I remember the first time I made this for a holiday potluck. The kitchen smelled like cinnamon and orange zest from other dishes, but these little bites stole the show with their bright color and creamy surprise. There is something about food that brings people to the table, and these roll ups always do just that. Festive Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups appear in my holiday plans now like clockwork, tucked into napkin-lined baskets, passed around with laughter, and adored by kids and grown-ups alike. They are simple, playful, and somehow feel both nostalgic and fresh. I love how the tart-sweet cranberry pairs with soft cream cheese, how a little crunch from pecans makes each bite pop, and how easy they are to make days ahead. These are the kind of appetizers that let you savor the party instead of fussing in the kitchen.

Kitchen Essentials You’ll Need

This recipe is wonderfully forgiving and needs just a few reliable tools. Each item helps keep the process smooth so you can focus on taste and presentation rather than drama.

A medium mixing bowl for combining the cream cheese and cranberry sauce.
A rubber spatula or wooden spoon to scrape and smooth the mixture.
A small offset or butter knife to spread the filling evenly on tortillas.
A sheet of plastic wrap to help roll and chill the tortillas so they slice cleanly.
A sharp serrated knife for tidy, bite-sized slices.

Even a simple cutting board and a platter for serving will do. If you have a small food processor, you can chop the pecans more evenly, but it is not necessary. These tools keep the process quick and make the results look polished.

Why You’ll Love This Festive Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups

This recipe hits that holiday sweet spot of being special without being complicated. The contrast of silky cream cheese and bright cranberry creates a flavor that is both familiar and festive. The colors alone feel like a holiday card on a plate. The roll ups are easy to hold, easy to share, and easy to make ahead, which is everything when the oven and stove are already full.

Bright, tangy cranberry sauce lifts the richness of the cream cheese.
Soft tortillas make each bite pillowy and comfortable to eat.
Optional pecans add a roasted, toasty crunch that balances the creaminess.
A light dusting of powdered sugar makes the presentation feel celebratory.

The texture play is what I adore. When you bite in, you get a creamy center that breathes tart fruit, followed by a mild chew from the tortilla and a little crunch if you used pecans. They look elegant on a platter but are forgiving for beginners. Whether you need a last-minute appetizer or a make-ahead crowd-pleaser, these roll ups bring warmth and joy to the table in every bite.

Festive Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups Ingredients

For this recipe you will use a handful of pantry-friendly ingredients that come together in minutes. Make sure your cream cheese is softened for a smooth spread and that the tortillas are fresh and pliable. Here are the essentials you will need, along with a few optional pantry notes to round out the flavor.

1 cup cranberry sauce, 1 cup cream cheese, softened, 1 package of flour tortillas, 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional), 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for sprinkling)

You might also want a pinch of salt to balance the cream cheese and a tiny splash of vanilla or orange zest if you like a citrusy lift. If you prefer a less sweet bite, reduce the cranberry slightly and add a pinch of black pepper to the cream cheese for a subtle savory note. Keep a clean workspace and a roll of plastic wrap nearby to make the rolling step seamless.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Soften and stir. Scoop 1 cup cream cheese, softened, into a medium bowl. Add 1 cup cranberry sauce and use a rubber spatula to stir until the mixture is uniformly pink and silky. You should see a smooth, glossy texture and smell the cranberry’s bright aroma.
Lay out tortillas. Place one tortilla on a clean work surface. With an offset knife or the back of a spoon, spread a thin, even layer of the cranberry-cream cheese mixture over the surface, leaving a small edge so it does not ooze when rolled.
Add crunch if you like. Sprinkle 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional) in a thin line across the center of each tortilla. The nuts add a warm, roasted note and a pleasant crunch beneath the creamy filling.
Roll gently and tight. Starting at one edge, roll each tortilla up snugly, keeping the filling neat and contained. The tortilla should be snug but not stretched so that the roll holds its shape.
Chill to set. Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling firms the filling so the slices stay tidy and the flavors meld.
Slice and finish. Unwrap and use a sharp serrated knife to slice the rolls into bite-sized pieces. Arrange on a platter and sprinkle lightly with 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for sprinkling) for a festive finish. The powdered sugar adds a snowy touch and a whisper of sweetness.

Fun Variations You Can Try

If you want to play with flavors or accommodate dietary needs, these roll ups are wonderfully adaptable.

Swap the cream cheese for a dairy-free cream cheese alternative to make the recipe vegan-friendly. Taste and adjust salt.
Stir in a teaspoon of orange zest into the cream cheese for a citrusy brightness that pairs with cranberry beautifully.
Use whole wheat or spinach tortillas for color and a slightly heartier texture.
Replace pecans with toasted walnuts, sliced almonds, or omit nuts for a nut-free option.
Add a thin layer of honey or maple syrup under the cranberry for an extra touch of sweetness and a sticky glaze.
For a savory twist, fold in a bit of crumbled feta or goat cheese with the cream cheese and use less powdered sugar at the finish.

These swaps change the character but keep the spirit. Taste as you go and remember that simple changes can elevate the dish while keeping it approachable.

