Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups

If you’re looking for a delightful appetizer that combines creamy, tangy flavors with a touch of sweetness, then my Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups are just the thing! These little bites are perfect for holiday gatherings, busy weeknights, or even a cozy family dinner. They come together quickly and can be made ahead of time, which makes them ideal when you’re hosting or just want to impress your loved ones with minimal effort.

What I love most about these roll ups is how they balance rich cream cheese and feta with the bright burst of dried cranberries. It’s a flavor combination that everyone seems to adore, making them an instant hit at any table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super easy to make: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip these up before your guests arrive!
• Family-friendly: Kids love the fun presentation and delicious taste—making it a hit for everyone.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare them in advance, store them in the fridge, and slice right before serving.
• Flavor-packed: The blend of creamy cheeses and sweet cranberries offers a delightful explosion of taste in every bite.
• Versatile: Perfect as an appetizer or light snack, they fit into any occasion seamlessly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups use simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather what you need to get started!

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)

This recipe serves 4 people and takes only 15 minutes to prepare. Let’s get rolling!

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add some crunch: Toss in some finely chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture.
• Spice it up: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne for a spicy kick.
• Herb it up: Experiment with different herbs like parsley or dill instead of chives for varied flavors.
• Go gluten-free: Use gluten-free tortillas to make these roll ups suitable for everyone.

How to Make Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and crumbled feta cheese. Using a hand mixer or fork, blend them until smooth. This step is key because it creates a creamy base that will hold all the delicious flavors together. The contrast between the tangy feta and creamy cream cheese really sets the stage for this dish!

Step 2: Add Flavors

Next, fold in the chopped chives and dried cranberries into the cheese mixture. Stir gently until everything is well incorporated. This is where the magic happens! The freshness from the chives complements the sweetness of the cranberries beautifully.

Step 3: Assemble Your Roll Ups

Take one tortilla and spread about a quarter of the filling evenly over it. Be sure to leave a small border around the edges so you can roll it up easily. Rolling creates those delightful layers and keeps all that tasty filling snug inside!

Step 4: Roll It Up

Starting from one end, roll the tortilla tightly but not too tight—just enough to hold everything inside without squishing it out. Repeat this process with each tortilla until all your filling is used up. Once rolled, place them seam-side down on a cutting board.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

Using a sharp knife, cut each roll into bite-sized pieces—about one-inch thick works great! Arrange them on a platter for serving. Don’t forget to admire your handiwork; these Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups are not only delicious but also look stunning on any table!

Now you’re ready to enjoy these delectable treats! They’re sure to bring smiles and compliments from everyone who tries them. Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups

Crafting the perfect Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups is a breeze with these simple tips!

• Soften Your Cream Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature for smooth mixing. This makes it easier to blend with the feta and ensures a creamy texture in every bite.

• Chop Chives Finely: Finely chopped chives add a delightful freshness and vibrant color to your roll ups. This enhances the overall presentation while balancing the flavors beautifully.

• Use Fresh Tortillas: Fresh tortillas will make rolling much easier and provide a better texture. Stale tortillas can crack, leading to messy roll ups that might not hold their shape.

• Chill Before Slicing: After assembling, chilling your roll ups for at least 30 minutes helps them set, making slicing easier and ensuring they hold together when served.

• Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to mix in other ingredients like spinach or roasted red peppers. This adds variety and creates a unique twist on the classic flavor profile.

How to Serve Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups

These delicious roll ups are not only easy to make but also visually appealing, making them perfect for any holiday gathering. Here are some ideas on how to present them beautifully!

Garnishes

• Fresh Herb Sprigs: Adding small sprigs of parsley or dill on top of each roll up gives a pop of color and freshness.
• Cranberry Sauce Drizzle: A light drizzle of homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce adds an extra touch of sweetness and pairs well with the savory flavors.

Side Dishes

• Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the roll ups while adding crunch.
• Vegetable Platter: Pair with an assortment of crunchy vegetables like carrots, cucumber, and bell peppers for dipping in hummus or tzatziki sauce, enhancing the appetizer experience.
• Cheese Board: Create a cheese board featuring various cheeses (like cheddar or gouda), nuts, and dried fruits. It provides a nice contrast to the roll ups while giving guests more options.
• Stuffed Mini Peppers: These colorful bites can be filled with cream cheese or herbed cheese spread, offering another flavorful option alongside your roll ups.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups are sure to impress friends and family alike! Enjoy creating a festive atmosphere around this delightful dish during your holiday celebrations.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups are perfect for meal prep! Whether you’re planning a festive gathering or simply want to have some delicious snacks ready for the week, these roll ups can be made ahead of time and stored easily.

Storing Leftovers

• Keep any leftover roll ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• If possible, store them with parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking.

Freezing

• For longer storage, you can freeze the roll ups before slicing.
• Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just remember to label the bag!

Reheating

• If you’ve frozen your roll ups, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Enjoy them cold as well; they’re tasty either way!

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups.

Can I use different types of cheese in Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like goat cheese or cream cheese blends. Just remember that the flavor will change a bit based on your choice!

How do I prevent my tortillas from cracking when making Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups?

To prevent cracking, warm your tortillas briefly in the microwave or on a skillet before rolling. This makes them more pliable and easier to work with.

Can I add other ingredients to my Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups?

Yes! Feel free to add ingredients like spinach, roasted red peppers, or even nuts for extra crunch and flavor. Customize it according to your taste preferences!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making these Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups as much as I do! They bring a delightful mix of flavors that are perfect for sharing during the holiday season. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe out; it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering! Happy cooking and enjoy every bite!