Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites

Why Make This Recipe

Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites are a delightful treat that brings together the creamy richness of cream cheese and the tart sweetness of cranberry sauce. They are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday gathering, a family party, or just a cozy night in. These bites are easy to make, and they impress everyone with their delicious flavor and appealing presentation. Plus, they only take a short time to bake, making them a great choice for any busy cook.

How to Make Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites

Ingredients

• 1 can crescent roll dough (8-count)
• 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
• ¼ cup powdered sugar
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup whole berry cranberry sauce
• Optional: chopped pecans or orange zest for topping

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease or line a mini muffin tin.
2. In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
3. Unroll the crescent roll dough and cut each triangle in half.
4. Press each half of the dough into the mini muffin cups, forming a little shell.
5. Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the cream cheese filling into each shell, then add 1 teaspoon of cranberry sauce on top.
6. If desired, sprinkle chopped pecans or orange zest over the top for added flavor and crunch.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 11-13 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

How to Serve Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites

These bites are best served warm, straight from the oven. You can place them on a festive platter for a pretty presentation. They also make a great appetizer or snack during holiday parties or family gatherings. Garnishing with extra cranberries or nuts on top may enhance their look and taste.

How to Store Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites

Store any leftover Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat them in the oven or microwave until warm.

Tips to Make Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites

• To make the filling even creamier, let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for a bit before mixing.
• You can use different flavors of jam or sauce instead of cranberry for a fun twist.
• If the dough is too sticky to handle, keep your hands lightly floured while working with it.

Variation

For a more citrusy flavor, you can add orange zest to the cream cheese filling. You can also swap out the whole berry cranberry sauce for a cranberry chutney for a different taste.

FAQs

Q: Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
A: Yes, low-fat cream cheese works well in this recipe, though it may affect the richness slightly.

Q: Can I prepare these bites in advance?
A: Yes, you can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Assemble and bake them just before serving.

Q: What can I serve with these bites?
A: They pair nicely with a variety of drinks, such as hot cider, coffee, or even a light sparkling wine.

Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites

These delightful Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites are a perfect blend of tangy cranberries and creamy cheese baked in a flaky crescent roll. They are ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings 12 bites

Calories 180 kcal

Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer (optional)
• Spoon
• Wire rack

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 (8-count) can refrigerated crescent rolls
• 1/2 cup whole berry cranberry sauce
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

 

Preparation

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
• Unroll the crescent dough and separate it into 8 triangles.
• Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over each crescent triangle.
• Spoon a tablespoon of cranberry sauce onto the wide end of each triangle.
• Roll up each crescent from the wide end towards the pointed tip, then arrange them on the prepared baking sheet.

Baking

• Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown. Let them cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.

Serving

• Dust with powdered sugar before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Notes

For an extra touch, add a pinch of orange zest to the cream cheese mixture. These bites can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 4 days.