Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups That Impress Every Guest
Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Kacper Recipes Team
As the holiday season approaches, I find myself yearning for dishes that bring joy and warmth to gatherings. Picture this: the tangy aroma of dried cranberries mingling with creamy cheese, all wrapped up in a soft tortilla. That s the magic of these Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups! A delightful blend of flavors, they not only add a festive flair to your table, but they also offer a refreshingly easy alternative to traditional appetizers.
After a whirlwind of holiday preparation, these make-ahead gems come to the rescue, effortlessly impressing guests without the last-minute chaos. You ll love how the sweet and savory profiles play with one another, bringing a unique twist to familiar tastes. Whether it s a cozy family dinner or a bustling holiday party, these roll-ups are destined to become a favorite. Ready to roll? Let s get started!
Why Are These Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups So Special?
Effortless Preparation: These delightful roll-ups require minimal effort, making them ideal for busy hosts. Simply mix, spread, roll, and chill!
Crowd-Pleasing Flavors: The sweet-tart cranberries harmonize beautifully with creamy cheeses, ensuring every bite is a flavor adventure that appeals to all.
Versatile Delight: Perfect as a party snack or tasty addition to any meal, these appetizers fit seamlessly into any occasion.
Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare them in advance for stress-free entertaining, as they maintain freshness when stored up to three days.
Festive Presentation: Slice them into vibrant pinwheels that are as pleasing to the eye as they are to the palate, ensuring they stand out on your holiday table.
Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups Ingredients
Get ready to create a festive delight!
For the Filling
- Crumbled Feta Cheese Adds a rich, tangy flavor and creamy texture. Substitute with goat cheese or cream cheese for variation.
- Softened Cream Cheese Provides a smooth and creamy base for the filling. Ensure it s at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Dried Cranberries Offers sweetness and tartness, essential for balance. Use sweetened cranberries for optimal flavor or swap with chopped dried cherries.
- Chopped Fresh Chives Adds a fresh, onion-like flavor that complements the creaminess. Substitute with green onions or parsley if necessary.
For the Wrap
- Flour Tortillas The wrap that holds the filling; soft and pliable for easy rolling. Gluten-free tortillas can be used for a gluten-free option.
These Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups are not only easy to assemble but also create a burst of holiday cheer in every bite!
How to Make Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups
-
Prep the Filling: Beat softened cream cheese until fluffy. Mix in crumbled feta, chopped chives, and dried cranberries until all ingredients are well combined for a wonderfully creamy texture.
-
Spread Mixture: Evenly spread the filling over each tortilla, covering the entire surface to ensure balanced flavors in every bite. This will help keep each roll flavorful and delicious!
-
Roll Tortillas: Tightly roll each tortilla into a log shape, ensuring the filling is sealed inside. A firm roll helps maintain shape and makes slicing easier later on.
-
Wrap and Chill: Wrap each rolled tortilla in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, and ideally 2 hours, to allow the flavors to meld and the filling to firm up.
-
Slice and Serve: Once chilled, unwrap the rolls and slice them into your desired thickness. Arrange the lovely pinwheels on a serving platter and get ready to impress!
Optional: Garnish with additional chopped chives for a pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups Variations
Feel free to play around with these ideas for a delightful twist on your festive roll ups!
- Herb Swap: Use fresh basil or dill instead of chives for a fragrant alternative. Each herb brings its own unique freshness.
- Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling for an unexpected, delightful texture that elevates each bite.
- Olive Addition: Mix in diced Kalamata olives for a savory kick that beautifully balances the sweetness of cranberries.
- Spicy Kick: Include a dash of red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper in the filling for a subtle heat that excites the taste buds.
- Creamy Variants: Substitute the cream cheese with mascarpone or goat cheese for a richer, more decadent flavor profile.
- Cheddar Twist: Try adding sharp cheddar for a zesty layer that pairs exceptionally well with the cranberry tartness.
- Festive Colors: Scatter diced red and yellow bell peppers in the filling to add a crunch and vibrant color to your roll ups.
- Sweet & Savory: Drizzle a little honey on the filling before rolling for an added depth of sweetness that complements the cranberries beautifully.
