Introduction
As the festive season approaches, it’s time to get creative in the kitchen with delightful appetizers that will wow your guests. These Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll-Ups are not only easy to make but are bursting with flavor, combining the rich creaminess of cream cheese with the tartness of cranberry sauce and a hint of warmth from cinnamon and orange zest. Perfect for holiday gatherings, these colorful roll-ups can be prepared in just 15 minutes, allowing you to spend more time mingling with loved ones. Let’s dive into this festive recipe!
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 package (10 oz) flour tortillas
- 1 cup spinach leaves, chopped
- 1 cup shredded turkey or chicken (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 12 roll-ups
Directions and Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cranberry sauce, orange zest, ground cinnamon, and honey. Mix well until all ingredients are smooth and fully blended together.
- Lay one tortilla flat on a clean surface and spread a generous layer of the cranberry cream cheese mixture evenly over the tortilla.
- Sprinkle the chopped spinach evenly over the cream cheese layer, ensuring it’s distributed well.
- If you’re using turkey or chicken, add a layer of shredded meat on top, followed by a sprinkle of chopped pecans. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
- Starting from one edge, carefully roll the tortilla tightly to form a log. Be gentle to keep the filling from spilling out.
- Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas and filling ingredients until everything is used up.
- Once all the tortillas are rolled, cut each roll into bite-sized pinwheels for easy serving.
- Arrange the roll-ups on a festive platter and serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to impress your guests.
Notes or Tips
Feel free to experiment with different ingredients! Adding some crumbled feta or goat cheese can introduce a delightful tanginess, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze just before serving can elevate the flavors even further. If you want to make these ahead of time, roll them up and keep them wrapped in plastic wrap in the fridge for up to a day before serving.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe focuses on no-cook techniques, making it super simple! The key is to ensure the cream cheese is softened well so that it can be spread easily without tearing the tortilla. For added texture, let the tortillas sit at room temperature for a few minutes before spreading—this makes them more pliable and easier to roll. Cutting the roll-ups into pinwheels not only makes them visually appealing but also ensures uniform bites for your guests.
FAQ
Can I use different types of tortillas?
Absolutely! Whole wheat or spinach tortillas can add a nice flavor and color to your roll-ups.
How long can these roll-ups be stored?
These roll-ups can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just make sure to keep them tightly wrapped to maintain freshness.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to add more veggies like shredded carrots, bell peppers, or even diced apples for a sweet crunch.
Conclusion
These Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll-Ups are the perfect appetizer to kick off your holiday festivities. With their vibrant colors and delightful textures, they’re sure to bring a smile to every face around your holiday table. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavors that dance on your palate, these roll-ups will undoubtedly become a treasured recipe for years to come. Gather your ingredients, and let’s get rolling!