Hey there, fellow baking enthusiast! If you’re on the hunt for a delightful holiday treat that warms the heart and fills the belly, let me introduce you to the Festive Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups. These delicious bites are more than just food; they’re little bundles of festive cheer, perfect for sharing with family and friends during this magical season. Imagine flaky crescent rolls hugging a sweet and tangy cranberry filling, mixed with a creamy layer that will make your taste buds dance. Sounds good, right? So, roll up those sleeves and let’s dive into a recipe that’s as comforting as a warm hug on a chilly evening!

Why Make This Recipe

You might be wondering, “Why should I make these cranberry roll ups?” Well, my friend, let me tell you why they’re a must for your holiday table. First off, they’re incredibly easy to whip up, perfect for both seasoned bakers and those who might be a bit more hesitant in the kitchen. They look delicious and festive, making them an eye-catching centerpiece for any holiday gathering. Plus, they balance sweet and tart flavors in a way that screams “comfort food.”

If you find joy in creating things that bring others together, these roll ups are for you. They can be enjoyed as a dessert, an afternoon snack, or even a breakfast treat if you’re feeling adventurous. Trust me, they will leave your friends and family with smiles as bright as the Christmas lights outside!

Festive Cranberry Roll Ups served on a holiday platter

How to Make Festive Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups

Ready to get baking? Let’s dive into the details of how to bring these sweet rolls into your kitchen.

Ingredients

1 cup cranberry sauce
1 package of crescent roll dough
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Granulated sugar for sprinkling

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial; a hot oven will help our roll ups achieve that perfect golden brown color.
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy, this is going to be the rich layer that complements our cranberry sauce.
Roll out your crescent dough on a flat surface, pinching any seams together to make a solid sheet. This way, you’ll have a nice, clean canvas for our holiday masterpiece.
Spread a generous layer of cranberry sauce over the dough. Don’t be shy! Next, add the cream cheese mixture on top, and if you’re feeling a bit nutty, sprinkle on those chopped pecans.
Gently roll the entire sheet of dough tightly, making sure to keep the filling inside. Once it’s rolled, slice it into bite-sized pieces, around 1 inch thick.
Place those sweet little rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, giving them some space apart.
For that extra sparkle, sprinkle a little granulated sugar on top of each roll. It’s like a sweet little snow cap!
Pop your baking tray in the oven and bake for about 12 to 15 minutes or until they’re beautifully golden brown.
Once baked, let them cool slightly before serving. You’ve earned the right to enjoy the aroma filling your kitchen!

How to Serve Festive Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups

These delightful roll ups can be served warm or at room temperature. They’re excellent on their own but pair wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee. Arrange them on a festive platter and watch as they disappear faster than you can say “holiday cheer!” You can also dust them with a bit more powdered sugar for that extra holiday flair.

How to Store Festive Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups

If you happen to have any leftovers, though that’s a big IF, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They can also be refrigerated for about a week. Just make sure to reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to bring back that fresh-baked vibe. No one wants a sad, soggy roll, right?

Tips to Make Festive Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups

Don’t rush the dough: Take your time rolling out the crescent dough. If it tears a bit, just pinch it back together, your filling will hold it in place.
Customize the filling: Feel free to swap out cranberry sauce for another flavor, like raspberry or blueberry. Just make sure it’s not too runny.
Go nuts! If you love a crunchy texture, pecans or walnuts add a delightful surprise in each bite. They also give a nice earthy flavor that balances the sweetness.
Make it ahead: You can prepare these rolls a day in advance. Just keep them unbaked in the fridge and pop them in the oven before your guests arrive.

Variation

Looking to mix things up? Try adding a hint of cinnamon to your cream cheese filling or a touch of orange zest to the cranberry sauce for a citrusy twist. You might even consider drizzling some melted chocolate over the cooled rolls; chocolate and cranberry make a beautiful match!

FAQs

Can I use store-bought cranberry sauce?
Absolutely! Store-bought cranberry sauce works perfectly and saves you time.

Can I freeze these roll ups?
Yes! You can freeze them before baking. Just slice them and place them on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to bake, just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, mascarpone cheese or Greek yogurt can be great alternatives. Just know that it may alter the texture slightly.

I hope you give these Festive Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups a go, they just might become a new holiday tradition in your kitchen. Happy baking, friend, and may your holidays be filled with sweetness and joy!