These Cream Cheese Tortilla Bites are perfect for a snack or a fun appetizer! You just spread cream cheese on tortillas, add some tasty fillings, roll them up, and slice them into bite-sized pieces.
They look great on any table, and I love how you can make them with whatever you have at home! You can even switch up the fillings to keep it exciting. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flour Tortillas: Flour tortillas provide a soft and pliable base for these bites. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use whole wheat or spinach tortillas. Corn tortillas work too but may need a bit more care while rolling.
Cream Cheese: The star of this recipe! You can use regular or reduced-fat cream cheese. For a vegan option, try using a plant-based cream cheese. It won’t be quite the same, but it can work nicely.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a salty tang to the filling. If you’re not a fan, you can substitute it with goat cheese or even cottage cheese, though the flavor will change a bit.
Herbs: Fresh parsley adds brightness; however, cilantro or chives can be lovely alternatives based on your taste preferences.
How Do I Roll and Slice the Tortillas Perfectly?
Getting the roll right is so important for these bites! Here’s how to do it:
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over each tortilla, leaving a small space around the edges.
- Start rolling from one edge while keeping it tight but not too tight. You want the filling to stay inside without bursting out.
- Once rolled, press gently on the seam to seal it. This will help keep everything inside when you slice.
- Use a sharp knife to cut 1-inch pieces. For best results, slice with a gentle sawing motion to avoid squishing the rolls.
These tips will help you achieve neat, bite-sized pieces that look great on a platter! Enjoy making your Cream Cheese Tortilla Bites!
How to Make Cream Cheese Tortilla Bites
Ingredients for Your Bites:
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil or cooking spray, for pan-frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty recipe will take you about 15 minutes to prepare, plus about 6 minutes for cooking. In just under 30 minutes, you’ll have delicious Cream Cheese Tortilla Bites ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
Grab a medium bowl and mix together the softened cream cheese, crumbled feta cheese, chopped parsley, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well until everything is nicely blended and creamy. This will be your flavorful filling!
2. Spread the Cream Cheese Mixture:
Take your tortillas and lay them flat on a clean surface or cutting board. Use a spatula or a knife to spread an even layer of the cream cheese mixture onto each tortilla, making sure to leave a little space around the edges so the filling doesn’t spill out while rolling.
3. Roll Up the Tortillas:
Starting from one edge, tightly roll up each tortilla to create a log shape. Aim to be gentle but firm, ensuring the filling stays inside. Once rolled, press gently on the seam to help keep it secure.
4. Slice the Rolled Tortillas:
Using a sharp knife, slice the rolled tortillas into 1-inch thick pieces to make bite-sized pinwheels. This should give you little rounds that look adorable and are ready for cooking!
5. Cook the Tortilla Bites:
Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a bit of olive oil or spray the pan lightly with cooking spray. Once the pan is warm, place the tortilla bites in it, cut-side down. Allow them to cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and slightly crispy. You might need to do this in batches if your pan is small.
6. Arrange and Garnish:
Once everything is nicely golden, remove the tortilla bites from the skillet and arrange them on a serving platter. For an extra touch, sprinkle some additional smoked paprika and chopped parsley on top for garnish.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
These bites are best served warm but can also be enjoyed at room temperature. Feel free to pair them with your favorite dipping sauce, like salsa or ranch, for an extra delicious treat!
Enjoy your creamy, crispy, and flavorful Cream Cheese Tortilla Bites!
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! While feta adds a nice tang, you can substitute it with goat cheese, cottage cheese, or even shredded cheddar for a different flavor. Just remember that the taste and texture will change slightly with different cheeses.
How Can I Make These Tortilla Bites Spicier?
If you’re looking to add some heat, consider mixing in chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling. You could also serve them with a spicy salsa or hot sauce for extra kick!
Can I Prepare These in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the tortilla logs and refrigerate them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just slice and cook them right when you’re ready to serve!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat until heated through, or pop them in the microwave for a quick warm-up!
