Festive Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups

Festive Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups

As the holiday season approaches, it’s time to gather with family and friends around the table and indulge in delightful treats that bring warmth and joy. One such recipe that captures the spirit of Christmas is Festive Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups. These delicious bites are not only a feast for the palate but also a visual delight, boasting the vibrant red hue of cranberries against a backdrop of creamy cheese and herbs. Perfect for parties, brunches, or as a holiday appetizer, these roll-ups are easy to make and guaranteed to impress your guests.

Ingredients

To create these festive roll-ups, you’ll need a few key ingredients:

  • 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (or pecans, optional)
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp garlic powder (or 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 4 large flour tortillas (or whole wheat for a healthier option)
  • Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cranberry sauce, chopped walnuts, parsley, garlic powder, and salt. Mix well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined. If you enjoy a bit of spice, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes for an added kick.

Step 2: Assemble the Tortillas

Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spread a generous layer of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the tortilla, leaving about half an inch around the edges. This will help the filling stay inside when you roll it up.

Step 3: Roll It Up

Starting from one edge of the tortilla, roll it tightly, ensuring that the filling remains inside. Use a light pressure to keep it snug but avoid squishing the filling out. Once rolled, you can secure it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about an hour to allow it to firm up, which makes slicing easier.

Step 4: Slice and Serve

After refrigeration, take the roll-ups out and slice them into bite-sized pieces, approximately 1 to 2 inches thick. Arrange on a platter and garnish with additional parsley or a sprinkle of crushed walnuts for decoration.

Step 5: Enjoy!

Your Festive Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups are now ready to serve! These delightful bites can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, making them a versatile addition to any holiday spread. Pair them with crackers, serve alongside a charcuterie board, or simply enjoy them as a finger food delight.

Tips for Variation

  • Sweet and Savory Twist: Add in a little crumbled feta or goat cheese for a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the cranberries.
  • Fruit Fusion: Consider mixing in diced apples or pears for an extra crunch and freshness.
  • Herbs and Spices: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary to enhance the flavor profile.

Conclusion

Festive Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups are not only simple to make but also embody the flavors and colors of the holiday season. They are sure to be a hit at your gatherings, sparking joy and satisfaction in every bite. So, gather your ingredients, roll up some holiday cheer, and share these delightful treats with your loved ones this festive season!

Happy Holidays!