Festive Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups

Ah, the holiday season! The air turns crisp, Christmas lights twinkle like stars, and my kitchen becomes a warm haven filled with delicious aromas. It was during one of those cozy afternoons, while experimenting with leftover cranberries from Thanksgiving, that I stumbled upon these delightful Festive Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups. Just imagine the sweet-tart aroma wafting through the kitchen as the cranberries burst and mingle with sugar. I envisioned colors of red and white twinkling on a festive platter amidst laughter and cheer, and before I knew it, my friends and family fell in love. They’re not just delicious; they embody the spirit of the holidays—simple, joyful, and oh-so-shareable. I knew right then that you all would love them too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Just a few simple steps make them a breeze, perfect for even the busiest holiday schedule.
• Quick Prep: Whip them up in under 30 minutes, so you can get back to enjoying the holiday rush.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The sweet cream cheese and tart cranberries create a blissful bite.
• Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Everyone will be raving about these roll-ups! Perfect addition to your holiday gatherings.
• Versatile Snack: Great for breakfast or dessert, making them perfect for any time of day!

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh cranberries: Burst of holiday flavor! Choose bright, firm berries for the best taste.
• 1/2 cup sugar: This balances the tartness of the cranberries. Adjust to your sweetness preference!
• 1/2 cup cream cheese: Provides that creamy richness. Make sure it’s softened for easy spreading.
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: A little drop of happiness! Vanilla rounds out the cream cheese flavor beautifully.
• 4 large flour tortillas: These provide the perfect wrap for all your delicious filling. Whole wheat or spinach tortillas can add a twist!
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar: For a snowy finish! Dusting adds a touch of sweetness and visual appeal.
• 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional): Use your favorites—walnuts, pecans, or almonds for added crunch.

Full recipe card is below.

How to Make It

1. Cook the Cranberries

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine cranberries and sugar. Watch closely as the berries begin to pop and soften, releasing that wonderful aroma! Cook until the mixture thickens, which usually takes about 10 minutes. Allow it to cool while you gather your other ingredients.

2. Mix Cream Cheese

In a bowl, mix cream cheese and vanilla extract until smooth. Oh, the creamy, sweet scent that fills the air! This step is essential to ensure each bite is luscious.

3. Spread the Mixture

Spread the cream cheese mixture generously over each tortilla. As you do this, you’ll appreciate the soft texture—it’s almost like spreading a cozy blanket on a chilly day!

4. Add the Cranberry Filling

Spoon the cooled cranberry filling evenly on top of the cream cheese layer. Don’t be shy! The more, the merrier!

5. Roll and Slice

Roll up the tortillas tightly into a log, then slice each roll into bite-sized pieces. As you cut, admire the beautiful colors peeking through—the deep reds against the creamy white are a feast for the eyes!

6. Serve

Dust your lovely roll-ups with powdered sugar and nuts if desired. You can serve them chilled or at room temperature. Either way, they’re bound to be a hit!

Pro Tips for Success

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth spread.
• Don’t Overcook Cranberries: Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t turn into a mushy jam. You want some texture!
• Chill Before Serving: Letting them rest in the fridge for an hour helps flavors meld and makes slicing easier.

Flavor Variations

• Add Spices: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the flavor profile with a warm holiday spice.
• Swap Cream Cheese: Try using flavored cream cheese like blueberry or honey for a fun twist.
• Dried Fruits: Mix in some dried apricots or raisins for an added texture and sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these beauties on a festive platter alongside a cozy hot cocoa or spiced eggnog. They’re also wonderful when paired with a fresh fruit salad for a lighter option. A sprinkle of mint leaves on top adds a festive touch too!

Make-Ahead & Storage

You can prepare these roll-ups a day in advance and keep them in the refrigerator. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap to keep them fresh. They’ll last for about 3-4 days, but I doubt they’ll stick around that long!

Leftovers

Got leftovers? Use them in a fun breakfast wrap! Just add some scrambled eggs and spinach for a delicious morning boost.

Freezing

These roll-ups can be frozen. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container. They’ll keep for about one month. To thaw, just place them in the refrigerator overnight.

Reheating

If you prefer them warm, a quick heat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds does the trick. Alternatively, heat in a skillet over low heat for 3-4 minutes, flipping to ensure they’re evenly warmed.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?
Yes, but remember to thaw and drain them before cooking to avoid extra liquid.

What’s the best way to soften cream cheese quickly?
Cut the cream cheese into small cubes and let it sit out at room temperature for about 15 minutes, or microwave it for about 10 seconds.

Can I use other fruits in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with blueberries, raspberries, or even a mango salsa for a tropical twist!

How can I make these vegan?
Substitute cream cheese with a vegan alternative and use maple syrup in place of sugar for the filling.

Final Thoughts

Creating festive treats like these Cranberry Roll Ups is one of my favorite ways to celebrate the season. They’re not just a recipe; they’re a way to gather loved ones around the table, share stories, and create beautiful memories. As you make these, I hope your kitchen fills with joy and warmth, just like mine. Happy cooking, and may your holidays be as sweet and delightful as these roll-ups! Sending you all my best kitchen wishes—hugs from Chef Caroline!