Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups Recipe

If you’re looking for a festive appetizer that perfectly balances tangy, creamy, and sweet, look no further than these Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups. They are bursting with vibrant flavors, featuring the savory punch of feta, the creaminess of whipped cream cheese, the fresh zing of chives, and the delightful pop of dried cranberries all wrapped snugly in soft tortillas. These roll ups are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any holiday gathering, delivering a beautifully colorful bite that’s both simple to make and irresistibly delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting your hands on these simple but essential ingredients is the first step to creating the perfect Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups. Each component plays a crucial role, contributing to the luscious texture, vibrant color, and rich flavor profile that make this dish so enjoyable.

• 8 ounces softened cream cheese: Provides the creamy, smooth base that binds all other flavors together deliciously.
• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled: Adds a tangy saltiness that beautifully contrasts the sweetness of the cranberries.
• 1/3 cup fresh chives, chopped: Brings a fresh, mild onion flavor and a lovely green burst to brighten the roll ups.
• 1 1/2 cups dried cranberries: Delivers chewy sweetness and stunning red color, the star of this festive recipe.
• 4 large flour tortillas (10 inches each): Serve as the soft, flexible wraps holding all the goodness together in neat, scroll-like shapes.

How to Make Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups

Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture

Begin by placing the softened cream cheese in a small bowl and beating it until fluffy and smooth. This simple whipping step is key because it creates a luscious, creamy texture that will make mixing in the other ingredients a breeze while ensuring a light, spreadable base for the filling.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

Next, add the crumbled feta, chopped fresh chives, and dried cranberries to the whipped cream cheese. Stir everything thoroughly until well combined into a uniform spread. This careful mixing guarantees that every bite of your Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups bursts with balanced flavor and pleasing texture.

Step 3: Spread and Roll

Lay out each tortilla and spread an even layer of the cream cheese mixture across the entire surface. This step is crucial to ensure a balanced flavor in every single slice. Once evenly coated, roll the tortilla tightly into a log shape, which helps keep the filling snug inside and makes for beautifully neat pinwheel slices.

Step 4: Chill and Slice

Wrap each rolled tortilla securely in plastic wrap to maintain its shape and lock in freshness. Letting them chill before slicing makes it easier to cut clean, uniform pieces that hold together perfectly without the filling oozing out.

How to Serve Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups

Garnishes

Adding a few fresh chives sprinkled on top adds a lovely pop of color and a hint of fresh onion flavor that elevates the look and taste. If you want a touch of elegance, a drizzle of honey or a few whole dried cranberries on each slice can make your presentation extra special.

Side Dishes

These roll ups pair wonderfully with crisp winter greens or a simple arugula salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. You might also serve them alongside a bowl of roasted nuts or marinated olives to add some hearty, savory contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, arrange the roll ups on a circular platter to mimic a Christmas wreath. You can tuck sprigs of rosemary or pine-needle-like herbs around the edges for an aromatic and thematic presentation that guests will adore. Alternatively, stack them on a tiered serving tray for an eye-catching holiday spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days when wrapped tightly. Storing them correctly preserves their freshness and prevents the tortillas from drying out, allowing you to enjoy the same bold flavors even the next day.

Freezing

While it’s best to serve these roll ups fresh, you can freeze them for up to 1 month. Wrap each tortilla tightly in plastic wrap and then place in an airtight freezer bag. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before slicing and serving.

Reheating

Since these roll ups are best served cold or at room temperature, reheating is not recommended. Let them sit at room temperature for 15 minutes after coming out of the fridge for the best flavor and texture.

FAQs

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

Absolutely! While feta offers a tangy sharpness, you can experiment with goat cheese or ricotta for a milder, creamier filling. Just keep the balance of flavors in mind.

Are these roll ups suitable for a vegetarian diet?

Yes, this recipe is completely vegetarian as it contains no meat or animal-based gelatin. Just be sure to check your feta for vegetarian certification if needed.

Can I make these ahead of time for a party?

Definitely. These roll ups benefit from chilling for at least an hour before slicing to ensure they hold their shape and flavors meld perfectly, making them a perfect make-ahead appetizer.

What can I substitute for dried cranberries?

If you want to switch it up, dried cherries or currants offer a similar sweet-tart note and chewy texture that pair wonderfully with the creamy filling.

How should I slice the roll ups for serving?

Use a sharp knife to cut the chilled rolls into 1-inch thick slices for bite-sized pinwheels that are easy to pick up and enjoy at any gathering.

Final Thoughts

These Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups are a delightful way to bring a burst of color and flavor to your holiday table with minimal fuss. They are fun to make, easy to customize, and guaranteed to impress everyone with their perfect mix of creamy, savory, and sweet. Trust me, once you try them, they will quickly become your new seasonal favorite that you’ll want to share year after year!

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