Festive Cranberry Roll-Ups: Perfect Holiday Appetizer

Looking to add a festive and flavorful touch to your holiday spread? Look no further than these delectable Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll-Ups! Perfect for gatherings, these roll-ups are a delightful blend of cream cheese, feta, chives, and dried cranberries, all wrapped up in a soft flour tortilla. The creamy tang of the cheese paired with the sweetness of the cranberries creates a truly addictive bite that will have your guests coming back for more.

These Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll-Ups have become a beloved tradition at my holiday gatherings, and for good reason. The salty kick of feta perfectly complements the tart cranberries, making each bite burst with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a festive party or simply looking for a cozy appetizer for a family dinner, these roll-ups are sure to be a hit. Plus, they can be easily prepared ahead of time, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the holiday season with your loved ones.

So, gather your ingredients and get ready to impress your guests with these Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll-Ups. With their vibrant colors and irresistible taste, these roll-ups are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Whether you serve them as a starter or alongside your main course, these roll-ups are sure to bring a touch of holiday cheer to your table. Get ready to create new memories and traditions with this delightful recipe!

Quick Benefits

  • Perfect for holiday gatherings and parties
  • Easy to prepare ahead and store in the fridge
  • Offers a delicious combination of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors
  • Versatile – can be customized with different cheeses, herbs, and dried fruits

Why You’ll Love This Festive Cranberry Roll-Ups: Perfect Holiday Appetizer Recipe

  • Festive Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for holiday spreads, these cranberry roll-ups are a hit at parties and gatherings, sure to disappear quickly.
  • Addictive Flavor Combination: The creamy tang of cream cheese and the salty boldness of feta cheese mixed with sweet cranberries create a mouthwatering flavor that guests can’t get enough of.
  • Easy Prep and Make-Ahead: You can prepare these ahead of time to save time and enjoy a colorful finger food on your Christmas table without the last-minute rush.
  • Family Favorite: These roll-ups have become a beloved holiday tradition, loved by both picky eaters and food enthusiasts alike.
  • Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this recipe by swapping ingredients like chives, cheese, and dried fruit to suit your taste preferences or what you have on hand.
  • Long-Lasting Freshness: They can be stored in the fridge for up to three days, making them a convenient make-ahead option for busy holiday gatherings.
  • Variety of Garnish Options: You can garnish these roll-ups with extra chives, fresh herbs, or pair them with cranberry sauce or mustard for dipping, adding a festive touch to your table.
  • Freezer-Friendly: Perfect for meal prep, you can freeze these roll-ups for up to a month, making them a convenient option for quick appetizers anytime.

Ingredients for Festive Cranberry Roll-Ups: Perfect Holiday Appetizer

Filling

  • 1/3 cup fresh chives, finely chopped
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1 1/2 cups dried cranberries

Wrap

  • 4 large flour tortillas, 10-inch diameter

Pro Tips for Festive Cranberry Roll-Ups: Perfect Holiday Appetizer

For the Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll-Ups, a pro tip is to make sure the cream cheese is thoroughly softened before mixing it with the other ingredients. This will ensure a smooth and creamy texture for the filling that spreads easily onto the tortillas. Additionally, when assembling the roll-ups, spread the filling all the way to the edges of the tortillas to ensure each bite is packed with flavor.

Another helpful tip is to refrigerate the assembled roll-ups for at least an hour before slicing. Chilling them will help the filling to set and make the roll-ups easier to slice into neat, attractive rounds. For a clean cut, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between each slice to keep the presentation looking sharp. Serve the roll-ups chilled for a refreshing bite, or let them come to room temperature for a softer texture and fuller flavor profile.

How to Make Festive Cranberry Roll-Ups: Perfect Holiday Appetizer

Step 1: Prepare Cream Cheese Base

In a medium mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat softened cream cheese on medium speed until smooth and airy.

Step 2: Combine Filling Ingredients

Carefully combine crumbled feta, chopped chives, and dried cranberries until evenly mixed.

Step 3: Spread Mixture on Tortillas

Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over each tortilla, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges.

Step 4: Roll and Chill Wraps

Roll each tortilla tightly into a cylinder, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 1-24 hours.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

Unwrap the tortilla roll and slice into bite-sized pieces. Arrange on a platter and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Storage Tips

After preparing these festive Christmas Cranberry Roll-Ups, you can store them in the fridge for up to three days in an airtight container. To prevent the tortillas from drying out, place a damp paper towel in the container before closing the lid. If the roll-ups seem a bit dry after refrigeration, allow them to sit at room temperature for about ten minutes before serving to regain their best texture and flavor.

