Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups

If you’re looking for a delightful holiday appetizer that’s both easy to make and bursting with flavor, then Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups are for you! These little beauties combine the creamy richness of cheese with the tartness of cranberries, creating a harmonious bite that will impress your guests. I love serving these at family gatherings or even on busy weeknights when I want something special without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a staple in your holiday repertoire!

These roll ups are not only festive but also incredibly versatile. You can prepare them ahead of time, making them perfect for any occasion where time is precious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip these up in no time.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the delicious blend of flavors in every bite.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can assemble these roll ups earlier in the day and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of cream cheese, feta, and cranberries creates a taste sensation that’s hard to resist.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday party or a simple family dinner, these roll ups fit right in!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to make our Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups. These items are easy to find and come together beautifully!

For the Filling

• 8 ounces softened cream cheese
• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/3 cup fresh chives, chopped
• 1 1/2 cups dried cranberries

For the Wrap

• 4 large flour tortillas (10 inches each)

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: PT0M
Total Time: 75 minutes

Variations

What I love about this recipe is how flexible it is! You can easily customize it based on what you have on hand or your taste preferences.

• Add More Greens: Toss in some baby spinach or arugula for an extra crunch and freshness.
• Spice It Up: Include some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick of heat.
• Change the Cheese: Swap feta for goat cheese or ricotta if you prefer a different flavor profile.
• Use Different Tortillas: Try whole wheat or spinach tortillas for added nutrition and color.

How to Make Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Start by mixing together your softened cream cheese, crumbled feta cheese, chopped chives, and dried cranberries in a medium bowl. This step is crucial as it allows all those fabulous flavors to meld together. Use a spatula or mixer to ensure everything is well combined; this will make spreading easier later!

Step 2: Spread the Mixture on Tortillas

Take one tortilla at a time and spread about 1/4 of the filling evenly across its surface. Be sure to leave some space around the edges so you can roll them up neatly. This step helps keep your filling contained when you slice them later.

Step 3: Roll It Up!

Starting from one edge, carefully roll up the tortilla tightly but gently. Aim for a firm roll without squishing out any filling. This technique ensures each slice holds its shape and looks beautiful when plated.

Step 4: Chill Before Slicing

Wrap each rolled tortilla in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour. Chilling helps set the filling and makes slicing much easier. Plus, this is a great opportunity to let those flavors deepen!

Step 5: Slice and Serve

Once chilled, remove from the fridge and unwrap the tortillas. Use a sharp knife to slice into bite-sized pieces—about an inch thick works great! Arrange them on a platter and get ready for compliments from friends and family!

Enjoy making these delightful Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups—they’re sure to be a hit at your next gathering!

Pro Tips for Making Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups

Creating the perfect Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups is easier than you think! Here are some handy tips to make your roll ups even more delightful.

• Soften your cream cheese – Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. This ensures a smooth and creamy filling that spreads easily without tearing the tortillas.
• Chop chives finely – The finer you chop the fresh chives, the more evenly their flavor will distribute throughout the filling. This makes each bite burst with deliciousness!
• Mix in cranberries last – Adding dried cranberries after mixing the cheeses and chives helps maintain their texture and ensures they don’t get crushed in the process.
• Wrap tightly – When rolling up the tortillas, be sure to roll them as tightly as possible without squeezing out the filling. A tight roll will help keep everything together when you slice them.
• Chill before serving – Allowing your roll ups to chill for at least an hour after preparation helps them firm up, making them easier to slice and serve while enhancing the flavors as they meld together.

How to Serve Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups

Presentation is key when it comes to holiday appetizers! These Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups can be served beautifully on a platter, making them a festive addition to your table.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley or cilantro sprigs – A touch of green adds a pop of color and freshness that appeals visually and complements the flavors.
• Cranberry sauce drizzle – A light drizzle of cranberry sauce on top or around the plate enhances both flavor and presentation, giving guests an extra hint of sweetness.

Side Dishes

• Mixed greens salad – A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the roll ups.
• Vegetable platter with hummus – Crisp veggies like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers paired with hummus create a crunchy side that balances out the creamy texture of your roll ups.
• Stuffed mushrooms – These savory bites can be filled with a variety of ingredients like spinach, garlic, and breadcrumbs for an elegant touch that complements your main dish.
• Cheese board with assorted crackers – An assortment of cheeses paired with crunchy crackers offers a delightful contrast in textures while providing additional flavors for guests to enjoy alongside your roll ups.

These ideas will not only elevate your dish but also create an inviting atmosphere that everyone will love during this festive season!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can prepare them in advance to save time during the busy holiday season. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat them:

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover roll ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy them within 3-4 days for the best flavor and freshness.
• If you want to keep them from getting soggy, separate layers with parchment paper.

Freezing

• Wrap each roll up tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• When ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

• To serve warm, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the roll ups on a baking sheet and cover with aluminum foil.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, removing the foil for the last few minutes if you want a bit of crispness.

FAQs

You might have some questions about making these delightful Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups. Let’s tackle those!

Can I make Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare these roll ups ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freeze them. Just remember to wrap them well to keep them fresh!

What can I substitute for cream cheese in Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups?

If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can use a plant-based cream cheese alternative. It works just as well and maintains that creamy texture!

How long do Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups last in the fridge?

These tasty roll ups will stay fresh in your refrigerator for about 3-4 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I use different cheeses for the filling?

Definitely! Feel free to mix it up with other soft cheeses like goat cheese or ricotta. Just ensure they complement the cranberries well!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups! They’re not just appetizers; they’re little bites of holiday cheer that bring people together. Enjoy experimenting with this recipe, and don’t hesitate to put your own twist on it. Happy cooking and happy holidays!