The kitchen is my holiday sanctuary, where the scent of spices and sweet-tart cranberries fills the air. This year, I’m excited to share my Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups, a festive appetizer that merges creamy filling with soft tortillas. Not only does this dish provide a delightful blend of tangy and herbaceous flavors, but it also allows you to prep ahead, making holiday entertaining a breeze. These delicious bites can be served at room temperature, perfect for those busy gatherings where you want to impress without the stress. So, who’s ready to elevate their holiday spread with these charming roll-ups? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why are Cranberry Roll Ups a Must-Try?

Flavorful Fusion: The combination of creamy cheese and tart cranberries creates a harmonious blend of tastes that will leave your guests raving.
User-Friendly: With a simple assembly process, even beginner chefs can whip these up effortlessly!
Make-Ahead Magic: Perfect for busy holiday schedules, you can prep these roll ups ahead of time and store them in the fridge.
Versatile Appetizer: They pair beautifully with various dips, like a warm spinach-artichoke dip, or can be served alongside a cheese platter for added flair.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Their vibrant colors and delightful flavors make them a hit at any gathering, be it a small family dinner or a large festive party.

Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups Ingredients

• Festive and flavorful ingredients await!

For the Filling

Cream Cheese – Provides a creamy texture and serves as the base for the filling. Substitution: Use low-fat cream cheese for a lighter option.
Feta Cheese – Adds a tangy flavor that contrasts deliciously with the sweet cranberries. Note: Sheep’s milk feta is recommended for the best taste.
Dried Cranberries – Offer sweetness and tartness, essential for the festive flavor of your Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups. Substitution: Use fresh cranberries mixed with a bit of sugar if available.
Fresh Chives – Enhance the herbaceous note and provide a pop of color. Note: Substituting with green onions or parsley can work well.

For the Wrapper

Flour Tortillas – The ideal wrapper that holds the filling together. Substitution: Whole wheat or spinach tortillas for added flavor or dietary preferences.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups

Step 1: Prep Cheese Filling
Start by softening the cream cheese at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Beat the cream cheese in a large mixing bowl with an electric mixer on medium speed until fluffy and smooth, which should take about 2–3 minutes. This step creates the creamy base essential for your Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Once the cream cheese is fluffy, gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, and chopped chives. Use a spatula to mix all the ingredients until thoroughly combined, ensuring the vibrant colors are well distributed. This mixture should be creamy with specks of red and green, showcasing the festive spirit of the roll-ups.

Step 3: Spread Mixture
Lay out your flour tortillas on a clean surface or cutting board. Using a spatula, evenly spread the creamy filling on each tortilla, leaving about a half-inch border around the edges. This ensures that when you roll them up, the filling doesn’t spill out and allows for a tidy presentation of your Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups.

Step 4: Roll Tortillas
Starting from one edge, tightly roll each tortilla into a log shape, ensuring you keep the filling secure as you go. Avoid applying too much pressure, as this may cause the filling to squeeze out. Aim to have the seam side down to keep the roll together. Repeat this with all tortillas until you have several filled logs ready for chilling.

Step 5: Wrap & Chill
Wrap each rolled tortilla tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring there are no gaps. Refrigerate the wrapped roll-ups for at least 1 hour, or up to 24 hours for best flavor melding. Chilling them allows the filling to firm up, making the slices neater when you’re ready to serve your Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups.

Step 6: Slice & Serve
Once chilled, remove the plastic wrap and place the rolls on a cutting board. Using a sharp serrated knife, slice each roll into your desired thickness, usually about 1-inch pieces. Arrange the beautiful pinwheel shapes on a serving platter, ready to impress your guests with these colorful and tasty Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups.

How to Store and Freeze Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups

Fridge: Store roll ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps to keep the flavors fresh and delicious.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the wrapped roll ups for up to 2 months. Once ready to serve, thaw in the fridge overnight before slicing.

Slicing: For best results, slice the chilled rolls just before serving. This keeps the textures intact and makes the Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups even more appealing.

Make-Ahead: Prepare the roll ups up to 24 hours ahead and allow them to sit in the fridge, which gives the filling time to meld and enhances the flavors.

What to Serve with Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups

Enhance your holiday meal with delightful sides and beverages that perfectly complement these creamy, tangy bite-sized delights.

Creamy Spinach-Artichoke Dip: A warm, cheesy dip adds a comforting element to your appetizer spread and balances the tartness of the roll ups.
Cheese Platter: Include a variety of cheeses and crackers to enrich the flavors, inviting your guests to indulge in a delightful tasting experience.
Fresh Veggies: Crunchy cucumbers and sweet bell peppers offer a refreshing contrast to the creaminess, encouraging guests to snack without guilt.
Homemade Pita Chips: These crispy chips bring an extra layer of flavor and texture, making for a perfect pairing with your savory rolls.
Tangy Cranberry Sauce: Serve a side of cranberry sauce to amplify the tart cranberry notes, enhancing the holiday spirit of your dish.
Sparkling Wine: A glass of bubbly will elevate your gathering and underscore the festive vibe. Its effervescence pairs beautifully with creamy appetizers.
Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: Conclude your meal with these sweet treats. Their juiciness and subtle sweetness contrast wonderfully with the savory flavors of the roll ups.
Herbed Olive Oil Dipping Sauce: A flavorful dip made with fresh herbs and olive oil invites guests to enjoy the roll ups with an Italian twist.