If you have leftovers or want to make these roll-ups in advance, they can be frozen for up to a month. Simply wrap the whole rolled tortillas tightly in plastic wrap before freezing. When ready to enjoy, thaw the rolls in the fridge overnight and slice them only after they have fully thawed to prevent a soggy filling. For the best texture when serving after freezing, allow the roll-ups to come closer to room temperature before serving. These storage tips will help you enjoy these delicious roll-ups conveniently and maintain their taste and quality.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have feta cheese on hand, goat cheese or shredded sharp cheddar can be used as flavorful alternatives in these Christmas Cranberry Roll-Ups. Each cheese brings its own unique taste to the dish, giving you the opportunity to experiment with different flavor profiles.

For a twist on the original recipe, consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans, as well as herbs like dill or parsley, to the filling mixture. These additions will provide extra texture and layers of flavor to your roll-ups, making them even more satisfying for your guests to enjoy.

To prepare ahead, you can make these roll-ups up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to slice and serve, ensuring they stay fresh and ready to be enjoyed whenever you’re entertaining.

Serving Suggestions

For a beautiful presentation, arrange the savory Christmas cranberry roll-ups in a wreath shape on a holiday platter around a small bowl of cranberry sauce or spiced honey mustard for dipping. Garnish the platter with extra chives or fresh rosemary sprigs to add a festive touch to your Christmas table. Pair these vibrant roll-ups with sparkling cider or mulled wine for a cozy and flavorful appetizer experience that your guests will love.

For a creative twist, try different variations of the savory roll-ups to cater to different seasons. Use dried tart cherries and tarragon for a spring-themed appetizer, or infuse orange zest and rosemary during winter for a citrusy and aromatic bite. In autumn, add chopped toasted almonds for a delightful crunch that complements the creamy filling. These versatile roll-ups can be tailored to suit any occasion or preference, making them a versatile and crowd-pleasing appetizer option for all your gatherings.

FAQs for Festive Cranberry Roll-Ups: Perfect Holiday Appetizer

Can I substitute feta cheese with another type of cheese in this recipe?

Yes, goat cheese or shredded sharp cheddar can substitute for feta, each adding a unique flavor.

How far in advance can I prepare these Christmas cranberry roll-ups?

You can prepare them up to 24 hours ahead. Keep refrigerated until ready to slice and serve.

Are there any additional ingredients I can add to the roll-ups for extra texture and flavor?

Chopped walnuts or pecans, and herbs like dill or parsley, can be added for extra texture and flavor.

Should I serve these roll-ups chilled or at room temperature?

They’re best served chilled, but can also be enjoyed at room temperature for a softer bite.

Conclusion

These Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll-Ups are sure to become a staple at your holiday gatherings, just like they have at mine. The creamy feta cheese, tangy cranberries, and fresh chives make for a flavor combination that is both festive and irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a delicious snack to enjoy with your loved ones, these roll-ups are the perfect choice.

Don’t be afraid to get creative with the ingredients and make these roll-ups your own. Experiment with different cheeses, herbs, and dried fruits to suit your preferences and add your personal touch to this holiday classic. With their vibrant colors and delicious flavors, these roll-ups are a delightful addition to any Christmas table. Give them a try and watch as they disappear in no time, leaving your guests asking for more. Happy cooking and happy holidays with these delightful Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll-Ups!

Festive Cranberry Roll-Ups: Perfect Holiday Appetizer

Festive Cranberry Roll-Ups: Perfect Holiday Appetizer

Creamy feta and tangy cranberries make these Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll-Ups a holiday hit, disappear quickly at parties but are easy to prep ahead.
Prep Time15 min
Cook Time~ undefined
Total Time15 min
CuisineAmerican
Skill LevelEasy
Servings24 Servings (24 bite-sized roll-ups)

Ingredients

Filling

  • 1/3 cup fresh chives, finely chopped
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1 1/2 cups dried cranberries

Wrap

  • 4 large flour tortillas, 10-inch diameter

Instructions

  1. Prepare Cream Cheese Base: In a medium mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat softened cream cheese on medium speed until smooth and airy.
  2. Combine Filling Ingredients: Carefully combine crumbled feta, chopped chives, and dried cranberries until evenly mixed.
  3. Spread Mixture on Tortillas: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over each tortilla, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges.
  4. Roll and Chill Wraps: Roll each tortilla tightly into a cylinder, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 1-24 hours.
  5. Slice and Serve: Unwrap the tortilla roll and slice into bite-sized pieces. Arrange on a platter and serve chilled or at room temperature.