The holidays are here, and if you’re anything like me, you’re looking for something quick, easy, and festive to bring to your next gathering. As a busy mom, I know how precious time is, especially during this season! That’s why I’m so excited to share my recipe for Festive Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups. These little bites of joy are incredibly simple to make, require minimal effort, and are always a crowd-pleaser. With a prep time of just 10 minutes, plus an hour to chill, these Festive Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups will be the star of your appetizer spread.
Table of contents
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love These Festive Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups
- Ready in minutes; these require almost no active cooking time.
- The perfect balance of sweet and savory that everyone will love.
- They add a festive touch to any holiday table.
- These are so easy to customize with different cheeses, herbs, or spices.
Quick & Easy Festive Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups
Ingredients
Method
- First, combine all ingredients except tortillas, and mix well in a bowl. Make sure everything is evenly distributed.
- Next, divide the mixture and spread it evenly among the two tortillas, covering the surface completely.
- Then, roll each tortilla up tightly, wrap them in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least one hour. This chilling time is crucial for the roll-ups to hold their shape!
- Finally, to serve, cut each roll into 12 slices, creating perfect little pinwheels. Arrange them on a platter and watch them disappear!
Notes
Ingredients for Festive Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups
- 3/4 cup dried sweetened cranberries
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, room temperature
- 3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onion
- 2 large flour tortillas (wheat or spinach for pretty color)
Ingredient Spotlight: Why These Ingredients Work
Dried cranberries add a burst of sweetness and a chewy texture that perfectly complements the savory cheeses. I love using sweetened dried cranberries for this recipe because they provide the right amount of moisture, without making the roll-ups soggy.
Cream cheese forms the base of our filling, creating a creamy and rich texture that binds all the ingredients together. Make sure it’s at room temperature so it mixes smoothly! Full-fat cream cheese gives the best flavor and consistency.
Feta cheese adds a salty and tangy counterpoint to the sweetness of the cranberries. The crumbled texture distributes evenly throughout the roll-ups, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
Green onion provides a fresh, mild onion flavor that brightens up the whole dish. It adds a pop of color and a subtle sharpness that balances the richness of the cheese.
Large flour tortillas act as the perfect vessel for our filling. I like to use either wheat or spinach tortillas for a touch of added flavor and color. The tortillas are soft and pliable, making them easy to roll tightly.
How to Make Festive Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups: Step-by-Step
First, combine all ingredients except tortillas, and mix well in a bowl. Make sure everything is evenly distributed.
Next, divide the mixture and spread it evenly among the two tortillas, covering the surface completely.
Then, roll each tortilla up tightly, wrap them in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least one hour. This chilling time is crucial for the roll-ups to hold their shape!
Finally, to serve, cut each roll into 12 slices, creating perfect little pinwheels. Arrange them on a platter and watch them disappear!
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Roll Ups
If your cream cheese is too cold, microwave it for 10 seconds at a time until softened, but not melted. Work with a slightly softened cream cheese, which makes it much easier to mix.
When spreading the filling, leave a small border along one edge of the tortilla. This helps seal the roll-up and prevents the filling from oozing out.
Roll the tortillas as tightly as possible to ensure the pinwheels hold their shape. A tight roll also prevents air pockets from forming inside.
To prevent the tortillas from drying out, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before refrigerating. This will keep them fresh and pliable.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
If your filling is too runny, it could be because the cream cheese wasn’t at room temperature. Make sure it’s properly softened before mixing. Adding a tablespoon of powdered sugar can also help thicken the mixture.
If your tortillas are tearing, they might be too dry. Lightly dampen them with a paper towel before spreading the filling.
If your pinwheels are falling apart, it’s likely because they weren’t chilled long enough. Make sure to refrigerate them for at least an hour before slicing.
Recipe Variations: Customize Your Roll Ups
| Variation | Ingredients | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Goat Cheese & Walnut | Goat cheese, chopped walnuts, cranberries | Tangy and nutty flavor profile. |
| Herb & Garlic | Cream cheese, garlic powder, fresh dill | Savory and aromatic; omit cranberries for a different twist. |
| Spicy Kick | Cream cheese, jalapeño, cheddar cheese | Adds heat and a cheesy flavor. |
| Vegan Option | Dairy-free cream cheese, vegan feta | Use plant-based alternatives to enjoy a vegan-friendly version. |
Serving Suggestions for Festive Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups
Arrange the roll-ups on a festive platter, garnished with fresh cranberries and sprigs of rosemary. This will add a pop of color and holiday cheer.
Serve them with a side of cranberry sauce or a honey-mustard dip for extra flavor. These sauces complement the sweetness and savoriness of the roll-ups perfectly.
Pair them with other appetizers like cheese and crackers, vegetable sticks, or mini quiches for a well-rounded spread.
A glass of chilled white wine or sparkling cider makes a wonderful accompaniment to these roll-ups.
How to Store Leftover Cranberry Roll Ups
Store leftover roll-ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to three days.
To prevent them from becoming soggy, place a layer of paper towels in the bottom of the container to absorb any excess moisture.
Can You Prepare Festive Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups in Advance?
Yes, absolutely! These roll-ups are perfect for making ahead of time. You can prepare them up to 24 hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator.
Wait to slice them until just before serving to prevent them from drying out. This will ensure they look and taste their best.
Festive Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups: Substitutions Guide
| Ingredient | Substitution Options | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dried Cranberries | Fresh Cranberries (cooked and sweetened) | Adjust sweetness to taste; cook cranberries down to reduce moisture. |
| Feta Cheese | Goat Cheese, Parmesan Cheese, or Vegan Feta | Adjust seasoning accordingly. |
| Cream Cheese | Neufchâtel Cheese (lower fat), Vegan Cream Cheese | May slightly alter the texture. |
| Flour Tortillas | Spinach Tortillas, Whole Wheat Tortillas | Adds visual appeal or fiber. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these vegan?
Yes, you can! Just substitute the cream cheese and feta cheese with vegan alternatives. There are many great plant-based options available at most grocery stores.
Can I use fresh cranberries?
You can use fresh cranberries, but you’ll need to cook and sweeten them first. Simmer them with a little sugar and water until they soften, then let them cool before adding them to the filling.
What other cheeses can I use?
Goat cheese, Parmesan cheese, and even a sharp cheddar can be used in place of feta. Experiment with different flavors to find your favorite combination!
How long will these last in the fridge?
These roll-ups will last for up to three days in the refrigerator, stored in an airtight container.
Can these be frozen?
I don’t recommend freezing these, as the texture of the cream cheese and tortillas can change upon thawing.
How far in advance can you make pinwheels?
You can make these up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to slice and serve.
How do you keep pinwheels from getting soggy?
To prevent sogginess, make sure to wrap the roll-ups tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container with a layer of paper towels to absorb excess moisture.
What kind of tortillas are best for pinwheels?
Large flour tortillas work best because they are pliable and easy to roll. You can use wheat, spinach, or even flavored tortillas for added variety.
Conclusion
These Festive Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups are the perfect appetizer for your holiday gatherings. They’re quick, easy, and packed with festive flavors that everyone will love. Trust me; you’ll be the star of the party!
Now, I’d love to hear from you! Have you tried making roll-ups before? What are your favorite fillings? Share your thoughts and questions in the comments below, and don’t forget to tag me in your creations on social media! I can’t wait to see how you make these your own!
