A Sweet & Savory Holiday Appetizer Everyone Loves
During the holiday season, the best recipes are the ones that feel effortless yet look festive and impressive on the table. These Festive Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups are exactly that — a bite-sized, colorful, sweet-and-savory treat that disappears faster than you can refill the plate. They combine creamy cheese, dried cranberries, fresh herbs, and soft tortillas rolled into beautiful spirals that capture the magic of Christmas in every bite.
What makes these roll ups truly special is their flavor balance. The tang of cream cheese pairs perfectly with the sweetness of cranberries, while green onions and parsley bring a fresh pop of color reminiscent of classic Christmas tones — red, green, and snowy white. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, contributing to a potluck, or preparing a quick Christmas snack, these roll ups are guaranteed to shine.
They’re also incredibly easy to prepare and require no baking. You can make them ahead of time, refrigerate, slice, and serve right before guests arrive. This makes them a stress-free but impressive appetizer option, especially during busy holiday weeks.
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup dried cranberries, chopped
- ¼ cup chopped green onions
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional for sweetness)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 large flour tortillas
Instructions
- Make the creamy filling
In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, chopped cranberries, green onions, parsley, shredded cheese, honey (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix until fully combined and creamy. - Assemble the roll ups
Lay a tortilla flat and spread a generous layer of the mixture evenly across the surface. - Roll tightly
Starting from one end, roll the tortilla firmly into a log shape to create tight spirals. - Chill for best results
Place the rolled tortillas in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps them firm up and makes slicing clean and easy. - Slice and serve
Use a sharp knife to cut each roll into 1-inch pinwheels. Arrange on a platter and garnish with extra cranberries or parsley for a festive touch.
Serving Ideas
- Perfect for Christmas brunch, buffet tables, school parties, or family gatherings.
- Serve with cranberry sauce or a light honey-mustard dip for added flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
These roll ups are not only delicious but also visually stunning — a true holiday crowd-pleaser.