Cranberry Cream Cheese Roll Ups Recipe

Irresistible Cranberry Cream Cheese Roll Ups Recipe for Beginners

Sweet cranberry cream cheese roll-ups upgrade ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary culinary adventure.

Delicate pastry embraces a luxurious filling where creamy cheese meets vibrant fruit.

Tangy cranberries dance with smooth cream cheese, creating a harmonious flavor profile that tingles taste buds.

Each rolled morsel promises a burst of comforting warmth and delightful complexity.

Soft golden layers cradle a luscious interior that balances sweet and tart sensations perfectly.

Elegant yet simple, these roll-ups elevate everyday ingredients into something truly special.

Prepare to fall in love with a treat that delights both eye and palate.

Why These Sweet Cranberry Roll Ups Are So Addicting

  • Indulge in Creamy Cranberry Delight: These roll-ups burst with luxurious cream cheese and tangy cranberry flavors, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness in every bite.
  • Quick and Easy Pastry Magic: Requiring minimal preparation time and using simple ingredients, this recipe transforms basic puff pastry into an impressive dessert that looks professionally crafted.
  • Versatile Treat for Any Occasion: Whether served as a breakfast pastry, afternoon snack, or elegant dessert, these roll-ups adapt effortlessly to different settings while satisfying diverse taste preferences.
  • Customize with Simple Touches: The recipe allows flexible variations like adding different nuts, adjusting glaze thickness, or experimenting with fruit combinations, making it a playful culinary adventure for home bakers.

What Goes Into These Tart-Creamy Pastry Rolls

Dairy Base:
  • Cream Cheese: Soft, creamy foundation for the filling with rich and tangy flavor. Full-fat version recommended for best texture.
  • Sugar: Adds sweetness to balance cream cheeses tanginess. White granulated sugar works best.
  • Vanilla: Enhances overall flavor and adds subtle aromatic depth. Pure vanilla extract preferred.
Pastry Components:
  • Puff Pastry Sheet: Provides light, flaky outer layer for the roll-ups. Frozen variety works perfectly and saves preparation time.
  • Flour: Used for light dusting to prevent pastry from sticking. All-purpose flour recommended.
Fruit and Topping Ingredients:
  • Cranberries: Adds tart fruity burst and vibrant color to the filling. Fresh or dried cranberries can be used.
  • Confectioners Sugar: Creates smooth, glossy glaze for topping. Ensures a sweet finishing touch.
  • Milk: Helps thin and smoothen the sugar glaze. Regular whole milk works well.
  • Sliced Almonds: Provides crunchy texture and nutty garnish. Enhances visual appeal and adds subtle flavor complexity.

How to Assemble and Bake These Pretty Little Roll-Ups

Step 1: Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture

Microwave cream cheese for 30 seconds until soft. Mix in sugar and vanilla. Let the mixture cool slightly until warm.

Step 2: Prepare Work Surface

Dust a large cutting board with flour. Carefully unfold the puff pastry sheet on the floured surface.

Step 3: Spread Cream Cheese Layer

Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly across the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border at the far end.

Step 4: Add Cranberry Topping

Sprinkle chopped cranberries evenly over the cream cheese layer to ensure fruity flavor in every bite.

Step 5: Roll and Chill Pastry

Tightly roll up the pastry and wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for 20-30 minutes (or up to 24 hours).

Step 6: Prepare for Baking

Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 7: Slice Roll Ups

Using a serrated knife, cut the rolled pastry into 3/4 to 1-inch thick slices. Place slices on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them 1-2 inches apart.

Step 8: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake for 14-18 minutes until pastries are puffy and golden brown, ensuring they’re cooked through.

Step 9: Create Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together:
  • Confectioners' sugar
  • Milk

Blend until smooth and drizzling consistency is achieved.

Step 10: Finish and Garnish

Allow pastries to cool for 5-10 minutes. Drizzle glaze generously over roll-ups. Sprinkle sliced almonds on top.

Step 11: Serve and Enjoy

Serve immediately and savor the delightful sweet and tangy treat!

Tip: These roll-ups are perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a midday snack. Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Tips to Avoid Leaks and Keep the Texture Just Right

  • Soften Cream Cheese Perfectly: Microwave cream cheese in short bursts to prevent overheating, ensuring a smooth and spreadable texture without burning.
  • Roll with Precision: Keep pastry edges clean while rolling by using a light touch and maintaining consistent pressure to create uniform, tight roll-ups.
  • Chill for Stability: Refrigerating the roll before slicing helps the pastry firm up, making it easier to cut clean, even sections without squishing the filling.
  • Prevent Sticking: Use parchment paper or lightly grease the baking sheet to ensure roll-ups don't stick and release easily after baking.
  • Glaze Like a Pro: Whisk the glaze until silky smooth and drizzle while rolls are slightly warm for the most appealing and appetizing presentation.

How to Store and Reheat These Roll-Ups Without Drying Them

  • Refrigeration: Carefully place leftover roll-ups in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, maintaining their delicate texture and flavor.
  • Reheating: Warm roll-ups gently in a preheated oven at 325 degrees F for 5-7 minutes. Avoid using the microwave, which can make the pastry soggy and compromise the crisp, flaky texture you worked hard to create.
  • Freezing: Wrap individual roll-ups tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Freeze for up to 2 months.

