Like “Pickle in a Blanket,” but cruelty-free and weirdly addictive
Craving something salty, crunchy, and snacky—without the meat sweats?
Look, I get it. Sometimes you want a snack that says “I have standards” but also “I will absolutely eat six of these in one sitting.” Enter: Vegan Pickle Roll-Ups — the plant-based cousin of that midwestern classic, Pickle in a Blanket.
You know the one. Pickle, wrapped in ham, smeared with cream cheese?
Weird? Yes. Delicious? Also yes.
But maybe you’re vegan now. Or lactose intolerant. Or just not vibing with wrapping vegetables in meat. That’s where this beauty comes in.
Why This Recipe is Awesome
- It’s plant-based, so no animals were harmed during your snack attack.
- Zero cooking required. You could literally make these at your desk if you’re bold enough.
- They’re weirdly fancy-adjacent. Like, you could bring them to a party and feel smug.
- Crunchy, creamy, tangy goodness. Basically everything you want in a snack.
- Oh—and they’re wildly customizable. You can go classic, spicy, or Mediterranean chic. You do you.
Plus, if you’re trying to convert someone to the Church of Vegan Snacks? This is a great gateway bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s your snack squad lineup:
- Dill pickles – whole spears or sandwich slices, your choice
- Vegan cream cheese – any brand you love (plain, chive, garlic herb… go wild)
- Vegan deli slices – like Tofurky, Field Roast, or whatever vaguely resembles lunch meat
- Optional extras:
- Everything bagel seasoning
- Fresh herbs (like dill or parsley)
- Sriracha or hot sauce (for drama)
- Spinach or lettuce (if you’re feeling responsible)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Dry your pickles.
Like, really dry them. Use paper towels or a clean kitchen towel and pat those bad boys down. If they’re too juicy, the whole thing turns into a slip-and-slide.
2. Spread the vegan cream cheese.
Lay out a vegan deli slice. Smear a generous amount of cream cheese all over one side. Don’t skimp—it’s the glue and the flavor hero.
3. Roll it up.
Place a pickle spear at the edge and roll it up like a tiny burrito. If you’re using sandwich slices instead of spears, roll them up tight and treat them like pinwheels.
4. Chill (optional).
Pop them in the fridge for 10–15 minutes if you want them firm and snappy. Or skip it if you’re impatient (same).
5. Slice and serve.
Cut into bite-sized pieces or eat whole, caveman-style. Sprinkle with herbs or seasoning if you’re trying to be extra.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not drying the pickles. Seriously. Wet pickles = soggy, sad roll-ups. Be firm. Be thorough. Be anti-moist.
- Using stiff or crumbly vegan deli slices. If they don’t bend, they don’t blend. Choose slices that roll easily and won’t crack under pressure.
- Overfilling. I get it. Cream cheese is life. But too much and you’ll end up with a mess that looks like it lost a fight with your fridge.
Alternatives & Substitutions
- No vegan cream cheese? Use hummus or mashed avocado. Different vibe, still awesome.
- No vegan deli slices? Use large spinach leaves, tortillas, or even roasted seaweed sheets. Wrap life finds a way.
- Want heat? Add a thin line of sriracha or sliced jalapeño before rolling. Snack and sweat. Worth it.
- Low-carb version? Skip the wrap entirely and just dip pickles into cream cheese like the minimalist legend you are.
- Make it a meal? Wrap several in a tortilla with greens and call it lunch. You’re welcome.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Can I use baby pickles?
Yes, but expect tiny, adorable roll-ups. Great for party platters. Or just for feeling fancy at home.
Do these hold up in the fridge?
They do! Keep them in an airtight container and they’ll last 1–2 days. Just maybe don’t prep them a week in advance unless you’re into limp pickle vibes.
Is there a good store-bought vegan cream cheese?
Totally. Kite Hill, Tofutti, Miyoko’s—all solid choices. Taste test until you find your soulmate.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yup—just make sure your deli slices and cream cheese are certified GF. Or skip the “meat” wrap and go all-veggie.
Do these work for picky eaters?
Weirdly, yes. They’re crunchy, creamy, and snackable. Just maybe don’t mention “vegan” until after they’re hooked.
Can I make this keto?
Almost! Use low-carb vegan cream cheese and ditch anything carby (like tortillas). Pickles and cream cheese are basically keto besties.
Final Thoughts
There you have it: Vegan Pickle Roll-Ups—snackable, shareable, and suspiciously good for something this easy.
Perfect for parties, Netflix nights, or pretending you’re the kind of person who plans snacks ahead of time. Whether you’re vegan, vegan-curious, or just pickle-obsessed, these little guys hit the spot.
So go ahead—roll a few up, stack ’em high, and snack like a legend.
You’ve earned your crunchy crown. 🥒👑