The unmistakable aroma of the holiday season is about to wrap you in warmth as we unveil a festive delight: Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups. This dish masterfully weaves together the tangy pop of cranberries, creamy cheese, and fresh herbs, all enveloped in a soft tortilla. Not only do these delightful bites make for an eye-catching appetizer, but they’re also a breeze to whip up, allowing you more time to enjoy the company of loved ones. Plus, they’re a great make-ahead option—preparing them in advance ensures that the flavors meld beautifully. Ready to earn some holiday cheer with this festive favorite? Let’s make magic happen in the kitchen!

Why You’ll Adore These Roll Ups?

Ease of Preparation: You’ll find these Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups are simple to assemble, making them perfect for busy holiday schedules.

Flavor Explosion: The fusion of tart cranberries and creamy cheeses creates a delightful burst of flavor that dances on your palate.

Impressive Presentation: With their vibrant colors and stunning pinwheel shape, these appetizers will steal the show at any holiday gathering.

Versatile Variations: Feel free to customize with fresh herbs or different tortillas to match your guests’ tastes—like with our Cheesecake Cookie Cups for dessert!

Perfect for Prepping Ahead: Make them a day in advance for effortlessly stress-free entertaining, freeing up your time for family and fun.

Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups Ingredients

For the Filling

Cream Cheese – Provides a creamy, tangy base for the filling; use softened for easy mixing.
Feta Cheese – Adds a rich, savory flavor; sheep’s milk feta is preferred for taste.
Dried Cranberries – Offer sweetness and a tart kick; opt for sweetened cranberries to balance the flavors.
Chopped Fresh Chives – Add a fresh, herbal note; can substitute with green onions for a similar flavor.

For the Wrap

Flour Tortillas – The base that holds the filling; choose large tortillas for easy rolling.

These Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups come together in a delightful blend of flavors, making them the perfect holiday appetizer to enjoy with your loved ones!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups

Step 1: Prepare Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat 8 ounces of softened cream cheese with a hand mixer until it’s fluffy and smooth, which takes about 2 minutes. Make sure there are no lumps. This creamy base is crucial for your Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups, providing a delightful mouthfeel and ensuring a uniform flavor.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients
Add 1 cup of crumbled feta cheese, 1 cup of chopped dried cranberries, and ¼ cup of chopped fresh chives to the bowl. Stir the mixture with a spatula until all ingredients are evenly combined. This medley creates a wonderful harmony of flavors that will elevate your roll ups, ensuring each bite is deliciously vibrant.

Step 3: Spread
Lay out 4 large flour tortillas on a clean surface. Using a spatula, evenly spread about ½ cup of the creamy filling across the entire surface of each tortilla, leaving a small border at the edges. The goal is to have a consistent layer of filling, which will hold your Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups together as you roll.

Step 4: Roll
Starting from one edge, tightly roll each tortilla into a log shape, ensuring the filling is contained. Be gentle and firm to avoid any tearing. The tighter the roll, the better your Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups will hold their shape when you slice them later.

Step 5: Wrap
Once rolled, wrap each log in plastic wrap, making sure to twist the ends to secure them tightly. This step is essential as it helps maintain the shape of the roll and prevents them from drying out. Set the wrapped rolls aside as you prepare for chilling.

Step 6: Chill
Place the plastic-wrapped roll ups in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or up to 24 hours for even greater flavor melding. Chilling is vital; it firms up the filling, making slicing much easier and resulting in clean, attractive pieces of your Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups.

Step 7: Slice & Serve
After chilling, remove the plastic wrap and utilize a sharp serrated knife to slice the roll ups into 1-inch thick pieces, which will reveal the beautiful spiral pattern. Arrange the slices on a festive platter. Your gorgeous Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups are now ready to impress your guests at any holiday gathering!

Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize these festive roll ups into your own delightful masterpiece!

Fresh Herbs: Swap chives for fresh basil or parsley for a fragrant twist; each adds a unique flavor profile to your roll ups.
Whole Wheat Tortillas: Use whole wheat or spinach tortillas for a healthier alternative that adds a lovely earthy flavor and vibrant color.
Add Vegetables: Toss in diced bell peppers or fresh spinach into the filling for added crunch and nutrition. These elements not only boost flavor but also create an appealing texture.
Nutty Flavor: Stir in some chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling for a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheese.
Spicy Kick: Mix in a touch of diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a little heat; this spicy contrast with the sweet cranberries creates an exciting flavor explosion.
Cheese Swap: Substitute the feta with goat cheese or a sharp cheddar for a completely new taste experience while keeping that creamy texture intact.
Sweet Twist: For a sweeter version, add a drizzle of honey on top before serving; it complements the tart cranberries divinely.
Festive Plating: Serve these roll ups alongside an elegant cheese platter or pair with our warm spinach-artichoke dip for an irresistible snack spread.

With these variations, your Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups can truly shine at any holiday gathering, ensuring every guest finds a flavor they love!