Festive Pairings for These Holiday-Inspired Treats

  • Pair with Sparkling Beverage: Complement the sweet and tangy cranberry cream cheese roll ups with a chilled prosecco or sparkling rosé. The bubbles will cut through the rich cream cheese and enhance the pastry's delicate flavor.
  • Match with Warm Drink: A hot chai latte or cinnamon-spiced tea creates a delightful contrast to the cool, creamy pastry. The warm spices will beautifully highlight the cranberry's tartness and the pastry's buttery texture.
  • Serve alongside Fruity Companion: Fresh raspberry sorbet or a light orange compote makes an excellent side dish. These fruity options will echo the cranberry's brightness and provide a refreshing palate cleanser between bites.
  • Combine with Nutty Side: A small handful of toasted pecans or additional sliced almonds will add crunch and depth to the roll ups. Their earthy notes will perfectly balance the sweet glaze and creamy filling.

Flavorful Twists to Try with Your Cranberry Roll Ups

  • Winter Berry Bliss: Swap cranberries for mixed frozen berries, adding a colorful winter-inspired fruity medley to the cream cheese roll ups.
  • Nutty Maple Magic: Replace sugar with maple syrup, fold in chopped pecans instead of almonds, creating a rich, woodsy flavor profile that enhances the pastry's warmth.
  • Citrus Sunrise Sensation: Incorporate orange zest into the cream cheese mixture, sprinkle dried mandarin oranges alongside cranberries for a bright, tangy alternative that brings sunshine to the classic recipe.
  • Chocolate Raspberry Indulgence: Mix dark chocolate chips with fresh raspberries, creating a decadent filling that transforms the roll ups into an elegant dessert with deep, complex flavors.
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Cranberry Cream Cheese Roll Ups Recipe

Cranberry Cream Cheese Roll Ups Recipe


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4.9 from 10 reviews

  • Total Time: 38 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Creamy cranberry cream cheese roll ups deliver delightful holiday cheer with minimal ingredients and maximum flavor. Delicate pastry spirals filled with tangy cream cheese and sweet cranberry sauce promise a festive treat you’ll savor with every delectable bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Filling Ingredients:

  • 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese (softened)
  • 1 cup (150 grams) dried cranberries (chopped)
  • ¼ cup (50 grams) sugar

Pastry and Additional Ingredients:

  • 1 sheet puff pastry, size: 9 x 9 inches (thawed)
  • All-purpose flour (for dusting)
  • 1 handful sliced almonds

Glaze Ingredients:

  • ½ cup (60 grams) confectioners’ sugar
  • 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) milk
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Soften cream cheese in a microwave-safe bowl for 30 seconds until easily spreadable. Mix in granulated sugar and pure vanilla extract, allowing the mixture to cool to a warm temperature.
  2. Dust a clean work surface with all-purpose flour. Gently unfold the puff pastry sheet, creating an even workspace.
  3. Spread the cream cheese mixture across the pastry, maintaining a 1-inch border along the far edge.
  4. Sprinkle chopped fresh cranberries evenly over the cream cheese layer, ensuring uniform fruit distribution.
  5. Carefully roll the pastry sheet tightly from the nearest edge, creating a compact log. Wrap securely in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 20 to 30 minutes to firm up the dough.
  6. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (204 degrees Celsius). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  7. Using a sharp serrated knife, slice the pastry log into 3/4-inch to 1-inch thick rounds. Position the pastry slices 1 to 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
  8. Bake for 14 to 18 minutes until the pastries rise to a golden brown color and cook completely through.
  9. Remove from the oven and allow to cool for 5 to 10 minutes, letting the pastries set.
  10. Prepare the glaze by whisking confectioners’ sugar with milk until smooth and drizzling consistency is achieved.
  11. Generously drizzle the glaze over each pastry and garnish with sliced almonds for added texture and visual appeal.
  12. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful cranberry cream cheese pastries.

Notes

  • Raid your pantry for fresh ingredients that make these roll-ups irresistibly delicious.
  • Cold cream cheese transforms into a silky smooth filling when gently microwaved and mixed with sweet vanilla.
  • Cranberries add a vibrant burst of tartness that perfectly balances the creamy cheese mixture.
  • Puff pastry becomes your secret weapon for creating golden, flaky layers that melt in your mouth.
  • Drizzling glossy glaze and sprinkling crunchy almonds elevates these treats from simple to spectacular.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 18 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 232 kcal
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg
Julian Park

Julian Park

Co-Founder, Cuisine Researcher & Food Culture Writer

Expertise

  • Global Food Cultures & Culinary History
  • Regional Flavor Profiles & Cooking Techniques
  • Food Anthropology & Cultural Identity
  • Culinary Research & Narrative Writing
  • Street Food Traditions & Heritage Dishes

Education

The Institute of Culinary Education (ICE), Los Angeles, CA

  • Degree: Certificate in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Professional culinary techniques, global cuisine fundamentals, and real-world training in restaurant-style cooking and food presentation.

Julian Park is a natural storyteller at The Dream Café who blends hands-on culinary experience with a passion for exploring global food traditions. A graduate of The Institute of Culinary Education in Los Angeles, Julian combines professional technique with a love for cultural discovery, diving into how dishes reflect heritage, migration, and identity. 

His work spans everything from in-depth cuisine guides to reflections on everyday meals around the world. With a curious palate and a journal always close by, Julian helps readers connect with food in a way that feels so insightful and personal.

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