Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll-Ups – Easy Holiday Party Treats

Byarlo Jack

Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll-Ups are a festive, flavorful appetizer perfect for holiday parties, family gatherings, or as a grab-and-go snack during the busy season. These roll-ups combine the tartness of cranberries with creamy cheese, savory herbs, and soft tortilla or puff pastry wraps to create a colorful, delicious, and eye-catching treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These roll-ups are quick to assemble, visually appealing, and packed with flavor. The combination of creamy cheese, tangy cranberries, and fresh herbs makes them irresistible, while their bite-sized form makes them perfect for parties or holiday platters. They’re versatile, easy to customize, and can be made ahead of time for stress-free entertaining.

Nutritional Info

Cranberry roll-ups provide protein and calcium from the cheese, fiber and antioxidants from cranberries, and moderate carbohydrates from the wraps. They’re a lighter holiday appetizer option compared to heavier dips or fried snacks, making them a balance of indulgence and nutrition.

Time Taken

Total time: approximately 20–25 minutes

  • Prep: 10–15 minutes
  • Assemble and chill: 10 minutes

Ingredients

  • 4 large flour tortillas or puff pastry sheets
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise (optional for extra creaminess)
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional garnish: additional herbs or thin cranberry slices

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, mayonnaise (if using), chopped cranberries, nuts, parsley, chives, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and evenly combined.
  2. Lay out tortillas or pastry sheets on a clean surface. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over each wrap, leaving a small border around the edges.
  3. Roll up the tortillas tightly into a log shape.
  4. Chill the rolled wraps in the refrigerator for 10–15 minutes to firm up, making slicing easier.
  5. Slice into 1-inch pinwheels and arrange on a serving platter.
  6. Garnish with extra herbs or cranberry slices for a festive presentation.

You Must Know

Chilling the roll-ups before slicing ensures clean, even pinwheels and prevents filling from squishing out. Use softened cream cheese for easy spreading and a smooth texture. Toasted nuts add crunch but can be omitted for a nut-free version.

Storage Tips

Store leftover roll-ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Assemble shortly before serving for best texture, or make ahead and slice just before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • Use goat cheese or feta for a tangier flavor.
  • Replace tortillas with puff pastry or phyllo dough for a flakier texture.
  • Substitute dried cranberries with dried cherries or pomegranate seeds for variation.
  • Add smoked salmon or deli turkey for a protein-packed version.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve as part of a holiday appetizer platter with olives, nuts, and cheese.
  • Pair with sparkling wine, cider, or a festive cocktail.
  • Add small picks or toothpicks to each roll-up for easy grabbing at parties.

Seasonal Adaptations

  • Christmas: Use red cranberries and green herbs for a festive color palette.
  • Fall: Add roasted pumpkin seeds or a pinch of cinnamon for a seasonal twist.
  • Year-round: Swap herbs and dried fruit based on availability and preference.

Success Stories

Many home hosts rave about this recipe for its simplicity, visual appeal, and crowd-pleasing flavor. It’s often described as “the most requested appetizer” at holiday parties and works well for both casual gatherings and elegant celebrations.

Pro Tips

  • Chill roll-ups before slicing to keep pinwheels intact.
  • Use a sharp knife for clean cuts.
  • Toast nuts lightly for enhanced flavor and crunch.

Chef’s Special Tips

  • Add a thin layer of cranberry sauce for extra tartness.
  • Sprinkle a little coarse sea salt over the top before serving for flavor contrast.
  • Experiment with different cheese combinations like cream cheese and sharp cheddar for depth.

Conclusion

Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll-Ups are an easy, festive, and delicious appetizer that brings color, flavor, and holiday cheer to any party. Quick to make, visually appealing, and full of festive flavors, they’re sure to impress guests. Try this recipe at your next holiday gathering and watch them disappear quickly!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these roll-ups ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and chill them, then slice just before serving for best texture.

Can I make them nut-free?
Absolutely—omit the nuts or replace with seeds such as pumpkin or sunflower seeds.

Can I use puff pastry instead of tortillas?
Yes, puff pastry adds a flakier texture and makes them extra festive.

Can I add meat to these roll-ups?
Yes, thinly sliced turkey, ham, or smoked salmon pairs wonderfully with the cranberry and cheese.

How long do they last?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Can I make mini versions?
Yes, roll tortillas thinner and slice into smaller pinwheels for bite-sized party snacks.

Can I use fresh cranberries?
Yes, but chop them finely and lightly sweeten to balance tartness.

What cheese works best?
Cream cheese is ideal, but goat cheese, feta, or a combination can add extra flavor depth.