Cream Cheese Tortilla Bites are fun little snacks that pack a creamy, cheesy punch! They’re made with soft tortillas stuffed with tasty cream cheese and your favorite veggies or meats.
These bites are perfect for parties or movie nights! I love how easy they are to make—just spread, roll, and slice. Plus, they disappear fast, so make a bunch! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortillas: Flour tortillas are soft and easy to roll. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, corn tortillas work too! They may need a bit more care when rolling but add a nice flavor.
Cream Cheese: This is the base for your filling. If you’re feeling adventurous, try using flavored cream cheese or Greek yogurt for a lighter option. It gives a fun twist to the taste!
Chives/Green Onions: Fresh chives add a lovely mild onion flavor. You can substitute with diced bell peppers for crunch or even a little fresh parsley for a different taste.
Bacon or Ham: These are optional but add protein and flavor. For a vegetarian version, try using black beans or diced avocado instead.
Spices: Smoked paprika gives a nice depth of flavor. If you like heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce can give it a spicy kick!
How Do I Roll the Tortilla Without It Breaking?
Rolling the tortillas can be tricky, but there are a couple of tips to get it just right. First, make sure to spread the cream cheese mixture evenly and not too thick. A thin layer allows for easier rolling!
- Use room temperature tortillas; they are more pliable and less likely to crack.
- Start rolling from one end tightly, but don’t pull too hard, just a gentle roll.
- If a tortilla cracks a little, don’t worry! Just cover it with the filling for extra flavor.
Wrapping the rolled tortillas in plastic wrap before chilling helps them hold their shape and makes slicing easier!
Cream Cheese Tortilla Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika or chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives or green onions, plus extra for garnish
- Optional: 1/2 cup finely chopped cooked bacon or ham
- Optional: 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- Cooking spray or a little oil for pan-frying
- Ranch or sour cream for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15-20 minutes of preparation time and an additional 30 minutes for chilling. You’ll spend a bit of time mixing, spreading, rolling, and slicing, but you’ll have a delicious snack ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (or chili powder), black pepper, salt, and chopped chives. If you’re using bacon or cheese, add those in too. Mix everything together until it’s smooth and creamy.
2. Spread the Mixture:
Lay each tortilla flat on a clean surface. Take your cream cheese mixture and spread it generously over the entire surface of each tortilla. Make sure to cover it all for a balanced flavor in every bite!
3. Roll It Up:
Carefully start rolling each tortilla tightly from one edge to the other. Keep it firm but not too tight to avoid squeezing out the filling. Once rolled, wrap each tortilla roll in plastic wrap and pop them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps them hold their shape when you slice them.
4. Slice the Rolls:
After chilling, take the rolls out of the fridge and unwrap them. Use a sharp knife to slice each roll into 1-inch thick pinwheels. This creates the cute bite-sized pieces perfect for snacking!
5. Cook the Pinwheels:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it with cooking spray or a little oil. Place the tortilla pinwheels in the skillet, cut side down, and cook until they’re golden and crisp—about 2-3 minutes. Carefully turn them to brown all sides evenly.
6. Arrange and Garnish:
Once cooked, remove the tortilla bites from the skillet and arrange them on a serving platter. Finish them off with extra chopped chives for a fresh touch!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
These creamy bites can be served warm or at room temperature. Pair them with ranch dressing or sour cream for dipping if you’d like. Enjoy your delicious Cream Cheese Tortilla Bites!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Tortillas Instead of Flour Tortillas?
Absolutely! Whole wheat tortillas are a great alternative for a healthier option. They will add a nuttier flavor and can work just as well in this recipe.
What Can I Substitute for Cream Cheese?
If you’re looking for a healthier or dairy-free option, you can use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. Just ensure whatever you choose is spreadable to achieve the right consistency.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover tortilla bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To enjoy them later, simply reheat in a skillet for a few minutes to regain that crispy texture!
Can I Make These Bites in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the rolls ahead of time! Roll and wrap them in plastic wrap, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before slicing and cooking. This helps save time on the day you plan to serve them!
