Festive Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups are a bright and cheerful treat that combine tangy cranberries with a sweet, soft roll-up texture. These little bites are perfect for the holiday season, offering a lovely mix of flavors that bring a bit of sparkle to any gathering. The cranberries add a burst of festive color and a refreshing touch that makes every bite feel special.
I love making these roll ups because they’re so easy to whip up but still feel like something made with care. They’re great to keep on hand for holiday guests or to pack in lunchboxes as a little surprise. I usually make a big batch to share since everyone seems to enjoy that lovely balance of tart cranberry flavor with a soft, sweet outer layer. Plus, they’re a nice change from the usual Christmas cookies and candies.
My favorite way to enjoy these cranberry roll ups is right out of the fridge, just as a quick snack or paired with a warm cup of tea. They’re little festive pockets of joy that brighten up the day, and I find they really put me in the holiday spirit. If you’re looking for a simple, colorful treat that’s fun to make and eat, these roll ups are definitely worth trying this Christmas season!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Flour Tortillas or Crepes
- Flour tortillas give a soft, flexible base, but crepes work wonderfully for a lighter, thinner option. If gluten-free is needed, try gluten-free tortillas or crepes.
- Cream Cheese
- This adds creaminess and helps balance tart cranberries. For a lighter option, you could use mascarpone or a dairy-free cream cheese.
- Cranberry Sauce
- Chunky cranberry sauce adds texture and tart sweetness. If you can’t find sauce, whole fresh or dried cranberries mixed with a bit of honey make a nice alternative.
- Fresh Rosemary
- Rosemary brings a lovely, pine-like flavor that complements cranberries. You can swap it for thyme or mint if you want a different herb note.
How Do You Roll Up These Crispy, Creamy Cranberry Wraps Without Making a Mess?
Rolling these without breaking or squeezing out the filling takes a gentle touch:
- Spread cream cheese evenly but don’t overload – leave a small border so filling won’t spill out.
- Use a thin, smooth layer of cranberry sauce to keep it from being too slippery or wet.
- Start rolling tightly from one edge, keeping pressure even but gentle to avoid tearing.
- Wrap the roll in plastic wrap before chilling to help it hold its shape.
- Use a sharp knife and wipe the blade clean between cuts to get neat slices.
Following these steps helps keep your roll ups looking neat and lets the flavors shine in every bite!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Sharp knife – to slice the roll ups cleanly without squishing the filling.
- Cutting board – provides a sturdy surface for rolling and cutting.
- Spreading knife or small spatula – helps spread cream cheese and cranberry sauce evenly.
- Plastic wrap – keeps roll ups tight while chilling in the fridge.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use orange zest in the cream cheese for a bright citrus twist that pairs well with cranberry.
- Add chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch and a nutty contrast.
- Try fresh thyme instead of rosemary for a milder herbal flavor.
- Swap cranberry sauce for raspberry jam for a sweeter, fruitier version.
How to Make Festive Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 large flour tortillas or crepes
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (preferably chunky)
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
- Fresh cranberries and rosemary sprigs
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and then requires at least 30 minutes of chilling time to set the roll ups nicely. So, plan for roughly 40 minutes total before you can enjoy your festive treats.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Tortillas or Crepes:
Lay your flour tortillas or crepes flat on a clean and dry surface, like a large cutting board or countertop. This will be your workspace to assemble the roll ups.
2. Spread the Cream Cheese:
Using a spreading knife or spatula, spread a smooth, even layer of softened cream cheese over each tortilla. Leave about a half-inch border around the edges to prevent the filling from spilling out when rolled.
3. Add Cranberry Sauce and Rosemary:
Evenly spoon the chunky cranberry sauce over the cream cheese layer. Then sprinkle the finely chopped fresh rosemary evenly on top. This adds lovely flavor and a festive touch.
4. Roll and Chill:
Carefully roll up each tortilla tightly, starting from one edge and rolling to the other, making sure the filling stays inside. Wrap the rolls in plastic wrap and place in the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes. This helps them firm up, making slicing easier.
5. Slice and Serve:
Once chilled, unwrap the rolls and use a sharp knife to cut them into slices about 1 to 1.5 inches thick. Arrange the slices on a serving tray, dust lightly with powdered sugar if you like, and garnish with fresh cranberries and rosemary sprigs for a festive look. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Can I Use Store-Bought Cranberry Sauce?
Absolutely! Store-bought cranberry sauce works great and saves time. Just choose a chunky variety for the best texture in the roll ups.
Can I Prepare These Roll Ups Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make them a few hours ahead and keep them refrigerated, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. Just slice them before serving for the freshest look.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Rosemary?
If you don’t have fresh rosemary, try fresh thyme or mint—both add a lovely herbal note that complements the cranberry flavor nicely.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover roll ups in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. They’re best enjoyed chilled and within that time to maintain freshness.