Make Ahead Options
These Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups are a fantastic option for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the filling and spread it on the tortillas up to 24 hours in advance, then roll them tightly and refrigerate. This helps the flavors meld beautifully while keeping the roll ups fresh. When you re ready to serve, simply slice them into pinwheels and let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes for easier slicing. For the best quality, ensure they are wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, and enjoy them within three days of preparation. These little delights will impress your guests just as much as if they were made fresh that day!
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups
Fridge: Keep your Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container for freshness. They can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze uncut roll-ups wrapped in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can stay fresh for up to 2 months; simply thaw in the fridge overnight before slicing.
Serving Tips: Allow the rolls to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving. This makes slicing easier and ensures they are at the perfect temperature for enjoying.
Reheating: Although these roll-ups are best served cold, you can warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, just to take off the chill, but check for temperature preferences.
Expert Tips for Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups
- Keep it Balanced: Avoid overfilling the tortillas stick to about 1/2 cup of filling to maintain a clean roll and prevent spills.
- Chill Time Matters: Refrigerate the roll-ups for at least 1 hour. This not only firms them up but enhances the mingling of the flavors for delightful Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups.
- Slicing Techniques: Use a sharp serrated knife for clean cuts. Refrigerate the roll before slicing for the best results and neat pinwheels.
- Herb Variation: Spice it up by experimenting with different herbs like basil or dill. Each offers a unique flavor twist without compromising the classic cranberry essence.
- Store Smartly: Wrap tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow to sit at room temperature for 15 minutes prior to slicing for easier handling.
What to Serve with Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups?
Elevate your holiday gatherings with an array of delightful pairings that complement the sweet and savory notes of these festive delights.
-
Cheesy Spinach Artichoke Dip: This warm, creamy dip adds a rich layer of flavor that balances perfectly with the tart roll-ups. It s an easy crowd-pleaser that begs to be dipped!
-
Fresh Vegetable Platter: Crisp veggies like carrots, celery, and bell peppers provide a refreshing crunch, offering a delightful contrast to the creamy roll-ups while adding vibrant colors to your table.
-
Crispy Crostini: Lightly toasted bread topped with a spread or a sprinkle of festive toppings gives a satisfying crunch. Serve with a herbed cream cheese or a festive tomato bruschetta for flavor variety.
-
Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, walnuts, and a light vinaigrette adds freshness. The lightness of the salad complements the richness of the roll-ups beautifully.
-
Sparkling White Wine: A chilled glass of bubbly enhances flavors and brings a celebratory touch to your gathering. Its effervescence pairs well with the creamy richness of the roll-ups.
-
Chocolate Mint Brownies: End your meal on a sweet note with decadent brownies that feature a hint of mint. Their fudgy texture offers a luxurious contrast to the savory roll-ups, making them a perfect dessert.
Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups Recipe FAQs
What kind of tortillas should I use for the Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups?
For this recipe, soft flour tortillas work best due to their pliability, allowing for easy rolling. However, if you need a gluten-free option, you can absolutely use gluten-free tortillas without compromising on flavor or texture.
How should I store leftover Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups?
To keep your roll-ups fresh, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. In the refrigerator, they can last for up to 3 days, just remember to bring them to room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving for easier slicing.
Can I freeze the Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups?
Yes, you can! For freezing, wrap the uncut roll-ups tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They ll stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, then slice and serve as usual.
What can I do if my filling is too runny?
If you find your filling is too runny, try adding a bit more crumbled feta or cream cheese to help thicken it up. Another solution is to drain any excess moisture from the dried cranberries before mixing them in. This should give you a firmer filling that s easier to roll.
Are there any allergy considerations with Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups?
Absolutely! If you re serving guests with allergies, be sure to inform them about the ingredients used, especially the dairy (feta and cream cheese). For a nut-free option, avoid adding any nuts, and you can even use dairy-free cream cheese as a substitute for those avoiding dairy.
How long can I prepare Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups in advance?
You can make these delightful roll-ups up to 24 hours in advance. Simply prepare, wrap them tightly, and refrigerate. Just be sure to allow them to sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving to ensure they are easy to slice and wonderfully enjoyable.



