Savory special occasion Cranberry Roll Ups

If you ask me, Savory special occasion Cranberry Roll Ups are one of the smartest holiday appetizers around. These delightful finger foods are perfect for various occasions, including holiday parties and family gatherings. The combination of creamy cheese and sweet cranberries creates a unique flavor that is sure to impress your guests while being incredibly easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip these up in no time.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The blend of cream cheese, feta, and dried cranberries offers a perfect balance of savory and sweet.
• Versatile Serving Options: These roll ups can be served as appetizers, snacks, or even as part of a festive buffet.
• Make Ahead Convenience: Prepare them ahead of time to save stress on the day of your event.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add or substitute ingredients according to your taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, having the right tools will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space for combining all ingredients without spilling.
• Spatula or wooden spoon: Perfect for mixing the cheeses thoroughly and ensuring a smooth consistency.
• Cutting board: A stable surface for chopping chives and preparing your ingredients safely.

Ingredients

To create these delightful Savory special occasion Cranberry Roll Ups, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Cheese Mixture

• 8 ounces softened cream cheese
• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled

Flavor Enhancements

• 1/3 cup fresh chives, chopped
• 1 1/2 cups dried cranberries

Wraps

• 4 large flour tortillas (10 inches each)

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: PT0M
Total Time: 75 minutes

How to Make Savory special occasion Cranberry Roll Ups

Step 1: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and crumbled feta. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix until smooth.

Step 2: Add Chives and Cranberries

Once your cheese mixture is smooth, fold in the chopped chives and dried cranberries. Ensure everything is well mixed for an even flavor distribution.

Step 3: Assemble the Roll Ups

Lay out a flour tortilla on a clean cutting board. Spread a generous layer of the cheese mixture evenly across the entire surface of the tortilla.

Step 4: Roll Up Tight

Starting from one edge, carefully roll the tortilla tightly over the filling. Press gently but firmly as you go to keep everything inside.

Step 5: Chill Before Serving

Wrap each roll up in plastic wrap and place them in the refrigerator for at least one hour. This helps them hold their shape when sliced.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

After chilling, remove from plastic wrap and slice into bite-sized pieces. Arrange on a platter and serve as a festive appetizer at your gathering!

How to Serve Savory special occasion Cranberry Roll Ups

Savory special occasion Cranberry Roll Ups make a delightful addition to any holiday gathering. Their vibrant colors and rich flavors will impress your guests and leave them wanting more.

As a Festive Appetizer

• Serve these roll ups on a decorative platter for a stunning presentation at your holiday party.

With Seasonal Dips

• Pair with creamy dips like hummus or tzatziki to enhance the flavor and add variety.

On a Charcuterie Board

• Include them on a charcuterie board alongside cheeses, nuts, and fruits for an impressive spread.

For a Quick Snack

• Cut into smaller pieces for bite-sized snacks that are perfect for mingling during holiday festivities.

How to Perfect Savory special occasion Cranberry Roll Ups

Creating the perfect Savory special occasion Cranberry Roll Ups is easy with these helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to elevate your dish.

• Use room temperature cream cheese – This makes it easier to spread and combines smoothly with the feta cheese.
• Chop ingredients finely – Finely chopped chives and cranberries will distribute evenly for better flavor in every bite.
• Let rest before serving – Allowing the roll ups to chill in the refrigerator for about an hour helps flavors meld and makes slicing easier.
• Experiment with tortillas – Try using spinach or whole wheat tortillas for added color and nutrition.

Best Side Dishes for Savory special occasion Cranberry Roll Ups

To complement your Savory special occasion Cranberry Roll Ups, consider serving these delightful side dishes. They add variety and enhance the overall dining experience.

1. Crispy Vegetable Chips – Lightly salted vegetable chips offer a crunchy contrast to the creamy roll ups.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Tossed in olive oil and seasonings, these provide a savory touch that pairs well.
3. Stuffed Mini Peppers – Filled with cheese or quinoa, they add color and flavor to your spread.
4. Mixed Green Salad – A fresh salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the roll ups nicely.
5. Garlic Breadsticks – Warm, buttery breadsticks are always a hit and great for dipping.
6. Fruit Platter – A selection of seasonal fruits adds sweetness and freshness to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Savory special occasion Cranberry Roll Ups, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Using cold ingredients: Always remember to soften your cream cheese before mixing. Cold ingredients can lead to a lumpy texture and uneven spreading.
• Not chopping ingredients finely: Ensure that your chives and cranberries are chopped well. This helps them blend into the filling, providing a more pleasant bite.
• Skipping the chilling time: After rolling up, allow the roll ups to chill for at least 60 minutes. This step helps set the filling and makes slicing easier.
• Overfilling the tortillas: Be cautious not to overfill your tortillas. A thin layer of filling is ideal for easy rolling and prevents spills during serving.
• Neglecting presentation: Roll ups look best when sliced evenly and arranged nicely on a platter. Don’t forget to garnish with extra chives or cranberries for visual appeal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Savory special occasion Cranberry Roll Ups

• Wrap roll ups tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Savory special occasion Cranberry Roll Ups

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place roll ups on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a non-stick skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally for even heating.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Savory special occasion Cranberry Roll Ups?

Savory special occasion Cranberry Roll Ups are festive appetizers made from tortillas filled with cream cheese, feta, chives, and dried cranberries, rolled up and sliced.

How do I customize my Savory special occasion Cranberry Roll Ups?

Feel free to add different herbs such as parsley or dill, or substitute feta cheese with goat cheese for a unique flavor twist.

Can I prepare Savory special occasion Cranberry Roll Ups ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them a day in advance and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

Are Savory special occasion Cranberry Roll Ups suitable for parties?

Yes! These roll ups make perfect finger foods for holiday parties or gatherings; they are easy to grab and enjoy.

Final Thoughts

Savory special occasion Cranberry Roll Ups are a delightful and versatile appetizer that brings festive flavors together beautifully. With their creamy filling and vibrant colors, they’re sure to impress your guests. Feel free to customize the ingredients according to your taste preferences!