Cranberry Jalapeño Philly Rolls

Featured in: Seasonal Bite Hits

These Cranberry Jalapeño Philly Rolls combine tart cranberries, zesty jalapeños, and smooth cream cheese for vibrant flavor in every bite. The filling is layered onto pillowy Philly-style rolls, brushed with buttery goodness, and baked until golden and warm. Whether you're looking for a crowd-pleasing starter or a festive party snack, these rolls deliver a delightful balance of creamy, tangy, and spicy notes. Serve them straight from the oven for an irresistible melt-in-your-mouth experience. Quick to prepare and easy to portion, they're perfect for holiday tables, potlucks, or casual gatherings.

Updated on Mon, 27 Oct 2025 15:16:00 GMT
Creamy cranberry jalapeño dip rolled in warm, soft Philly rolls for parties.  Save
Creamy cranberry jalapeño dip rolled in warm, soft Philly rolls for parties. | whambite.com

A festive fusion of creamy, tangy, and spicy cranberry jalapeño dip rolled into pillowy soft Philly-style rolls, perfect for parties or holiday gatherings.

I first made these for a holiday gathering, and the combination of flavors was an instant hit. Friends kept asking for the recipe, and now it's a staple at every festive event.

Ingredients

  • Fresh cranberries: 1 cup, finely chopped
  • Jalapeño: 1, seeded and finely diced
  • Green onions: 1/4 cup, thinly sliced
  • Fresh cilantro: 1/4 cup, chopped
  • Granulated sugar: 1/2 cup
  • Lime juice: 2 tablespoons
  • Salt: 1/8 teaspoon
  • Cream cheese: 8 oz (225 g), softened
  • Hawaiian or Philly-style dinner rolls: 1 package (12 count)
  • Unsalted butter: 2 tablespoons, melted

Instructions

Mix cranberry filling:
In a medium bowl, combine cranberries, jalapeño, green onions, cilantro, sugar, lime juice, and salt. Mix and let sit for 10 minutes to meld flavors.
Prepare cream cheese base:
In a separate bowl, spread softened cream cheese into an even layer.
Combine dip:
Drain excess liquid from the cranberry mixture. Fold gently into the cream cheese until well combined.
Slice rolls:
Slice rolls in half horizontally, keeping bottoms intact as a single slab. Place bottom halves in baking dish.
Assembly:
Spread cranberry jalapeño cream cheese mixture evenly over bottom layer. Place roll tops back on.
Butter tops:
Brush melted butter evenly over roll tops.
Bake:
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, until rolls are warm and tops are golden.
Serve:
Allow to cool slightly. Separate into individual rolls and serve.
Festive cranberry jalapeño dip nestled in golden baked rolls, a delightful appetizer.  Save
Festive cranberry jalapeño dip nestled in golden baked rolls, a delightful appetizer. | whambite.com

We love making these together as a family, sharing laughs as we roll and bake. The sweet and spicy aroma always brings everyone into the kitchen.

Required Tools

Mixing bowls, serrated knife, baking dish, pastry brush, and oven are all you need to bring these rolls to life.

Allergen Information

Contains dairy (cream cheese, butter) and wheat (rolls). Check labels for possible egg or soy.

Nutritional Information

Each serving has about 185 calories, 8 g fat, 25 g carbohydrates, and 4 g protein.

Spicy cranberry dip spread on pillowy rolls, perfect for holiday gatherings and celebrations. Save
Spicy cranberry dip spread on pillowy rolls, perfect for holiday gatherings and celebrations. | whambite.com

Serve warm and watch them disappear quickly. They're guaranteed to become a favorite at any gathering.

Kitchen Guide

How do I make the cranberry jalapeño filling?

Combine finely chopped cranberries, diced jalapeño, green onions, cilantro, sugar, lime juice, and salt, then fold into softened cream cheese after letting flavors meld.

Can I use a different cheese for the filling?

Yes, substitute goat cheese for a tangier result or use your favorite soft cheese for personal preference.

What type of rolls work best?

Philly-style or Hawaiian dinner rolls provide a soft, pillowy base, ideal for soaking up the creamy filling.

Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, all listed ingredients are vegetarian-friendly. Please check roll labels for any added animal products if needed.

How can I add more heat to the rolls?

Retain some jalapeño seeds or add a pinch of cayenne to the mix for extra spiciness.

What are suggested pairing drinks?

A crisp white wine or sparkling cider pairs well with these tangy, creamy rolls.

Cranberry Jalapeño Philly Rolls

Creamy, spicy cranberry jalapeño filling wrapped in soft Philly rolls for festive, bite-size appetizers.

Prep Duration
20 min
Cook Duration
20 min
Complete Duration
40 min
Created by Brandon Ellis


Skill Level Easy

Heritage American

Output 12 Portions

Diet Requirements Meat-Free

What You'll Need

Cranberry Jalapeño Dip

01 1 cup fresh cranberries, finely chopped
02 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely diced
03 1/4 cup green onions, thinly sliced
04 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
05 1/2 cup granulated sugar
06 2 tablespoons lime juice
07 1/8 teaspoon salt
08 8 ounces cream cheese, softened

Rolls

01 1 package Hawaiian or Philly-style dinner rolls (12 count)
02 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Method

Phase 01

Prepare Cranberry Jalapeño Mixture: In a medium mixing bowl, combine chopped cranberries, diced jalapeño, sliced green onions, cilantro, sugar, lime juice, and salt. Mix thoroughly and set aside to rest for 10 minutes to allow flavors to blend.

Phase 02

Prepare Cream Cheese Base: Using a separate bowl, spread softened cream cheese into an even layer.

Phase 03

Combine Dip Components: Drain excess liquid from the cranberry mixture and gently fold into the cream cheese until a cohesive mixture forms.

Phase 04

Slice and Assemble Rolls: Slice dinner rolls horizontally, leaving the bottom section as one slab. Arrange the bottom layer in a baking dish.

Phase 05

Layer Filling: Evenly distribute the cranberry jalapeño cream cheese across the bottom layer of rolls.

Phase 06

Close Rolls and Butter Tops: Replace the top halves of the rolls, then brush melted butter over the crowns.

Phase 07

Bake Rolls: Transfer baking dish to the oven and bake at 350°F for 15 to 20 minutes, until rolls are warmed and tops are lightly golden.

Phase 08

Finish and Serve: Remove from oven, cool slightly, separate rolls, and serve warm.

Kitchen Tools

  • Mixing bowls
  • Serrated knife
  • Baking dish
  • Pastry brush
  • Oven

Allergy Guide

Review ingredients carefully for potential allergens and seek professional medical guidance if unsure
  • Contains dairy (cream cheese, butter) and wheat (dinner rolls).
  • May contain egg or soy depending on roll brand; verify package labels.

Nutrient Breakdown (per portion)

Numbers shown are estimates only - consult healthcare providers for specific advice
  • Energy: 185
  • Fats: 8 g
  • Carbohydrates: 25 g
  • Proteins: 4 g