Cranberry Jalapeño Philly Rolls (Printable)

Tangy, spicy cranberry jalapeño filling baked in soft Philly-style rolls for a festive appetizer.

# What You'll Need:

→ Cranberry Jalapeño Filling

01 - 1 cup fresh cranberries, finely chopped
02 - 1 jalapeño pepper, 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

09 - 1 package Hawaiian-style or Philadelphia-style dinner rolls (12 count)
10 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

# Cooking Steps:

01 - Combine the finely chopped cranberries, diced jalapeño, sliced green onions, chopped cilantro, granulated sugar, lime juice, and salt in a medium mixing bowl. Mix thoroughly and let stand for 10 minutes so the flavors blend and cranberries release juices.
02 - In a separate mixing bowl, spread the softened cream cheese into an even layer.
03 - Drain excess liquid from the cranberry jalapeño mixture. Gently fold the mixture into the cream cheese until evenly combined.
04 - Split the dinner rolls horizontally using a serrated knife, keeping the bottoms intact. Arrange the bottom half in a baking dish.
05 - Evenly spread the cranberry jalapeño cream cheese mixture over the bottom layer of rolls.
06 - Replace the top halves of the rolls. Brush melted butter over the surfaces using a pastry brush.
07 - Set oven to 350°F. Bake rolls in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the tops are golden and filling is warmed through.
08 - Remove rolls from the oven and allow to cool slightly. Separate into individual pieces for serving.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Vibrant holiday appetizer that combines sweet and spicy flavors
  • Easy to assemble and guaranteed crowd pleaser for gatherings
02 -
  • Contains dairy and wheat; check package labels for possible egg or soy in rolls.
  • Pairs wonderfully with sparkling cider or crisp white wine for festive gatherings.
03 -
  • Let the cranberry mixture stand so flavors intensify before combining with cheese.
  • Bake just until rolls are lightly golden to keep them soft and pillowy.