Cranberry Roll Ups – Delicious, Sweet-Tart, Creamy Christmas Appetizer Bites

Cranberry Roll Ups bring together creamy cheese, tangy cranberries, and soft tortillas in every bite. They’re colorful, quick, and perfect for Christmas gatherings. The texture is rich yet light, and each slice shows off a swirl of red and white that feels instantly festive. You can prep them ahead, chill, slice, and serve with zero stress. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or prepping snacks for a cozy night, these pinwheels add a fresh, merry touch to your table. Trust me, once you taste that blend of sweet-tart cranberries and salty feta, you’ll want to make an extra batch — they disappear fast!

Why These Cranberry Roll Ups Are Perfect for Christmas Appetizers

Festive Flavors and Presentation

Bright pops of red cranberries wrapped in creamy cheese make these roll ups look like holiday cheer on a plate. They’re an instant crowd-pleaser that fits beautifully into any appetizer board.

Quick, No-Cook Make-Ahead Recipe

Since they need no oven time, they save you valuable space and effort. You can roll them up a day before, chill, and simply slice when guests arrive. It’s a foolproof, stress-free holiday recipe that always impresses.

Ingredients Overview and Key Flavor Notes

Creamy and Tangy Cheese Base

The combo of smooth cream cheese and crumbly feta creates a creamy, slightly salty filling. Together, they balance sweetness and tang in every bite.

Sweet-Tart Cranberries and Fresh Herbs

Dried cranberries add chewy bursts of sweetness that pair perfectly with fresh chives for a bright, herby lift.

Choosing the Best Tortillas or Wraps

Use soft, large flour tortillas for easy rolling. Spinach or tomato wraps work too if you want color variety. Avoid corn tortillas — they tend to crack and dry out.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Cranberry Roll Ups

Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

Beat cream cheese until fluffy and smooth. It should look light and airy before you add anything else.

Step 2: Fold In Cranberries, Feta, and Chives

Add feta, cranberries, and chives. Mix gently so the cranberries stay whole and evenly distributed.

Step 3: Spread, Roll, and Wrap Tightly

Spread about ½ cup of filling on each tortilla, leaving a little border. Roll each one firmly to form a log, then wrap in plastic wrap.

Step 4: Chill, Slice, and Serve Cleanly

Refrigerate at least 1 hour for firm texture. Slice with a serrated knife in gentle sawing motions for clean, perfect pinwheels. Serve cool or slightly room temp.

Pro Tips for Perfect Pinwheels Every Time

Avoid Overfilling and Tearing

Too much filling causes the rolls to burst. A thin, even layer gives better flavor balance and neat slices.

Best Tools for Clean Slices

Use a sharp serrated knife. Wipe between cuts to keep the edges smooth and pretty.

Serving at the Right Temperature

Let them rest 10–15 minutes at room temperature before slicing — the filling softens beautifully.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

Cheese Alternatives for Different Tastes

Try goat cheese for tangy smoothness or blue cheese for a bold, festive kick. Dairy-free cream cheese works well too.

Herb and Fruit Swaps for Seasonal Twists

Switch chives with dill, parsley, or green onions. Replace cranberries with dried cherries, apricots, or raisins for a fun twist.

Using Flavored or Colored Tortillas

Spinach or sun-dried tomato wraps add vibrant hues and mild flavor differences that make your platter pop.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Holiday Platters and Appetizer Boards

Arrange the slices on a board with nuts, grapes, and cheese cubes for a cheerful display.

Dips, Sauces, and Side Bites

Serve with honey mustard, cranberry sauce, or a creamy herb dip. They also pair perfectly with a Cranberry Orange Prosecco Punch or Cranberry Orange Whiskey Sour Cocktail for a complete holiday vibe.

Make-Ahead, Storage, and Freshness Tips

Preparing Up to 24 Hours in Advance

You can roll and refrigerate these up to a day before serving. They slice best when fully chilled.

Refrigeration and Shelf Life

Keep them tightly wrapped in plastic or foil for up to 3 days. They stay fresh and creamy when properly sealed.

Reviving Texture Before Serving

Let them sit briefly at room temperature before slicing to bring back the soft, creamy consistency.

Common Questions About Cranberry Roll Ups

Related Recipes to Try

• Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites
• Cranberry Roast Beef Recipe
• Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole
• Garlic Butter Rolls for Thanksgiving

Conclusion and Final Serving Inspiration

These Cranberry Roll Ups are creamy, sweet, tangy, and beautifully festive — everything a holiday appetizer should be. You can mix, roll, chill, and serve in minutes with no stress. They pair perfectly with cozy sips, from wine to festive cocktails. For more easy, make-ahead party bites, follow my boards on Pinterest for fun seasonal ideas and kitchen inspiration. Simple, pretty, and delicious — that’s the secret to a cheerful holiday table!

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