Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These cranberry roll ups are the ultimate holiday appetizer — quick, make-ahead, and bursting with festive flavor. The tartness of the cranberries pairs beautifully with creamy cheese and savory fillings, while the tortilla wraps make them easy to serve and eat. They’re a crowd-pleaser that looks impressive but requires minimal effort, perfect for entertaining during the busy holiday season. Plus, you can easily customize them with different meats, cheeses, and herbs to suit any crowd.
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Festive Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups: A Holiday Appetizer Everyone Will Love
- Total Time: 1 hr 15 mins (including chilling)
- Yield: 24 roll-ups
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Festive Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups are colorful, bite-sized tortilla pinwheels filled with a creamy mixture of dried cranberries, green onions, and cream cheese. These make-ahead appetizers are perfect for holiday gatherings, offering a sweet-tangy flavor with a festive red and green touch.
Ingredients
- 4 large flour tortillas (10-inch size)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup finely chopped pecans (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon honey or cranberry sauce (optional, for sweetness)
Instructions
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, chopped cranberries, shredded cheese, green onions, pecans (if using), garlic powder, salt, pepper, and honey or cranberry sauce. Mix until fully combined and creamy.
- Lay a tortilla flat and spread a generous layer of the cream cheese mixture evenly across the surface, leaving a small border at the edges.
- Roll the tortilla tightly into a log, making sure the filling stays even inside.
- Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
- Wrap each rolled tortilla in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (this helps them firm up for easier slicing).
- When ready to serve, unwrap and slice each roll into 1-inch pinwheels.
- Arrange on a platter and garnish with extra cranberries or herbs for a festive touch.
Notes
- For extra holiday flair, use spinach and tomato tortillas for green and red color contrast.
- Can be made up to 24 hours ahead and stored in the fridge until ready to serve.
- Try adding turkey slices or ham for a savory protein twist.
- Best served chilled or at room temperature as a party appetizer.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Flour Tortillas: The base of the roll ups — soft, pliable, and perfect for wrapping the creamy filling. Choose large burrito-size tortillas for easy rolling.
Cream Cheese: The creamy binder that holds everything together. Use softened cream cheese for smooth spreading — flavored versions like chive or garlic add an extra kick.
Dried Cranberries: Sweet, tart, and perfectly chewy, they bring a pop of festive flavor and color to each bite.
Turkey or Ham Slices: Adds a savory element that complements the sweetness of the cranberries. Thinly sliced deli meat works best for layering.
Shredded Cheese: Sharp cheddar or Swiss cheese adds richness and depth. You can also try white cheddar for a milder flavor.
Green Onions or Chives: Fresh herbs that brighten the flavor and balance the creaminess.
Spinach Leaves (optional): For a fresh, vibrant layer of color that enhances the presentation and adds a touch of crunch.
Honey or Cranberry Sauce: A light drizzle adds sweetness and ties all the flavors together.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that round out the filling without overpowering the festive flavors.
Directions
In a medium bowl, mix softened cream cheese, shredded cheese, cranberries, chopped green onions, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until everything is evenly combined.
Lay one flour tortilla flat and spread a generous layer of the cream cheese mixture over the entire surface. Place a few slices of turkey or ham evenly on top, followed by a thin layer of spinach leaves (if using).
Starting from one end, roll the tortilla tightly into a log. Wrap the roll in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up — this makes slicing cleaner and easier.
Once chilled, remove the wrap and cut the tortilla into 1-inch slices using a sharp knife. Arrange the roll ups on a festive serving platter and drizzle lightly with honey or cranberry sauce before serving. Garnish with extra chopped chives or dried cranberries for a touch of color.
Essential Equipment
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes approximately 24 roll ups (about 8 servings). Prep time takes only 15 minutes, plus 1 hour of chilling time. It’s an easy make-ahead appetizer that frees you up for entertaining.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best texture, serve chilled or at room temperature. Avoid freezing, as the cream cheese filling can separate once thawed.
Variations and Customizations
Cranberry Pecan Delight
Add chopped toasted pecans to the filling for a nutty crunch that enhances the sweetness of the cranberries.
Vegetarian Version
Skip the meat and add thinly sliced cucumbers, roasted red peppers, or extra spinach for a fresh vegetarian twist.
Spicy Kick
Mix a spoonful of jalapeño jelly or a dash of hot sauce into the cream cheese mixture for a sweet-heat combo.
Festive Goat Cheese Roll Ups
Replace the cream cheese with whipped goat cheese for a tangier flavor and creamier texture.
Holiday Turkey Cranberry Classic
Use leftover Thanksgiving turkey and cranberry sauce for a flavorful post-holiday snack.
Sweet and Savory Brie Version
Spread a layer of softened brie instead of cream cheese and add a drizzle of honey for a luxurious touch.
FAQs
1. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, prepare and refrigerate them up to 24 hours before serving — just slice right before plating.
2. Can I use whole wheat tortillas?
Absolutely! They add a nutty flavor and a bit more texture.
3. What’s the best cheese for these roll ups?
Sharp cheddar, Swiss, or even pepper jack for a touch of spice.
4. Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Dried are best for texture, but you can use finely chopped fresh ones for extra tartness.
5. How do I keep the tortillas from cracking?
Use room-temperature tortillas and don’t overfill them.
6. Can I make them vegetarian?
Yes, skip the turkey or ham and add extra veggies like spinach, peppers, or cucumbers.
7. How thick should I slice them?
About 1 inch thick for bite-sized pieces that hold together well.
8. What’s the best way to serve them?
Chilled or at room temperature, arranged on a festive platter for the holidays.
9. Can I add nuts?
Yes, chopped pecans or walnuts add great texture and a toasty flavor.
10. Can I use flavored cream cheese?
Yes — garlic herb, chive, or honey pecan cream cheese work wonderfully.
Conclusion
Festive Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups are the perfect combination of flavor, color, and simplicity — a holiday appetizer that looks elegant yet comes together in minutes. With their blend of creamy cheese, tangy cranberries, and savory filling, these pinwheels are a crowd favorite that will brighten any table. Whether you serve them at a Christmas party, family gathering, or as a cheerful snack, they capture the spirit of the season in every bite — vibrant, flavorful, and full of joy.
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