Christmas Savory Cranberry Roll Ups – Easy Holiday Bites

Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups are about to become your new holiday obsession, offering a delightful twist on festive appetizers that will surprise and enchant your taste buds. Imagine flaky, golden pastry encasing a vibrant, flavorful filling that balances sweet, tangy, and savory notes perfectly. These aren’t just appetizers; they’re tiny parcels of holiday joy, designed to impress with minimal effort.

I find immense joy in crafting innovative dishes that capture the spirit of the season in fresh ways.

While traditional Christmas fare often leans on classic roasts and sweet treats, these roll-ups embody that sentiment, elevating the humble cranberry beyond mere sauce to a star player in a truly memorable savory bite. Whether you’re hosting a grand holiday feast or looking for a special treat for a cozy evening, these Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups are remarkably versatile and incredibly easy to prepare, leaving you more time to cherish moments with loved ones. I promise, one bite will have your guests asking for the recipe, making you the undisputed holiday hero!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 17.3 ounces (two sheets) frozen puff pastry, thawed according to package directions. This is the foundation of our delightful Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups, providing that irresistibly flaky texture. Make sure it’s thawed but still cold enough to work with easily, preventing it from becoming too sticky.
• 8 ounces cream cheese, full-fat, softened at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. A crucial component for a creamy, rich filling. Softening ensures a smooth mixture without lumps.
• 1 cup fresh cranberries, finely chopped. Their tartness is essential for balancing the richness of the cheese, and chopping them helps distribute their flavor evenly throughout the roll-ups. If fresh are unavailable, frozen cranberries can be used, but do not thaw completely before chopping.
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped. This herb brings a quintessential holiday aroma and a slightly piney, peppery note that pairs beautifully with cranberries and cheese.
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, removed from stems and finely chopped. Thyme adds an earthy, slightly minty undertone, complementing the rosemary without overpowering it.
• 1/2 teaspoon orange zest, finely grated. The bright, citrusy aroma and subtle sweetness from the zest will elevate the entire flavor profile, enhancing the cranberries.
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder. Just a hint to add a savory depth without making it overtly garlicky.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground, or more to taste. Adds a gentle warmth and subtle spice.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste. Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
• 1/4 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts, optional but highly recommended for added texture and nutty flavor. They introduce a wonderful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft filling and flaky pastry.
• 1 large egg, beaten with 1 tablespoon of water (for egg wash). This will give our Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups a beautiful golden-brown, glossy finish.
• All-purpose flour, for dusting your work surface. A small amount is needed to prevent the puff pastry from sticking as you roll it out.

Preparing the Savory Cranberry-Herb Filling:

1. Ensure your cream cheese is perfectly softened: Before you even think about mixing, take your 8 ounces of full-fat cream cheese out of the refrigerator and let it sit on your countertop for at least 30 to 60 minutes. This step is absolutely critical. If the cream cheese is too cold, it will be incredibly difficult to mix smoothly with the other ingredients, leading to a lumpy filling. We want a creamy, spreadable consistency that will easily distribute across our delicate puff pastry.
2. Prepare your fresh cranberries with precision: Take your 1 cup of fresh cranberries and rinse them thoroughly under cold water. Pat them completely dry with a paper towel. Now, using a sharp knife, carefully chop them into very fine pieces. You don’t want a paste, but rather small, distinct pieces that will burst with flavor in every bite. Alternatively, if you have a food processor, you can pulse them a few times until they are finely chopped, being careful not to over-process them into a jam-like consistency. The goal is to have small, uniform pieces of cranberry that will blend seamlessly into our savory filling.
3. Finely chop the fresh herbs for maximum aroma: Wash your fresh rosemary and thyme. Carefully strip the leaves from the rosemary stems and discard the woody stems. For the thyme, simply remove the tiny leaves from their stems. Now, on a clean cutting board, finely chop both the rosemary and thyme. The finer you chop them, the more their aromatic oils will release, infusing our filling with incredible holiday-inspired flavors. We’re aiming for a texture that integrates beautifully into the cream cheese, not large, overpowering pieces.
4. Combine the filling ingredients: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, place your perfectly softened cream cheese. Add the finely chopped cranberries, the finely chopped fresh rosemary, the finely chopped fresh thyme leaves, the delicate orange zest, the hint of garlic powder, the freshly ground black pepper, and the salt.
5. Mix until perfectly smooth and well-incorporated: Using a sturdy spatula or a wooden spoon, gently begin to mix all the ingredients together. Take your time with this step. You want to ensure that the cream cheese is fully combined with the cranberries, herbs, and seasonings, creating a homogeneous mixture. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is evenly distributed. The filling should be vibrant, aromatic, and have a beautiful, uniform texture. This is the heart of your “Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups,” so make sure it’s perfect!

Assembling the Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups:

1. Prepare your workspace and puff pastry: Lightly flour a clean, dry work surface. Carefully unfold one sheet of thawed puff pastry onto the floured surface. If your puff pastry is folded, gently roll out any creases until you have a relatively flat, even rectangle. Puff pastry is best handled when it’s still cold but pliable, so work efficiently. If it becomes too warm and sticky, you can pop it back into the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to firm up slightly. You might need to gently roll it out slightly with a rolling pin to achieve a perfect 10×12-inch rectangle, aiming for a consistent thickness.
2. Evenly spread the savory filling: Take half of your prepared cranberry-herb cream cheese filling. Using an offset spatula or the back of a spoon, carefully spread the filling in a thin, even layer over the entire surface of the puff pastry, leaving about a 1/2-inch border along one of the longer edges. This border will help seal the roll-ups later. The key here is to spread it evenly from edge to edge (except for that one border) to ensure every roll-up gets a consistent amount of that delicious savory goodness.
3. Add the optional crunchy topping: If you’re using them, generously sprinkle half of your finely chopped pecans or walnuts over the cream cheese filling. The nuts add a fantastic textural contrast and a lovely earthy note that complements the other flavors beautifully. Press them down ever so slightly into the cream cheese to help them adhere.
4. Carefully roll up the pastry: Starting from the longer edge opposite the 1/2-inch border you left, tightly roll up the puff pastry into a log. This requires a delicate touch but firm execution. Try to keep the roll as tight as possible to ensure that your “Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups” maintain their shape and have those beautiful, distinct layers when sliced. Once rolled, gently pinch the seam closed along that 1/2-inch border you left unfilled. Turn the log so the seam is facing down.
5. Chill the log for easier slicing: Carefully transfer the pastry log to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Repeat steps 1-4 with the second sheet of puff pastry and the remaining filling and nuts. Once both logs are formed, place the baking sheet with the logs into the refrigerator and chill for at least 30 minutes. This chilling step is crucial! It allows the puff pastry to firm up, making it much easier to slice clean, even pieces without squishing the roll or distorting its shape. Don’t skip this step if you want perfectly formed roll-ups.
6. Preheat your oven and prepare the egg wash: While the logs are chilling, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper. In a small bowl, whisk together the large egg with 1 tablespoon of water to create your egg wash.
7. Slice the roll-ups with precision: Once the logs are thoroughly chilled and firm, remove them from the refrigerator. Using a very sharp knife, carefully slice each log into 1/2-inch thick rounds. For the cleanest cuts, it sometimes helps to wipe your knife blade clean between each slice, especially if the filling starts to stick. You should get approximately 18-20 “Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups” from each log, yielding a total of 36-40 delicious pieces.
8. Arrange on baking sheets: Place the sliced roll-ups cut-side up on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 1 inch of space between each one to allow for expansion during baking. Overcrowding the baking sheet can lead to uneven baking and prevent them from getting beautifully crispy.

Baking the Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups:

1. Apply the egg wash for a golden finish: Before baking, gently brush the tops and exposed sides of each “Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Up” with the prepared egg wash. This simple step is what gives them that gorgeous, glossy, golden-brown hue that makes them look so appetizing. Be careful not to let pools of egg wash collect around the base, as this can make them stick to the parchment paper.
2. Bake to perfection: Place the baking sheets in your preheated 400°F (200°C) oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed up, deeply golden brown, and the filling appears bubbly. Every oven is a little different, so keep an eye on them, especially towards the end of the baking time. You want them to be thoroughly cooked through, with that signature flaky puff pastry texture. If one tray is browning faster than the other, you can rotate the trays halfway through baking for even results. The aroma filling your kitchen will be absolutely incredible at this point!
3. Cool before serving: Once baked, carefully remove the baking sheets from the oven. Let the “Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups” cool on the baking sheets for 5-10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Allowing them to cool slightly on the baking sheet helps them set up and prevents them from breaking apart when moved. While they are utterly delicious served warm, they are also excellent at room temperature, making them perfect for holiday entertaining.

Serving Suggestions and Tips for Perfect Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups:

These “Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups” are not just a snack; they are a festive statement, perfect for holiday parties, brunch spreads, or even as an elegant appetizer before a special meal. Their balance of tart, savory, and subtly sweet flavors, combined with the incredibly flaky pastry, makes them universally appealing.

Make-Ahead Magic:

One of the best features of these Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups is how easily they can be prepared in advance, which is a lifesaver during the busy holiday season. You have a couple of options here.

• Option 1: Prepare and Chill Rolls: You can prepare the logs up to the point of slicing (step 5 in the assembly instructions). Wrap the unsliced logs tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply unwrap, slice, egg wash, and bake as directed. This method ensures maximum freshness and crispiness straight from the oven with minimal last-minute effort.
• Option 2: Freeze Unbaked Slices: For even longer preparation, you can slice the chilled logs, arrange the individual “Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups” on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and flash freeze them for about an hour until firm. Once firm, transfer the frozen roll-ups to an airtight freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored this way for up to 1-2 months. When you’re ready to bake, you can bake them directly from frozen. They might require an additional 5-10 minutes of baking time, but no need to thaw them first! This is an incredible time-saver for unexpected guests or spontaneous holiday gatherings. Just remember to apply the egg wash right before baking.

Storage and Reheating:

Leftover “Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups” (if you’re lucky enough to have any!) can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat and restore some of their crispiness, place them on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-10 minutes, or until heated through. Microwaving is generally not recommended as it can make the pastry soggy.

Customizing Your Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups:

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable! Don’t hesitate to experiment with different additions to make these truly your own.

• Cheese Variations: While cream cheese provides the essential creamy base, you can add a tablespoon or two of finely grated Parmesan cheese, crumbled feta, or even a sharp cheddar into the filling mixture for an extra layer of cheesy flavor. A hint of goat cheese would also be fantastic with the cranberries and herbs.
• Herb Combinations: Feel free to adjust the proportions of rosemary and thyme based on your preference. A tiny bit of fresh sage, finely minced, could also add another dimension of classic holiday flavor.
• Spice It Up: For those who love a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a tiny dash of cayenne pepper added to the filling would provide a delightful kick that contrasts beautifully with the tart cranberries.
• Add Meat for More Savory Depth: If you want to make these even heartier, consider adding 1/4 cup of very finely diced, cooked ham, crispy bacon bits, or shredded cooked turkey. Ensure any meat additions are very small so they don’t tear the puff pastry or make the rolling process difficult. This would make them an even more substantial appetizer.
• Sweet and Savory Twist: For a slightly sweeter, yet still savory, version, you could add 1-2 teaspoons of brown sugar or maple syrup to the cranberry-herb filling. This would enhance the cranberry’s natural sweetness and create a more complex flavor profile.

Tips for Perfect Puff Pastry:

Working with puff pastry can seem intimidating, but a few simple tips will ensure your “Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups” are a success:

• Keep it Cold: As mentioned, puff pastry is best when cold. Work quickly and efficiently. If your kitchen is warm, or if you’re taking too long, pop the pastry back into the fridge for 10-15 minutes to firm up. This prevents it from becoming sticky and difficult to handle.
• Don’t Overwork It: While you might need to gently roll out the pastry to an even rectangle, avoid excessive rolling or stretching. Overworking the dough can develop the gluten, making the pastry tough rather than flaky.
• Sharp Knife is Key: For clean, professional-looking slices, use a very sharp knife to cut the logs. A dull knife will squish the layers together, resulting in misshapen roll-ups. A serrated knife can sometimes work well too, using a gentle sawing motion.
• Even Spreading: Ensure your filling is spread as evenly as possible. This consistency in thickness will help the roll-ups bake uniformly and ensure a balanced flavor in every bite.

These “Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups” are truly a delightful addition to any holiday table. They combine festive flavors with an elegant presentation and are surprisingly easy to make, especially with the make-ahead options. Get ready to impress your guests with this seasonal treat!

Conclusion:

Well, my friends, we’ve reached the end of our journey with what I genuinely believe will become a new holiday staple in your home. I’ve poured my heart into sharing this recipe, and I truly hope you’re as excited to try it as I am about its potential to brighten your festive season. These aren’t just any ordinary bites; they are a symphony of flavors, a truly delightful fusion of the traditional and the surprisingly innovative.

Why do I insist that this recipe is an absolute must-try? Because it transcends the typical holiday fare. While we all love our classic casseroles and roasted meats, there’s something truly magical about introducing a dish that offers a unique twist, something that makes people pause, taste, and then ask for the recipe. The delightful blend of savory notes, the subtle tartness of cranberries, and that irresistible, comforting warmth of a freshly baked roll-up creates an experience unlike any other. It’s a dish that manages to be both familiar and excitingly new all at once. Imagine the aroma filling your kitchen, drawing everyone in, promising a taste of something special. This is more than just food; it’s an invitation to create beautiful, delicious memories around your table. I promise you, these Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups are poised to become the star of your appetizer spread, or a cherished side dish that beautifully complements your main course, adding that much-needed pop of color and an unexpected layer of flavor to your festive spread.