Each pairing not only adds depth to your spread but also captures the warmth and joy of holiday gatherings.

Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups Variations

Feel free to let your creativity run wild with these delightful roll-ups and make them your own!

Spinach Boost: Add chopped spinach to the cheese filling for extra nutrients and a lovely green color. The flavor blends beautifully with the cranberries!
Bell Pepper Crunch: Finely diced bell peppers introduce a subtle sweetness and extra crunch. This simple addition can elevate the texture and aesthetics of your roll-ups.
Herb Substitute: Swap fresh chives with dill or parsley to switch up the herbaceous notes. Depending on your choice, this can give a fresher or more aromatic profile to your filling.
Whole Wheat Wrap: Use whole wheat or spinach tortillas for a heartier flavor and added nutrition. These wraps not only taste great but also add to the festive look of your roll-ups.
Flavored Cream Cheese: Experiment with flavored cream cheeses, such as garlic & herb, for a savory twist. This enhances the creaminess while providing a new taste profile.
Fresh Cranberries: Substitute dried cranberries with fresh cranberries mixed with sugar for a burst of tartness. This change keeps the filling zesty and vibrant during the holiday season.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture for a little heat. It balances beautifully with the sweetness of the cranberries!
Sweet Sprinkle: For a sweet-tangy twist, mix in some chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling. This not only adds crunch but also a delightful contrast to the creamy base.

By incorporating these variations, your Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups can become a unique dish every time—much like the ones you’ll find in delightful treats like Cinnamon Roll Cookies or festive Shortcake Cake Rolls. Explore the world of flavor possibilities and let the holiday spirit shine through your creations!

Make Ahead Options

These Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to simplify their holiday entertaining! You can prepare the filling up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply combine the softened cream cheese, feta, dried cranberries, and chives, then wrap the completed roll-ups tightly in plastic wrap and chill. When you’re ready to serve, slice the chilled rolls into bite-sized pieces and arrange them on a platter. They remain fresh for up to 3 days, so you can enjoy stress-free hosting, knowing these delicious appetizers will still taste just as delightful!

Expert Tips for Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups

Even Spacing: Ensure the filling is evenly spread to prevent uneven rolls. This helps create beautiful pinwheels of your Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups.
Tight Rolls: Roll tortillas tightly but gently to prevent the filling from spilling out. A secure roll maintains the roll-ups’ shape when sliced.
Chilling Time: Refrigerate the rolled tortillas for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld. Longer chilling makes for cleaner slices and a firmer filling.
Sharp Knife: Use a sharp serrated knife to slice the chilled rolls. This minimizes squishing and sacrifices presentation for your tasty Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups.
Fresh Ingredients: Use freshly chopped chives and quality cheeses for the best flavor. Freshness enhances the overall appeal of your delightful appetizer.

Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups Recipe FAQs

What kind of cranberries should I use for the roll-ups?
Dried cranberries are perfect for these roll-ups, as they provide the essential sweetness and tartness. However, if you can find fresh cranberries, you can mix them with a bit of sugar to mimic that sweet flavor. I lean towards dried for ease, especially during the busy holidays!

How should I store my leftover roll-ups?
Absolutely! Store your Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ensures the flavors stay intact! Just make sure they are well-wrapped to prevent drying out.

Can I freeze Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups?
Yes, you can freeze them! To do so, wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag or airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight for the best results.

What if my filling is too runny?
If you find your filling is too runny, it may be due to overmixing or not chilling the cream cheese enough. Here’s what to do: mix in some additional crumbled feta or even a bit of powdered sugar to thicken it up. Ensure your cream cheese is properly softened, and chill the mixture briefly before spreading it on the tortillas.

Are these roll-ups suitable for people with dairy allergies?
Sadly, this recipe uses cream and feta cheeses, which wouldn’t work for those with dairy allergies. However, feel free to experiment with dairy-free cream cheese alternatives available on the market. Just check the labels to find one that’s mild in flavor, and match it with a non-dairy feta if possible for that tangy kick.

How can I ensure my roll-ups have even slices?
To achieve those beautiful, even slices, make sure to chill the roll-ups for at least 2 hours. Use a sharp serrated knife to slice them, and cut them with a gentle sawing motion rather than pressing down hard, which can squish your lovely filling and mess with the presentation!