Cream Cheese Tortilla Bites are a fun and tasty snack! With soft tortillas filled with creamy cheese, crunchy veggies, and rolled up just right, they make perfect party treats.
These bites are super quick to make, and let’s be honest, they disappear faster than you can say “snack time”! I like to serve them with a dip for extra flavor—who doesn’t love a good dip? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flour Tortillas: Use large flour tortillas for a simple and soft wrap. If you prefer, corn tortillas can work too; just be mindful that they might be more fragile.
Cream Cheese: The star of the show! If you’re looking for a lighter option, try Neufchâtel cheese—it’s lower in fat but still creamy!
Fresh Herbs: I love using a mix of parsley and chives for a fresh taste. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried herbs can substitute, but use less—about 1 tablespoon should do!
Shredded Cheese: Cheddar is great, but feel free to mix it up! Pepper jack adds a spiciness, or you can use mozzarella for a milder flavor.
Salsa or Tomato Chutney: Store-bought works perfectly, but homemade salsa can enhance the flavor! You can also use guacamole for a twist.
How Do I Roll and Slice the Tortillas Properly?
Rolling and slicing tortillas can be tricky if you’re not careful. Here’s how to get it right:
- Make sure your filling isn’t too wet; otherwise, it’ll leak out. If needed, drain excess moisture.
- When rolling, start at one edge and keep it tight. This helps maintain the shape.
- After slicing, use a sharp knife to cut through without squishing the rolls. A serrated knife works well!
Chilling the rolled tortillas helps them hold together during slicing. So, don’t skip that step!
Cream Cheese Tortilla Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Bites:
- 6 large flour tortillas
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup finely chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, chives, or dill)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or your preferred cheese
- 1/2 cup salsa or tomato chutney
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme or parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
- Olive oil or melted butter for brushing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 1 hour and 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll need around 15 minutes to mix, spread, and roll the tortillas, plus an hour to chill in the refrigerator. Finally, you’ll bake them for about 12-15 minutes. Perfect for a quick and delightful snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Cream Cheese Mixture:
Start by placing the softened cream cheese in a medium bowl. Add the chopped fresh herbs, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s nice and smooth. This creamy mixture is the heart of your bites!
2. Prepare the Tortillas:
Lay out the flour tortillas on a clean surface like a countertop or cutting board. Use a spatula to spread a generous layer of the herb cream cheese mixture evenly over each tortilla, getting it right to the edges.
3. Add Cheese and Salsa:
Once the cream cheese is spread, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Then drop small dollops of salsa or tomato chutney across the tortilla—this will give your bites extra flavor when you take a bite!
4. Roll ‘Em Up:
Carefully roll each tortilla up tightly from one side to the other, creating a log shape. Don’t rush this part; a tighter roll will hold everything together better!
5. Chill for Easy Slicing:
Wrap the rolled tortillas in plastic wrap and pop them in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This is an important step that helps them firm up, making slicing much easier.
6. Bake the Bites:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take out the rolled tortillas and unwrap them. Lightly brush the outside with olive oil or melted butter for a delicious, crispy finish.
7. Slice and Arrange:
Using a sharp knife, slice each log into 1-inch bite-sized rounds. Place the slices cut side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake Until Golden:
Bake the tortilla bites in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and slightly crispy on the edges. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
9. Garnish and Serve:
Once they’re out of the oven, let them cool for a minute. If you want, garnish with some fresh thyme or parsley leaves. Serve your delicious tortilla bites warm with extra salsa or dip on the side for added flavor!
Enjoy these creamy, flavorful tortilla bites as an appetizer or snack. Their golden, crispy exterior and rich filling make them irresistible!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Tortillas Instead of Flour?
Absolutely! Whole wheat tortillas are a great option if you’re looking for a healthier alternative. Just keep in mind that they may have a slightly different texture, but they will still be delicious!
How Do I Store Leftover Tortilla Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy again!
Can I Make These Tortilla Bites Vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is inherently vegetarian! Just make sure to check the labels of your cream cheese and any cheese you use to confirm they don’t contain animal rennet. Feel free to add more veggies or beans for extra flavor and nutrition!
Can I Freeze These Tortilla Bites?
Yes, you can freeze the rolled, unbaked tortilla logs for up to 3 months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed!