Festive Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups Recipe | Holiday Appetizer
I’ve always loved creating treats that bring a little extra cheer during the holidays. This year, I tried these Festive Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups Recipe, and wow—they were a hit! The combination of tart cranberries, creamy filling, and flaky crescent dough made them irresistible.
They’re quick to make, yet look impressive on any holiday table. I couldn’t wait to share this recipe with friends and family, especially after making my favorite Mini Lemon Cream Puffs Recipe earlier this season.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make these festive roll-ups:
- 1 package crescent roll dough – provides a light, flaky base that bakes beautifully.
- 1 cup cranberry sauce – choose homemade or store-bought for that perfect tart flavor.
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened – adds smoothness and balances the cranberry tartness.
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar – sweetens the cream cheese layer without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – enhances the overall flavor with a warm aroma.
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional) – adds crunch and festive texture.
Note: Serves 6-8 as a sweet holiday appetizer or dessert.
Variations
If you want to mix it up:
- Use dairy-free cream cheese for a vegan-friendly version.
- Swap powdered sugar with a sugar-free alternative for a lighter treat.
- Add a sprinkle of orange zest to the cream cheese for a zesty twist.
You can also enjoy similar tropical desserts like this delightful Pineapple and Coconut Dream Cake Recipe for another festive flavor idea.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Equipment You Need
- Baking sheet – for even baking and easy cleanup.
- Parchment paper – prevents sticking and keeps rolls intact.
- Mixing bowl – to combine cream cheese and powdered sugar smoothly.
- Spatula – for spreading filling evenly.
How to Make Festive Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups
Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures even baking and easy cleanup. Gather all ingredients so everything is ready to go.
Step 2: Make Cream Cheese Mixture
Whisk together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. This creamy layer is the perfect base for the tart cranberry sauce.
Step 3: Roll Out Crescent Dough
Unroll crescent dough on a flat surface and press seams together to form one rectangle. This helps hold the filling and creates uniform roll-ups.
Step 4: Add Fillings
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly, then layer cranberry sauce on top. Sprinkle chopped pecans if using—they add a delightful crunch.
Step 5: Roll and Slice
Roll dough tightly from one end to the other and slice into 1-inch rounds. Place each round on the prepared baking sheet, keeping them slightly apart.
Step 6: Bake
Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving to enjoy the perfect texture and flavor.
Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better
- I always let cream cheese sit at room temperature; it spreads so much easier.
- I like to press the roll tightly—it keeps the filling inside while baking.
- For extra festive flair, sprinkle powdered sugar on top after baking.
- I sometimes swap pecans for slivered almonds for a slightly different texture.
How to Serve Festive Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups
Serve these warm or at room temperature on a festive platter. Garnish with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a few extra cranberries for a holiday look. They pair beautifully with coffee, tea, or a holiday punch.
Nutritional Information
A quick glance at what’s in each roll:
- Calories: ~180 per roll
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 9g
Make Ahead and Storage
Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Freezing: Roll-ups can be frozen before baking; slice and freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a bag. Bake from frozen for 15-18 minutes.
Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes to regain that fresh-baked texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here’s why these roll-ups are a holiday favorite:
- Quick and easy – ready in under 30 minutes.
- Festive and colorful – brightens any table.
- Customizable – swap ingredients to suit dietary needs or taste.
- Crowd-pleasing – everyone loves the creamy-tart combination.
- Perfect for gifting – make a batch for friends and family.
These Festive Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups are not just a treat—they’re a holiday tradition waiting to happen. Easy, colorful, and absolutely delicious, they’re my new go-to recipe for seasonal celebrations.
Festive Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures even baking and easy cleanup. Gather all ingredients so everything is ready to go.
- Whisk together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. This creamy layer is the perfect base for the tart cranberry sauce.
- Unroll crescent dough on a flat surface and press seams together to form one rectangle. This helps hold the filling and creates uniform roll-ups.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly, then layer cranberry sauce on top. Sprinkle chopped pecans if using—they add a delightful crunch.
- Roll dough tightly from one end to the other and slice into 1-inch rounds. Place each round on the prepared baking sheet, keeping them slightly apart.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving to enjoy the perfect texture and flavor.
Notes
- I always let cream cheese sit at room temperature; it spreads so much easier.
- I like to press the roll tightly—it keeps the filling inside while baking.
- For extra festive flair, sprinkle powdered sugar on top after baking.
- I sometimes swap pecans for slivered almonds for a slightly different texture.