How I Love to Serve It

There is something so satisfying about presenting these on a holiday table. I like arranging them on a simple wooden board or a bright ceramic platter. The contrast between the red cranberry and white cream is instantly festive. Serve them alongside salty crackers, slices of roasted turkey, or a bowl of mixed greens to add a fresh note.

A few serving ideas I adore:

Nestle small sprigs of rosemary or thyme among the roll ups for a woodland feel.
Pair with sharp cheddar or a soft brie if you want a more varied cheese board.
Offer small picks or toothpicks so guests can pop them up without napkins.
Place a bowl of extra cranberry sauce for lovers of extra fruit on the side.

These are perfect for cocktail hour, an appetizer spread, or a relaxed family brunch. They travel well, so bringing a plate to a neighbor’s house is always met with delight. The balance of textures and colors makes them feel thoughtfully prepared without taking all morning.

Helpful Tips from My Kitchen

A few little tricks will save you time and stress. First, let the cream cheese sit at room temperature until it is soft. If it is still stiff, the spread will be lumpy. Use a serrated knife to slice for clean cuts; a dull knife will tear the tortilla. If you are prepping ahead, chill the rolls completely before cutting and then return them to the fridge until serving.

Soften the cream cheese on the counter for 30 minutes or microwave in 5-second bursts if short on time.
If your cranberry sauce has very large chunks, give it a gentle mash so the filling spreads evenly.
For uniform slices, chill rolls until firm and wipe the knife blade clean between cuts.
Make them a day ahead and keep them wrapped in the fridge; they stay fresh for up to 48 hours.
Taste and adjust sweetness with powdered sugar or a squeeze of lemon to brighten the filling.

Keep a damp towel nearby when handling tortillas to prevent them from drying out. Above all, don’t stress about perfection. These are meant to be enjoyed, shared, and savored.

Important Cooking Reminders

Always use a fresh, clean cutting board and a sharp knife to avoid slips and uneven slices.
Refrigerate wrapped rolls for at least 1 hour to ensure the filling sets and slices stay tidy.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours; do not freeze assembled roll ups.
When reheating, avoid microwaving; instead, let them sit at room temperature for 10 minutes to soften slightly.
Avoid overstuffing tortillas to prevent tearing and messy slices.

Nutritional Information (Estimated)

These are small appetizers so the calories per roll will be modest, though exact values depend on portion size and whether pecans are used. A typical bite-sized slice might be around 70 to 120 calories. Expect carbohydrates to come mainly from the tortilla and cranberry sauce, fats from the cream cheese and optional nuts, and a small amount of protein from the dairy.

Calories: ~90 per bite (estimate)
Carbs: ~12 g
Fat: ~4–6 g
Protein: ~2–3 g

Keep in mind these are rough estimates. If you need precise numbers, measure your portions and use a nutrition calculator based on the exact brands you use.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including chilling)
Yield: About 24–30 bite-sized pieces depending on tortilla size

Common Questions You Might Have

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes. Make the rolls, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate. They hold well for up to 48 hours. Chill completely before slicing to keep the pieces neat. If transporting, place them in a shallow airtight container lined with parchment.

What can I do if my cream cheese is too cold?

If the cream cheese is firm, let it sit at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes. For a quicker fix, microwave it in 5 to 7 second bursts, stirring between bursts until soft. Be careful not to melt it; you want creamy spreadability.

Can I use homemade cranberry sauce?

Absolutely. Homemade cranberry sauce with a little texture is lovely. If it is too chunky, pulse gently in a food processor or chop by hand so it spreads smoothly. Adjust sweetness if your sauce is more tart than canned versions.

Conclusion

I come back to these Festive Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups year after year because they are joyful, uncomplicated, and feel like a warm hug on a platter. They carry the holiday in every bright bite, the tartness of cranberry cutting through the cream, and a hint of crunch if you choose. They let you be present at your own gathering, giving you a simple, elegant dish that guests love. If you enjoy the idea of a creamy-cranberry swirl, you might also find inspiration in similar recipes like Cranberry Feta Pinwheels and Cranberry and Feta Pinwheels | The Girl Who Ate Everything, which riff on the same bright holiday flavors. Try making these a day ahead and watch how your kitchen fills with the warm hum of conversation as people reach for another piece. May your holidays be full of good food, laughter, and simple recipes that make memories.

Festive Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups

Author: admin
Total Time: 75 minutes
Yield: 24–30 bite-sized pieces 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

These festive roll ups combine tart cranberry sauce and creamy cheese wrapped in soft tortillas, perfect for holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup cranberry sauce
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1 package of flour tortillas
1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
1/4 cup powdered sugar (for sprinkling)

Instructions

Soften and stir the cream cheese and cranberry sauce together in a medium bowl until smooth.
Lay out a tortilla and spread a thin layer of the mixture over it, leaving a small edge.
Sprinkle chopped pecans in a line across the center of the tortilla if using.
Roll the tortilla tightly starting from an edge, keeping the filling contained.
Wrap each roll in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Slice the rolls into bite-sized pieces and sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving.

Notes

These roll ups can be made a day in advance. Serve with additional cranberry sauce for dipping.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Chilling
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 piece
Calories: 90
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 100mg
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 1g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: cranberry, roll ups, holiday appetizer, festive, cream cheese, simple recipes