“These cranberry cream cheese crescent bites are a quick and delicious way to impress your guests!”
Imagine a flaky, buttery crescent wrapped around a rich, creamy filling, this is what you get with my Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites. A delightful touch of sweet cranberry sauce pairs beautifully with the tangy cream cheese, making it a show-stopping appetizer or snack. You’ll be eager to share this recipe with family and friends for everyday gatherings or holiday celebrations!
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Why Are Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites Perfect for Any Occasion?
Getting ready for the holiday season? These cranberry cream cheese crescent bites are not just tasty; they embody the flavors of the season! With their holiday-inspired ingredients, they are perfect for parties or cozy family dinners. They showcase a beautiful fusion of sweet and creamy, guaranteed to please your guests.
Aside from being holiday-friendly, these bites are superbly quick and easy to prepare, offering a lovely comfort food feel without overwhelming you in the kitchen. Plus, they’re vegetarian and can be made in large batches. If you’re looking for quick recipes that shine, don’t miss out on these! Check out another delightful recipe featuring cranberries!
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Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites
Delightful appetizer featuring flaky crescent dough filled with cream cheese and cranberry sauce.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 can Crescent roll dough
- 8 oz Cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup Cranberry sauce or whole cranberries
- 1/4 cup Sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon Cinnamon (optional)
- 1 Egg wash (1 egg beaten with a splash of water)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, and optional cinnamon. Mix until smooth.
- Unroll the crescent roll dough and cut into triangles.
- On the wide end of each triangle, place a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture followed by cranberry sauce.
- Roll the dough from the wide end to the point, sealing the edges.
- Brush the tops with egg wash for a golden finish.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow to cool before serving.
Notes
Serve warm for best flavor. These can be made ahead and reheated before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bite
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
What Makes This Cranberry Cream Cheese Version Special?
Why should you try this cranberry cream cheese crescent bites recipe instead of others? The essential elements of this dish lie in the balance of sweet and savory flavors combined with the warm, soft texture of the dough.
Perfectly Balanced Cream Cheese Filling
The combination of cream cheese with sugar and vanilla creates a luscious filling that has a hint of sweetness, making it a perfect contrast to the tartness of cranberry sauce. My use of vanilla adds a comforting depth that enhances the overall taste.
Flaky and Buttery Dough
Crescent roll dough provides a light, flaky exterior that perfectly complements the creamy, rich filling. Baking them until golden delivers a satisfying crunch that holds up against the filling without becoming soggy.
A Touch of Cinnamon
Optionally adding cinnamon takes these bites to another level by embedding warm, aromatic notes. It brings together the flavors beautifully, but feel free to leave it out if you prefer a cleaner taste. Learn more about cranberries’ health benefits!
What Ingredients Do I Need for Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites?
What you’ll need for this delicious recipe:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Crescent roll dough | 1 can |
| Cream cheese, softened | 8 oz |
| Cranberry sauce or whole cranberries | 1 cup |
| Sugar | 1/4 cup |
| Vanilla extract | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Cinnamon (optional) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Egg wash (1 egg beaten with a splash of water) | 1 |
Each ingredient plays a vital role in delivering a soft, tender bite packed with flavor. Cream cheese is not just for taste; it also lends a creamy texture that enhances the overall mouthfeel. Have fun experimenting with different types of cranberry flavors or sweeteners depending on your preference! Discover another flaky hand pie recipe you might love!
How Do I Make Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites Step-by-Step?
Cooking doesn’t have to be complicated! Here’s how to whip up these crescent bites:
Follow these easy steps to prepare and bake your crescent bites to perfection in under 30 minutes!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step ensures that your bites cook uniformly and achieve that lovely golden color we all crave!
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, and optional cinnamon. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy, with no lumps remaining. This creamy filling will take these bites from ordinary to extraordinary.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
Open the can of crescent roll dough and unroll it onto a flat surface. Cut the dough into individual triangles along the pre-scored lines. Each triangle serves as a base for your delicious filling.
Step 4: Fill Each Triangle
On the wide end of each dough triangle, place a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture followed by a spoonful of cranberry sauce. Be generous here! The goal is to have a flavorful bite in every mouthful.
Step 5: Roll and Shape
Roll the dough up, starting from the wide end toward the point, forming a cute little bite-sized package. Be sure to seal in the corners to keep the delicious filling from leaking out during baking.
Step 6: Egg Wash the Tops
Prepare the egg wash by mixing the beaten egg with a splash of water. Brush the tops of each crescent bite with this wash to achieve a beautiful golden, shiny finish when baked.
Step 7: Bake the Bites
Place the filled crescent bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown. The aroma wafting through your kitchen is an added bonus!
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, allow the bites to cool for a few moments before serving. This cooling step can heighten the flavors in each bite, and they’ll be easier to handle, too!
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|
| 10 minutes | 15 minutes | 25 minutes |
These tips create a crisp yet tender crust, while also allowing the delicious filling to shine through without being overwhelmed.
What Variations Can I Try with These Crescent Bites?
These cranberry cream cheese crescent bites are versatile! Feel free to experiment with flavors and ingredients based on your preferences.
Diet Swap
If you’re looking for a lower-carb alternative, consider using almond flour crescent dough or a gluten-free dough. Both options will still deliver that flaky texture everyone loves without the added carbs.
Flavor Variation
While cranberry is the star, these bites would work splendidly with other fruits, such as raspberry or cherry. Try using a cream cheese spread infused with orange zest for a refreshing twist, resulting in a unique flavor profile. How about checking out pumpkin as a filling option? Check this out!
Serving Idea
Consider laying out a platter with your cranberry cream cheese crescent bites accompanied by a tangy cranberry dip or an extra side of cranberry sauce for a delightful burst of flavor. Adding fresh herbs like mint or rosemary can enhance the presentation, too!
| Suggested Pairings | Tips |
|---|---|
| Creamy dips | Serve warm for best flavor |
| Fruit salads | Garnish with mint leaves |
Mixing flavors adds a fun twist to this traditional dish, making it an attractive serving option!
Final Thoughts on Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites
Eating these cranberry cream cheese crescent bites is like a bite of festive joy. With fresh, colorful ingredients and a delightful mix of textures, they’re bound to be your new go-to party snack. I encourage you to give this recipe a try during your next gathering or family dinner.
Plus, you can make them ahead of time and reheat them just before serving, keeping the prep stress low! If you love this recipe, don’t forget to share your kitchen creations on Pinterest! Pin this recipe for later!
FAQ
Can I use frozen cranberries instead of sauce?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries, but you’ll want to thaw and strain them first to eliminate excess moisture. This ensures your filling maintains its perfect consistency.
Can I prepare these crescent bites in advance?
You can absolutely assemble the bites and store them in the fridge for up to one day before baking. Just remember to brush them with egg wash right before baking for the best golden color.
What can I use as a substitute for cream cheese?
If you’re looking for a substitute, consider using ricotta cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative if lactose is a concern. Both options will yield a different flavor but still provide a creamy texture.
Can I make these crescent bites with different fruits?
Absolutely! While cranberries are delightful, you could swap them out for blueberries, feelings of summer in every bite! Adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of the fruit you choose.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes to restore their flaky texture.
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