, slice each log into 1-inch pinwheels for an elegant presentation. Be gentle and use a sawing motion to avoid squishing the filling. The vibrant colors and textures will be a visual treat, enticing everyone at your gathering.
Step 6: Arrange and Serve
Finally, arrange the sliced Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups on a beautiful serving platter. Serve them chilled or at room temperature to showcase their festive colors and creamy textures. These delightful appetizers are perfect for parties, offering a luscious combination of flavors that will have your guests asking for seconds. Enjoy the compliments that come your way!
What to Serve with Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups
These festive rolls are bursting with flavors that deserve a delightful spread of accompaniments to complete your holiday gathering.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their smooth texture contrasts perfectly with the roll ups, adding warmth and comfort to your appetizer spread.
- Spinach-Artichoke Dip: This creamy dip offers a delicious and savory depth that pairs brilliantly with the sweet-tart roll ups, creating a well-rounded flavor profile.
- Cheese Board: An assortment of cheeses elevates your appetizer spread, providing variety and a delightful range of textures that complement the creamy roll ups.
- Mixed Green Salad: A crisp salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing element to your meal, balancing the richness of the roll ups with bright, fresh flavors.
- Sparkling Apple Cider: This bubbly drink enhances the festive atmosphere and its sweet notes harmonize beautifully with the savory-sweet flavor of the roll ups.
- Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: For a sweet touch, these delightful treats provide a luscious finish, making for a memorable end to your festive meal.
Consider mixing and matching these ideas to create an inviting and delicious holiday feast your guests will love!
Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful options to customize your roll ups for a unique twist on this holiday favorite!
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Dried Fruit Alternatives: Swap dried cranberries for apricots or cherries for an exciting flavor twist. The sweet-tart profile will surprise your taste buds!
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Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling. They provide a delightful texture and bring an extra layer of flavor that perfectly complements the creamy filling.
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Herb Swaps: If you’re out of chives, try using fresh dill or parsley instead. Each option will lend its own distinctive taste, making your roll ups uniquely yours.
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Spicy Kick: For an extra zing, incorporate a dash of crushed red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper into the filling. This subtle heat can elevate the overall taste.
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Veggie Boost: Add finely diced bell peppers or spinach for a nutritious twist. They introduce a pop of color and a burst of freshness to your roll ups!
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Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like goat cheese or pepper jack for a tangy flavor or a spicy kick. Each cheese adds its unique flair, making your roll ups more exciting.
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Whole Grain Wraps: Use whole wheat tortillas instead of flour ones for a healthier option without sacrificing taste. They enhance the nutritional value while keeping the flavor intact.
Serve these delightful roll ups at your next gathering alongside a comforting dish like Chicken Roll Ups or a warm Cranberry Turkey Grilled sandwich for a festive spread. You can also check out my Ingredient Cinnamon Roll recipe for a delicious breakfast option!
Make Ahead Options
These Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the filling up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix the cream cheese, feta, cranberries, and chives as directed, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can roll and wrap the tortillas tightly, refrigerating them to maintain freshness for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, slice the chilled logs into pinwheels and arrange on a platter. This make-ahead method keeps your roll-ups just as delicious while allowing you to focus on enjoying your holiday gathering!
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups
Fridge: Store the roll ups wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container for freshness up to 3 days. Remember to take them out 15 minutes before slicing for easier cutting.
Freezer: If you want to prepare them in advance, these Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups can be frozen for up to 1 month. Wrap each log tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag.
Reheating: If you freeze the roll ups, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. Re-slice and serve chilled for the best flavor and texture.
Make-Ahead Magic: These delicious bites can be made 24 hours in advance, making them perfect for busy holiday festivities without sacrificing flavor or freshness.
Expert Tips for Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups
• Avoid Overfilling: Keep the filling to about 1/2 cup per tortilla to prevent leaks when rolling, ensuring beautiful pinwheels later.
• Chill for Flavor: Refrigerating the roll ups for at least 1 hour helps meld the flavors. For best results, chill for up to 2 hours.
• Sharp Knife Necessary: Use a sharp, serrated knife for clean cuts. A gentle, sawing motion yields perfect pinwheels without squishing the filling.
• Experiment with Additions: Don’t hesitate to customize—herbs like dill or nuts such as walnuts can elevate your Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups!
• Presentation Matters: Arrange the roll ups on a festive platter for a beautiful display that enhances their visual appeal at your holiday gathering.
Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups Recipe FAQs
What type of cranberries should I use?
I recommend using sweetened dried cranberries for the best balance of tartness and sweetness in these roll ups. You can also try substituting them with other dried fruits like apricots or cherries to customize the flavor profile.
How should I store the Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups?
Store the roll ups wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for freshness up to 3 days. Always remember to take them out about 15 minutes before slicing to ease the cutting process.
Can I freeze Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups for later use?
Absolutely! You can freeze the roll ups for up to 1 month. Just wrap each log tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to serve, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, then slice and serve chilled.
I had trouble rolling the tortillas; what should I do?
If you’re having trouble rolling the tortillas, make sure they are soft and pliable. Using freshly made or warmed tortillas can help. If they crack while rolling, try warming them slightly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This makes them more flexible and easier to work with!
Can I make these roll ups vegetarian?
Yes, these Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups are already vegetarian! If you have specific dietary restrictions, feel free to use Neufchâtel cheese instead of regular cream cheese for a lower-fat option, or substitute the feta cheese with a non-dairy alternative to suit vegan dietary needs.
How do I prevent the filling from leaking out while rolling?
To avoid leaks, be careful not to overfill your tortillas. Aim for about 1/2 cup of filling per tortilla, and make sure to spread the mixture evenly while leaving some space around the edges. This way, you can roll them tightly without the filling spilling out!
Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups Recipe FAQs
Delicious Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups Your Guests Will Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Beat cream cheese using a hand mixer for about 2 minutes until fluffy and smooth.
- Fold in crumbled feta, chopped dried cranberries, and chopped fresh chives until well combined.
- Spread an even layer of the cream cheese mixture over each tortilla, covering the entire surface.
- Roll each tortilla tightly into a log shape, encasing the filling snugly.
- Wrap each log tightly in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
- Slice each log into 1-inch pinwheels using a sharp, serrated knife.
- Arrange the sliced roll ups on a serving platter and serve chilled or at room temperature.
