Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups Recipe

If you’re looking for an appetizer that perfectly captures the festive spirit while delighting taste buds, these Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups are absolutely the way to go! Imagine a creamy, tangy cheese spread flecked with fresh herbs and sweet-tart cranberries, all snugly wrapped in soft tortillas and sliced into bite-sized festive bites. These roll ups are the ultimate crowd-pleaser: easy to make, colorful, and bursting with flavor that feels both traditional and refreshingly unique. Whether for a casual family gathering or an elegant holiday party, this simple recipe brings warmth, cheer, and a delicious pop of color to your celebration table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind these Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups starts with just a handful of ingredients that are as straightforward as they are essential. Each component plays a unique role, from creamy texture to vibrant color and that perfect balance of savory and sweet.

• 8 ounces softened cream cheese: This is the creamy base that holds everything together and adds luscious richness.
• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled: Adds a salty tang that beautifully complements the sweetness of the cranberries.
• 1/3 cup fresh chives, chopped: Fresh herbs that bring a mild onion flavor and a pinch of green color to brighten the roll ups.
• 1 1/2 cups dried cranberries: The star ingredient providing bursts of tart sweetness and festive red hues.
• 4 large flour tortillas (10 inches each): Soft and pliable wraps perfect for rolling up all the tasty fillings without cracking.

How to Make Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups

Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture

Start by placing the softened cream cheese in a small bowl and beating it until fluffy and smooth. This little step is key because it makes the cheese easier to mix with the other ingredients and ensures the filling has a wonderfully creamy, spreadable texture that melts in your mouth.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

Next, add the crumbled feta, chopped fresh chives, and dried cranberries to the whipped cream cheese. Stir everything together until evenly combined, creating a vibrant and flavorful spread packed with different textures and tastes in every bite. This mixture is the heart of your Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups and what makes them so irresistible.

Step 3: Spread and Roll

Lay out your tortillas and spread a generous but manageable amount of the cream cheese filling over each one, covering the surface evenly but leaving a small border around the edges. Rolling them tightly is crucial here to keep all that delicious filling inside and achieve those picture-perfect pinwheels you want at the end.

Step 4: Chill and Slice

Wrap each rolled tortilla tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour. The chill time helps the roll ups firm up so they slice cleanly without squishing or crumbling. When ready, unwrap and carefully cut the logs into slices of your preferred thickness, then arrange them on a festive platter for serving.

How to Serve Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups

Garnishes

For an extra touch of charm, sprinkle a few fresh chive pieces or tiny dried cranberry bits on top of the sliced roll ups. You might also add a light drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze if you want to enhance the sweetness subtly, or even a sprinkle of crushed walnuts for a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.

Side Dishes

These roll ups shine as appetizers alongside fresh vegetable sticks like crisp cucumber slices, colorful bell peppers, and tender baby carrots—which add refreshing texture and balance. Pairing them with a warm spinach-artichoke dip or a cheese board loaded with nuts and crackers rounds out a welcoming, festive spread that guests will return to again and again.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond the platter! You can spear each roll up slice with a festive toothpick for easy grab-and-go finger food or layer them artfully on a large wooden board with sprigs of rosemary and a scattering of whole cranberries for a holiday-themed centerpiece. For a charming party twist, arrange the slices in a circular wreath formation, mimicking holiday décor while feeding your guests deliciousness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

The Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups are fantastic make-ahead appetizers because their flavors deepen with time. Store any leftovers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or sealed in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. This helps keep the filling moist and the tortillas soft without drying out.

Freezing

If you want to prepare these roll ups well in advance, freezing is an option, though not ideal for maintaining the freshest texture. Wrap the rolls tightly in plastic, then in foil, and freeze for up to one month. When thawed, the texture of the filling might be a bit softer, so it’s best to slice them after thawing and serve chilled.

Reheating

Since these roll ups are meant to be served chilled, reheating isn’t necessary. To serve after refrigeration or freezing, remove from the fridge about 15 minutes before slicing to let the cream cheese soften slightly. This makes cutting easier and results in cleaner, neater pinwheels perfect for presentation.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! If feta isn’t your favorite, goat cheese or mascarpone can substitute nicely. Just aim for something creamy and tangy to keep the balanced flavor profile. For dairy-free options, vegan cream cheese alternatives work well but may alter texture slightly.

Are there alternatives to flour tortillas?

Yes, spinach or sun-dried tomato wraps add great flavor and color. However, avoid corn tortillas since they tend to crack when rolled. The key is choosing a soft, pliable wrap to hold the filling firmly.

Can I substitute fresh chives with another herb?

Definitely! Green onions’ green parts, parsley, or dill work well and offer unique flavor twists. If fresh herbs aren’t available, dried chives can be used, but reduce the quantity accordingly since dried herbs are more potent.

How far ahead can I make these roll ups?

You can prepare the roll ups up to 24 hours before serving. Wrapping them tightly and refrigerating overnight allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making party day stress-free and the taste even better.

What’s the best way to slice these roll ups?

Use a sharp serrated knife and slice in a gentle sawing motion rather than pressing straight down. This technique prevents squishing and keeps the pinwheels intact and neat-looking.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something so joyful about how Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups bring together simple ingredients into a festive, flavorful bite that’s both easy and impressive. Whether you’re a seasoned holiday host or trying something new for the season, these roll ups are guaranteed to become a beloved part of your celebrations. Give them a try—you’ll find yourself reaching for seconds and sharing the recipe with friends and family alike!

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