If you’re on the hunt for a bite-sized appetizer that bursts with color, flavor, and festive charm, look no further than this Festive Christmas Cranberry Cream Cheese Roll-Ups Recipe. These delightful pinwheels bring together the creamy tang of softened cream cheese, the sweet chew of dried cranberries, the satisfying crunch of nuts, and the zing of sharp cheddar all wrapped snugly in soft tortillas. Perfectly chilled and sliced, these roll-ups are as stunning on your holiday platter as they are delicious in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just craving a cheerful snack, this recipe will quickly become a beloved staple in your seasonal repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients with big personalities come together effortlessly for this recipe. Each element is selected not only for its taste but also for the texture and festive look it adds to the roll-ups.
- 2 large flour tortillas (burrito-size): The soft, pliable base that holds all the ingredients together and makes slicing easy.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Provides the creamy, smooth texture that binds the filling with a mild tangy flavor.
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped: Adds sweet, chewy pops of fruitiness and a beautiful holiday red hue.
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts: Offers a delightful crunch and nutty depth to contrast the creaminess.
- 1/2 cup finely shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Brings a savory sharpness that complements the sweet cranberries perfectly.
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions: Adds a fresh, mild onion bite and a pop of green color.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses subtle aromatic warmth enhancing all the layers of flavor.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and highlights the individual flavors in the filling.
How to Make Festive Christmas Cranberry Cream Cheese Roll-Ups Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
Start by softening the cream cheese until it’s easy to blend, then combine it in a bowl with the chopped dried cranberries, nuts, shredded cheddar, green onions, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Mixing well is key to distributing every flavor evenly so each bite of your roll-up bursts with holiday cheer.
Step 2: Spread the Filling on Tortillas
Lay out your tortillas on a flat surface and evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over each one, reaching all the way to the edges. This ensures every slice will have a perfect, colorful pinwheel appearance and a satisfying bite of filling.
Step 3: Roll and Chill
Roll each tortilla up tightly from one end to the other, then wrap them in plastic wrap. Pop them into the refrigerator for at least an hour. Chilling firms up the cream cheese, which makes slicing into neat pinwheels a breeze and helps maintain their shape during serving.
Step 4: Slice and Serve
Once chilled, use a sharp knife to cut the rolled tortillas into 1/2-inch thick pinwheels. Arrange these vibrant roll-ups on a festive platter, ready to wow your guests with their eye-catching colors and irresistible flavors.
How to Serve Festive Christmas Cranberry Cream Cheese Roll-Ups Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling an extra handful of chopped pecans or a light dusting of fresh chopped parsley on your platter adds that final elegant and festive touch. A light drizzle of honey or a few fresh cranberries can also elevate the presentation for a sweet-glossy finish.
Side Dishes
These roll-ups pair wonderfully with a crisp winter salad, roasted red pepper hummus, or even a simple bowl of mixed nuts. Their creamy texture and bold notes of cheese and fruit balance nicely with lighter, fresh sides.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming holiday party, serve the pinwheels on a wooden charcuterie board alongside slices of seasonal cheeses, assorted crackers, and fresh herbs. You can also stake mini cocktail picks into each roll-up piece to make them easy finger foods at a festive gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover roll-ups keep wonderfully in the refrigerator when wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. They stay fresh and tasty for up to 2 days, making them perfect for prepping in advance or enjoying as snacks later.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, it’s best to freeze the assembled roll-ups before slicing, wrapped very well to prevent freezer burn. Thaw them overnight in the fridge and slice before serving to keep the texture intact.
Reheating
Since these roll-ups are served cold or at room temperature, reheating is not necessary and can alter their fresh, creamy texture. Simply let refrigerated roll-ups sit for a few minutes at room temperature before serving if they feel too firm.
FAQs
Can I use gluten-free tortillas for this recipe?
Absolutely! Gluten-free tortillas work great and allow those with gluten sensitivities to enjoy this Festive Christmas Cranberry Cream Cheese Roll-Ups Recipe without compromising on taste or texture.
What nuts can I substitute if I don’t have pecans or walnuts?
Feel free to use almonds, cashews, or even pistachios for a unique twist. Just make sure they’re chopped finely so they blend seamlessly into the cream cheese filling.
Can I add fresh herbs to the filling?
Yes, adding herbs like fresh thyme, rosemary, or chives can add an extra layer of flavor and brighten the roll-ups beautifully, enhancing their festive appeal.
How far in advance can I make these roll-ups?
You can prepare and refrigerate the roll-ups up to 24 hours ahead. This makes the Festive Christmas Cranberry Cream Cheese Roll-Ups Recipe an excellent make-ahead appetizer that saves you stress on the big day.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?
To make it vegan, substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based alternative, use dairy-free cheddar shreds, and confirm your tortillas are egg and dairy-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan-friendly.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say this Festive Christmas Cranberry Cream Cheese Roll-Ups Recipe is a must-try for the holiday season. It’s simple to make, packed with festive flavors, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that dresses up any party table. Whether you’re preparing appetizers for a family gathering or a cheerful cocktail evening, these pinwheels bring comfort and joy in every bite. So grab those ingredients, get rolling, and share this festive favorite with your loved ones — it’s sure to become a holiday tradition you cherish!
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Festive Christmas Cranberry Cream Cheese Roll-Ups Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 20–24 roll ups
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Festive Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups are a delightful, no-cook appetizer featuring cream cheese blended with dried cranberries, nuts, sharp cheddar, and green onions, all rolled into soft flour tortillas and chilled to perfection. These colorful pinwheels offer a sweet and savory twist perfect for holiday parties and easy make-ahead entertaining.
Ingredients
Roll Ups Ingredients
- 2 large flour tortillas (burrito-size)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 1/2 cup finely shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, thoroughly mix the softened cream cheese with the chopped dried cranberries, nuts, shredded cheddar cheese, green onions, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt until evenly combined to create a flavorful filling.
- Spread the Filling: Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over each large flour tortilla, ensuring it reaches all the way to the edges for full flavor in every bite.
- Roll and Wrap: Carefully roll each tortilla up tightly into a log shape, then wrap each roll securely in plastic wrap to maintain shape and freshness during chilling.
- Chill the Roll Ups: Place the wrapped rolls in the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour, allowing the filling to firm up and making them easier to slice.
- Slice and Serve: Once chilled, use a sharp knife to cut each roll into 1/2-inch thick pinwheel slices. Arrange the slices on a serving platter and serve chilled or at room temperature for a festive appetizer presentation.
Notes
- These roll ups can be prepared a day ahead and stored refrigerated until slicing and serving.
- For a sweet-savory flavor enhancement, add a tablespoon of orange zest or drizzle with honey before rolling.
- For gluten-free options, substitute with gluten-free tortillas.