Endless Serving Possibilities for Your Culinary Creations

One of the many reasons I adore this recipe is its incredible versatility. While it’s perfectly suited for a holiday gathering, don’t limit its brilliance to just December. Consider serving these roll-ups as an elegant appetizer for a New Year’s Eve party, perhaps alongside a robust red wine or a sparkling cider. They also make an incredible addition to a brunch spread; imagine them nestled next to a frittata or a platter of crispy bacon – a wonderful savory-sweet counterpoint. For a more casual affair, they can even be the star of a sophisticated snack board, surrounded by an assortment of cheeses, cured meats, and fresh fruit. They are surprisingly adaptable!

Looking to put your own spin on them? I wholeheartedly encourage it! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses; a sharp cheddar or even a smoked gouda could add a fantastic depth. If you’re a fan of a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes mixed into the filling would provide a delightful kick. For those who love a herbaceous note, a sprinkle of fresh rosemary or thyme in the cranberry mixture would elevate the aroma and taste beautifully. You could even try adding some finely chopped toasted pecans or walnuts for an extra layer of texture and nutty flavor. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box; perhaps a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a touch of maple syrup after baking for a subtle sweet finish? The possibilities are truly endless, and each variation simply adds another dimension to this already fantastic recipe. I’ve often thought about trying them with a different type of pastry, like puff pastry, for an even flakier texture – something to explore on a future culinary adventure!

Now, it’s your turn! I have done my best to guide you through this culinary creation, but the real magic happens when you bring it to life in your own kitchen. I genuinely hope you’ll take the plunge and give these roll-ups a try. They are designed to impress without being overly complicated, making them perfect for both seasoned home cooks and those looking to expand their holiday repertoire. Trust me on this one; your taste buds will thank you.

Once you’ve experienced the joy of baking and tasting them, I would absolutely love to hear about it! Please, come back and share your experiences, your successes, and even your creative variations in the comments section. Did you make any substitutions? How did your family and friends react? Did they become an instant hit? Your feedback and shared stories are what make this community so vibrant and inspiring. There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing others embrace a recipe and make it their own. So, preheat that oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create some culinary magic this holiday season. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear all about your delicious journey!

Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups

Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups are about to become your new holiday obsession, offering a delightful twist on festive appetizers that will surprise and enchant your taste buds. Imagine flaky, golden pastry encasing a vibrant, flavorful filling that balances sweet, tangy, and savory notes perfectly. These aren’t just appetizers; they’re tiny parcels of holiday joy, designed to impress with minimal effort.

Prep Time
45 Minutes

Cook Time
20 Minutes

Total Time
35 Minutes

Servings
36-40 pieces

Ingredients

• 17.3 ounces (two sheets) frozen puff pastry, thawed
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 cup fresh cranberries, finely chopped
• 1/3 cup fresh chives, finely chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon orange zest
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
• 1 large egg, beaten with 1 tablespoon of water (for egg wash)
• All-purpose flour, for dusting

Instructions

1. Step 1
   Ensure cream cheese is softened. Finely chop fresh cranberries and chives. In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, crumbled feta cheese, chopped cranberries, chives, orange zest, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well-incorporated.
2. Step 2
   Lightly flour a clean work surface. Unfold one sheet of thawed puff pastry. Gently roll out any creases to an even rectangle, approximately 10×12 inches.
3. Step 3
   Spread half of the cranberry-herb-cheese filling evenly over the entire surface of the puff pastry, leaving about a 1/2-inch border along one of the longer edges. If using, sprinkle half of the chopped pecans or walnuts over the filling. Starting from the longer edge opposite the border, tightly roll up the pastry into a log. Pinch the seam closed along the unfilled border. Repeat for the second puff pastry sheet and remaining filling.
4. Step 4
   Carefully transfer both pastry logs to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
5. Step 5
   While logs are chilling, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper. In a small bowl, whisk the large egg with 1 tablespoon of water for the egg wash.
6. Step 6
   Remove chilled logs from the refrigerator. Using a very sharp knife, slice each log into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Place the sliced roll-ups cut-side up on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
7. Step 7
   Gently brush the tops and exposed sides of each roll-up with the prepared egg wash. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed, deeply golden brown, and the filling appears bubbly. Rotate trays halfway through baking if needed for even browning.
8. Step 8
   Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheets for 5-10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Important Information

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.