Turn up the flavor at your next party with these irresistibly creamy, spicy, and colorful roll-ups! The smooth cream cheese pairs perfectly with the zesty kick of hot pepper jelly, while crisp bell peppers and cucumbers add a refreshing crunch. These bite-sized delights are a crowd-pleasing favorite that come together quickly and can be made ahead perfect for busy hosts or spontaneous gatherings.
Ingredients:
- 8 large flour tortillas
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup hot pepper jelly
- 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
- 1/2 cup sliced cucumbers
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese and hot pepper jelly. Stir until the mixture is smooth and evenly blended.
- Lay one tortilla flat on a clean work surface. Spread a generous layer of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the entire tortilla.
- Distribute sliced bell peppers and cucumbers evenly across the surface. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Starting from one edge, roll the tortilla tightly into a log shape. Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas and filling.
- Wrap each rolled tortilla in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up for easier slicing.
- When ready to serve, remove the plastic wrap and slice each roll into bite-sized pinwheels. Arrange neatly on a serving platter and enjoy!
Variation
- Sweet & Mild Version: Substitute the hot pepper jelly with a sweet red pepper jelly or apricot preserves for a milder flavor that still delivers a tangy-sweet bite.
- Add Protein: Mix in shredded rotisserie chicken or deli turkey to the filling for a heartier option that transforms these appetizers into a light lunch wrap.
- Herb Lovers’ Twist: Add a handful of chopped green onions, dill, or parsley to the cream cheese mixture for extra freshness and flavor depth.
- Cheesy Upgrade: Sprinkle shredded sharp cheddar or pepper jack cheese before rolling for a melt-in-your-mouth richness.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing for the smoothest, most spreadable texture.
- For cleaner slices, use a sharp serrated knife and wipe it between cuts to prevent smearing.
- These roll-ups can be made a day in advance just keep them wrapped tightly and chilled until ready to slice and serve.
Serving Suggestions
- Party Platter Favorite: Arrange the roll-ups in concentric circles on a serving tray and garnish with cilantro sprigs or sliced jalapeños for a colorful presentation.
- Pair with Dips: Serve alongside guacamole, salsa, or a cool ranch dip for added variety and flavor contrast.
- Light Lunch Option: Pair a few roll-ups with a fresh green salad or a cup of soup for a quick, satisfying midday meal.
Tips
- Keep It Tight: Roll the tortillas as snugly as possible to prevent the filling from spilling out when sliced.
- Use Fresh Tortillas: Slightly warm tortillas are easier to roll and less likely to tear.
- Customize the Heat: Adjust the spice level by choosing a milder or hotter pepper jelly or mix half hot and half sweet for balanced heat.
Prep Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Protein: 3 g
- Sodium: 210 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make these roll-ups ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare them up to 24 hours in advance. Keep them tightly wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator until ready to slice and serve. - What kind of pepper jelly should I use?
Any brand or homemade version will work choose your spice level! Jalapeño, habanero, or red chili jellies are all delicious options. - Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just swap out the flour tortillas for gluten-free tortillas or wraps. - How do I prevent soggy roll-ups?
Avoid overfilling and make sure vegetables are patted dry before adding them. Chilling before slicing also helps everything hold together neatly.
Conclusion
These Hot Pepper Jelly and Cream Cheese Party Roll-Ups are a surefire hit for any get-together. With their perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and crunchy textures, they’re as fun to make as they are to eat. Whether you serve them as appetizers, snacks, or light lunches, these colorful pinwheels bring a pop of flavor and flair to every occasion!
Print
Hot Pepper Jelly and Cream Cheese Party Roll-Ups
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings (about 6–8 roll-ups each) 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Turn up the flavor at your next party with these irresistibly creamy, spicy, and colorful roll-ups! The smooth cream cheese pairs perfectly with the zesty kick of hot pepper jelly, while crisp bell peppers and cucumbers add a refreshing crunch. These bite-sized delights are a crowd-pleasing favorite that come together quickly and can be made ahead perfect for busy hosts or spontaneous gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 large flour tortillas
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup hot pepper jelly
- 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
- 1/2 cup sliced cucumbers
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese and hot pepper jelly. Stir until the mixture is smooth and evenly blended.
- Lay one tortilla flat on a clean work surface. Spread a generous layer of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the entire tortilla.
- Distribute sliced bell peppers and cucumbers evenly across the surface. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Starting from one edge, roll the tortilla tightly into a log shape. Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas and filling.
- Wrap each rolled tortilla in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up for easier slicing.
- When ready to serve, remove the plastic wrap and slice each roll into bite-sized pinwheels. Arrange neatly on a serving platter and enjoy!
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing for the smoothest, most spreadable texture.
- For cleaner slices, use a sharp serrated knife and wipe it between cuts to prevent smearing.
- These roll-ups can be made a day in advance just keep them wrapped tightly and chilled until ready to slice and serve.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack, Party Food
- Method: No-Cook, Rolled
- Cuisine: American, Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approximately 1/8 of recipe)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 210 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 16 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
Keywords: hot pepper jelly roll-ups, cream cheese tortilla roll-ups, spicy appetizer, no-cook snacks, party pinwheels