Festive Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups

If you’re looking to add a splash of color and festive flavor to your holiday table, these easy Festive Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups are just the treat you need. Bursting with tangy cranberries, soft cream cheese, and flaky puff pastry, they deliver a perfect combination of sweet and savory that’s quick to make and delightful to share. Whether you’re hosting a cozy family gathering or an office party, these roll ups will brighten your appetizer lineup and bring smiles all around.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless preparation: Requires minimal ingredients and steps, making it ideal even for last-minute holiday plans.
• Festive flair: The bright red cranberries create a beautiful color contrast that’s perfect for the Christmas season.
• Perfect for sharing: Bite-sized and easy to handle, making them great for parties and gatherings.
• Customizable flavors: You can easily tweak ingredients to suit dietary needs or flavor preferences.
• Satisfyingly balanced: Combines sweet, tart, and creamy textures for a crowd-pleasing treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple but essential, each playing an important role in building the flavors and textures that make Festive Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups so special. From the richness of the cream cheese to the tart burst of cranberries, every component enhances the overall taste.

• Puff pastry sheets: These provide a flaky, golden crust that wraps everything in buttery goodness.
• Cream cheese: Adds a creamy, smooth layer that balances the tartness of the cranberries.
• Fresh or frozen cranberries: Deliver a bright, festive pop of flavor and color.
• Honey or maple syrup: Brings subtle sweetness that complements the tart cranberries perfectly.
• Orange zest: Introduces a fresh citrus note that lifts the whole dish.
• Chopped nuts (optional): Adds crunch and texture—pecans or walnuts work beautifully.
• Egg wash: Helps achieve that irresistible golden-brown finish on the pastry.

Variations for Festive Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups

One of the best parts about these roll ups is how flexible they are. Whether you’re vegan, prefer a spicier bite, or want to experiment with flavors, this recipe adapts effortlessly. Here are some fun ideas to personalize yours.

• Nut-free variation: Skip the nuts and add extra orange zest or cinnamon for added flavor without the crunch.
• Vegan option: Use vegan puff pastry and cream cheese substitutes, plus agave syrup instead of honey.
• Spiced cranberry: Add a pinch of ground ginger or cinnamon to the cranberry mixture for a warm holiday spice.
• Cheese twist: Swap cream cheese for mascarpone or ricotta for a richer, creamier filling.
• Herb infusion: Mix in fresh rosemary or thyme into the cheese to add an earthy note that pairs beautifully with cranberry.

How to Make Festive Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups

Step 1: Prepare the filling

In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, honey or maple syrup, orange zest, and chopped cranberries. Mix until well incorporated, ensuring the tart cranberries are evenly distributed for bursts of flavor in every bite.

Step 2: Roll out the puff pastry

On a lightly floured surface, roll out your puff pastry sheets to smooth any creases and achieve an even thickness. This helps ensure consistent baking and flaky texture throughout.

Step 3: Spread the filling

Evenly spread the cranberry cream cheese mixture over half of the puff pastry sheet, leaving a small border around the edges so the filling doesn’t spill out during baking.

Step 4: Add optional nuts and fold

If you’re adding chopped nuts, sprinkle them over the filling now. Carefully fold the pastry sheet over the filling to create a rectangle, gently pressing edges to seal.

Step 5: Slice and brush with egg wash

Using a sharp knife, slice the pastry into 1- to 1.5-inch wide strips. Brush each strip with beaten egg wash to ensure a golden, shiny finish once baked.

Step 6: Bake to perfection

Place the roll ups on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced evenly. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes, or until puffed and beautifully golden brown.

Pro Tips for Making Festive Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups

• Use cold puff pastry: Keep your pastry chilled until ready to use to ensure maximum flakiness during baking.
• Don’t overfill: Too much filling can cause the pastry to burst and leak during baking—keep it moderate.
• Egg wash perfection: Use a light, even coating for the best color and shine; avoid pooling.
• Fresh cranberries preferred: Fresh cranberries yield better texture, but frozen works well if thawed and drained.
• Serve warm: These roll ups taste best when fresh from the oven or slightly warm for optimal creaminess.

How to Serve Festive Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups

Garnishes

A simple sprinkle of powdered sugar or a few fresh cranberry halves can add an elegant finishing touch that boosts presentation and adds a subtle sweetness on top.

Side Dishes

Pair these roll ups with a crisp green salad, roasted nuts, or wholesome winter soups to build a well-rounded holiday spread that’s both festive and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

Try arranging the roll ups in a circular wreath shape on a platter, or skewer them with toothpicks alongside sprigs of rosemary or pine for a very holiday-themed vibe. Adding small bowls of cranberry sauce or whipped cream for dipping is another fun serving idea.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the pastry from getting soggy, place parchment paper between layers.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked roll ups by assembling them on a baking sheet, freezing until firm, then transferring to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes to restore crispness without drying out the filling—avoid microwaving to keep the pastry flaky.

FAQs

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?

Yes, dried cranberries work if you soak them briefly in warm water or orange juice to rehydrate and soften before mixing into the filling.

Are Festive Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups suitable for vegans?

They can be, by substituting puff pastry made without butter and using vegan cream cheese and syrup alternatives.

Can I make these ahead of time for a party?

Absolutely! You can prepare and assemble them a day ahead, then bake just before serving to enjoy them warm and fresh.

What other fruits can I use instead of cranberries?

Try blueberries, chopped apples, or pears as alternatives that pair well with cream cheese and maintain a holiday feel.

How do I prevent the pastry from getting soggy?

Ensure your cream cheese filling isn’t too wet and avoid overfilling to prevent juices from leaking onto the pastry base during baking.

Final Thoughts

Festive Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups bring a burst of holiday cheer with every bite and are wonderfully simple to make. They combine easy prep with impressive flavor and presentation, making them one of my favorite recipes to share during the season. Give them a try and watch how quickly they become the star appetizer at your festive celebrations!

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