These Turkey Bacon Cranberry Roll-Ups are the perfect combination of savory and sweet. The crispy bacon provides a satisfying crunch, while the creamy cranberry filling offers a burst of flavor in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a festive party or just craving a quick snack, these bite-sized rolls are sure to steal the show.
They are also incredibly easy to customize. You can swap out the turkey bacon for another variety of bacon or even try adding different herbs and spices to the cream cheese mixture. If you’re looking to serve something a little more festive, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley to add a touch of color and flavor.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 lb turkey bacon
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1 cup fresh cranberries, chopped
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4 oz cream cheese, softened
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2 tbsp honey
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1 tbsp Dijon mustard
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1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
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1/4 tsp ground black pepper
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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In a small bowl, mix the cream cheese, honey, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, and black pepper together until smooth.
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Lay the turkey bacon slices flat on a cutting board. Spread a thin layer of the cream cheese mixture onto each slice.
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Sprinkle the chopped cranberries evenly over the cream cheese spread.
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Carefully roll up each slice of turkey bacon, securing the filling inside.
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Place the rolled-up turkey bacon pieces on a baking sheet, lined with parchment paper.
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Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and browned.
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Once baked, remove the roll-ups from the oven and let cool slightly.
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Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 140 kcal
Servings: 6 servings
The Allure of Turkey Bacon Cranberry Roll-Ups
The charm of this recipe lies in its simplicity. The ingredients come together effortlessly to create a flavorful and visually appealing appetizer. The salty turkey bacon complements the sweet cranberries, while the cream cheese mixture adds a rich and creamy texture. The addition of green onions elevates the dish, bringing in a subtle hint of sharpness and freshness. These roll-ups are not just delicious, they’re also a treat for the eyes.
Turkey Bacon Cranberry Roll-Ups can be prepared ahead of time, making them an ideal choice for busy hosts. The dish requires minimal cooking time, yet it delivers a big punch of flavor. The key is in allowing the rolled-up tortillas to chill in the refrigerator for an hour (or up to 24 hours), which helps the flavors meld together and ensures a firm and cohesive roll-up.
Simple and Flexible Ingredients
This recipe features a few simple ingredients that are commonly available in most kitchens. The base of the roll-up is a combination of cream cheese, crispy bacon, chopped dried cranberries, and sliced green onions. Spread this filling over tortillas and top with slices of deli-style turkey. The turkey adds a lean protein element that balances the richness of the bacon and cream cheese. You can choose from whole wheat tortillas or traditional flour tortillas, depending on your preference.
What makes this recipe flexible is its versatility. You can easily swap ingredients to suit your tastes or dietary restrictions. For instance, try adding a bit of garlic powder for a more savory flavor, or use a plant-based cream cheese for a dairy-free version. You can even substitute turkey for chicken or ham, depending on your preferences. The choice is yours, but the basic idea of the turkey bacon, cranberry, and cream cheese combo will always shine through.
An Appetizer for Any Occasion
These Turkey Bacon Cranberry Roll-Ups are perfect for a variety of occasions. From casual family dinners to more formal gatherings, they are sure to be a hit. Their bite-sized nature makes them easy to serve and enjoy, especially when you’re hosting a large group. Simply slice the rolled-up tortillas into smaller pieces, and secure them with toothpicks for easy serving.
The color contrast between the cream-colored cream cheese filling, the crispy bacon, and the vibrant red cranberries also makes this dish visually appealing. It’s the kind of appetizer that draws attention and invites curiosity. Guests will love how delicious and visually exciting these roll-ups are.
Make-Ahead Convenience
One of the best parts about Turkey Bacon Cranberry Roll-Ups is that they can be made in advance. You can prepare them a few hours ahead of time or even the day before. All you need to do is store them in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, to allow the flavors to meld. This makes them a fantastic choice for busy hosts who want to prepare as much as possible ahead of time. The roll-ups hold up well in the fridge, ensuring that your appetizers are fresh and flavorful when you’re ready to serve them.
Perfect Pairings
While Turkey Bacon Cranberry Roll-Ups are delicious on their own, they can also be paired with other appetizers or dips to create a more diverse spread. For example, serve them alongside a tangy mustard dip, a creamy ranch sauce, or a light vinaigrette. The possibilities are endless when it comes to dipping sauces, allowing you to customize the flavor profile to your liking.
If you’re creating a holiday spread, these roll-ups pair wonderfully with festive drinks such as sparkling cider, mulled wine, or even a signature cocktail. Their sweet and savory combination makes them an ideal match for both savory and sweet beverages.
Nutritional Benefits of Turkey Bacon Cranberry Roll-Ups
While these roll-ups may seem indulgent, they offer a few nutritional benefits as well. Turkey bacon, for instance, is a leaner alternative to traditional pork bacon, providing less fat while still delivering a crispy texture. The addition of cranberries brings in a burst of antioxidants, which are known to support heart health and boost the immune system. Moreover, the cream cheese offers a creamy texture without being overly rich, making the dish satisfying but not too heavy.
However, like all appetizers, it’s important to consume these roll-ups in moderation. They can be a great addition to a balanced meal, but they should not replace whole, nutrient-dense foods. The key is enjoying them as a tasty treat that complements other dishes on your menu.
Serving Suggestions
Turkey Bacon Cranberry Roll-Ups are versatile enough to serve at any event. Here are a few serving ideas:
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Holiday Parties: These roll-ups are the perfect finger food for holiday gatherings. Pair them with other appetizers like a cheese platter, deviled eggs, or mini quiches for a delightful spread.
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Buffets and Potlucks: When you need to bring something simple yet impressive to a potluck, Turkey Bacon Cranberry Roll-Ups are sure to please the crowd. Their bite-sized portions make them easy to share and enjoy.
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Family Dinners: Whether you’re hosting a cozy family meal or a special dinner with friends, these roll-ups are a fantastic appetizer to kick off the evening.
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Brunches: Serve them as a fun and flavorful addition to your brunch spread. Their light yet satisfying texture complements classic brunch items like eggs, fresh fruit, and pastries.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Turkey Bacon Cranberry Roll-Ups are a must-try appetizer that offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The combination of turkey, bacon, cream cheese, and cranberries makes for a delicious and visually appealing dish that will undoubtedly be a hit at your next gathering. Whether you’re planning a holiday feast or simply looking for a tasty snack, these roll-ups are easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy.
These roll-ups also offer versatility and the convenience of being made ahead of time, making them an excellent choice for busy hosts. And with the option to customize the ingredients, you can make them your own. So, why not give these Turkey Bacon Cranberry Roll-Ups a try? They’re sure to become a favorite at your table for years to come.
Enjoy making this simple yet flavorful appetizer, and don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family!