Storage Tips for Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups

Fridge: Keep your Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups tightly wrapped in plastic wrap; they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their delicious creamy texture.

Make-Ahead: You can prepare these roll ups up to 24 hours in advance. Wrap them well and refrigerate to enhance flavor melding before your holiday gathering.

Freezer: If you want to store them longer, freeze the unwrapped roll ups for up to 2 months. Defrost in the fridge overnight before slicing.

Reheating: Although best served cold, if you prefer them warm, simply pop them in a microwave for a few seconds—but be careful not to overheat!

What to Serve with Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups

These delightful roll ups are ideal companions to elevate your holiday spread, ensuring a memorable gathering filled with flavor and joy.

Warm Spinach-Artichoke Dip: This creamy dip complements the tartness of the cranberries, providing a luxurious texture that your guests will adore. Pairing it with crispy tortilla chips is delightful for dipping.
Cheese Board Assortment: A diverse cheese board featuring cheddar, brie, and gouda offers contrasting flavors and textures, enhancing the overall festive experience. Adding some nuts and dried fruits rounds out this elegant pairing.
Crispy Veggie Platter: Fresh vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and celery provide a refreshing crunch that nicely offsets the creamy roll ups. Serve with a zesty ranch or hummus dip for added zest.
Sparkling Apple Cider: This bubbly drink delivers a sweet and tangy flavor that harmonizes beautifully with the richness of the roll ups. It’s festive, non-alcoholic, and perfect for all ages.
Holiday Fruit Salad: A bright mix of citrus fruits and berries not only adds a pop of color but also offers a refreshing palate cleanser between bites. The sweet and tart notes elevate the tasting experience.
Mini Quiches: These bite-sized treats come in a variety of flavors, adding an eggy richness that pairs well with the cranberry’s acidity. Consider options like spinach or ham and cheese for a savory touch.
Gingerbread Cookies: For a sweet finale, gingerbread cookies infused with spices bring warmth to the holiday gathering, perfectly balancing the savory flavors of the roll ups.
Mulled Wine: This warm, spiced drink adds a festive element and complements the flavors in the roll ups. It’s aromatic and creates an inviting atmosphere for holiday cheer!
Pecan Pie Bites: These mini desserts provide a sweet, crunchy contrast that’s sure to please. Their caramelly flavor paired with a rich crust satisfies any sweet tooth.

Embrace these delectable pairings to create an unforgettable holiday feast centered around your Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups!

Expert Tips for Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups

Perfect Filling Amount: Avoid overfilling tortillas; stick to about ½ cup for easy rolling and cleanup.
Chill Time Matters: Chill for at least 2 hours; this ensures the filling firms up, leading to cleaner slices and a better presentation.
Sharp Knife Use: A sharp serrated knife cuts through the roll ups easily, revealing the beautiful spiral of your Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups.
Herb Substitutions: Experiment with different herbs like basil or parsley for a refreshing twist on flavor without losing the festive charm.
Storage Solutions: Wrap tightly and store in the fridge; enjoy goodness for up to 3 days, making them perfect for last-minute snacking!

Make Ahead Options

These Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups are a fantastic choice for meal prep, saving you precious time on busy holiday days! You can prepare the filling up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix the cream cheese, feta, cranberries, and chives, then refrigerate. Additionally, roll them up and wrap tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring no air can seep in—this prevents the tortillas from becoming dry. They can hold their quality for up to 3 days in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, just slice into your beautiful pinwheels and arrange them on a festive platter. Your guests will be delighted with these effortlessly elegant appetizers, leaving you with more time to enjoy the festivities!

Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups Recipe FAQs

What kind of cranberries should I use?
I recommend using sweetened dried cranberries for a delightful balance of sweet and tart. You can often find them in the baking aisle; just make sure to avoid cranberries with added preservatives if possible for a cleaner flavor profile.

How should I store the Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups?
Keep your roll ups tightly wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. This ensures they maintain their creamy texture and vibrant flavors for your holiday gatherings.

Can I prepare these roll ups in advance?
Absolutely! You can make the Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups up to 24 hours in advance. Just wrap them well and refrigerate. The flavors actually meld together better when allowed to sit, making them even more delicious!

Can I freeze the Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups?
Yes, if you want to extend their shelf life, you can freeze the unwrapped roll ups for up to 2 months. To freeze, place them in an airtight container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap. Defrost them in the fridge overnight before slicing and serving.

What to do if my roll ups won’t slice easily?
If your Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups are difficult to slice, it may be due to insufficient chilling time. Ensure you chill for at least 1 hour, but 2 hours is best for easier cutting. When slicing, use a sharp serrated knife for best results. If they’re still too soft, pop them in the freezer for 15-20 minutes to firm up slightly before slicing.

Are these roll ups suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Make sure to check for allergies, especially with the feta cheese and cream cheese, which are dairy products. For a dairy-free option, try using a plant-based cream cheese alternative and omit the feta or use a non-dairy replacement. They can also be made gluten-free with suitable gluten-free tortillas!