In my kitchen, these delightful cranberry cream cheese crescent bites are a go-to for any gathering. With their crispy, buttery exterior and creamy, tart filling, they never fail to impress. Whether it’s for a holiday brunch, a festive party, or a cozy family get-together, these bites are sure to be a hit. Plus, they’re so easy to whip up that you can have them ready in no time!
Why You’ll Love This Dish
These cranberry cream cheese crescent bites are more than just a tasty treat; they bring people together. They make for an impressive appetizer or a sweet addition to your dessert table without requiring hours in the kitchen. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, they combine the richness of cream cheese with the tartness of cranberry, balancing flavors beautifully.
Time Breakdown
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 11–13 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 8 bites
Preparing Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites
Get ready for a simple yet rewarding cooking experience! These bites come together in just a few easy steps. First, we’ll prepare the creamy filling, then shape the dough into delightful little cups, and finally, bake until golden.
What You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients to make your delicious cranberry cream cheese crescent bites:
- 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
Feel free to get creative! Substituting the cream cheese with a dairy-free option is perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare your tin: Grease or line a mini muffin tin, so the bites don’t stick.
- Mix the filling: In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Whisk together until creamy and smooth.
- Work with the dough: Unroll the crescent roll dough and cut each triangle in half, creating smaller triangles.
- Form the cups: Press each triangle into the greased muffin cups, shaping them to fit like little cups.
- Add the filling: Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the cream cheese mixture into each cup, followed by 1 teaspoon of cranberry sauce.
- Top it off: If desired, sprinkle with chopped pecans or orange zest for an extra zing!
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 11–13 minutes, or until golden and crisp.
- Cool and serve: Let them cool slightly before serving; they’re best warm!
Best Ways to Enjoy It
These cranberry cream cheese crescent bites can be served warm straight from the oven or at room temperature. They pair wonderfully with a sparkling drink, hot cider, or a rich coffee. Perfect as a starter or a sweet treat to end the meal!
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
To store any leftovers, place the bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to three days. If you want to enjoy them later, you can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5–7 minutes, or until warmed through. Just make sure to consume leftovers within a week for maximum freshness!
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Soften Cream Cheese: For a smoother filling, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing.
- Crescent Roll Alternatives: If you can’t find crescent roll dough, puff pastry dough works in a pinch.
- Add a Kick: For a zesty note, add a bit of lemon juice to the cream cheese mixture!
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the filling a day in advance for quicker assembly on the day of serving.
Creative Twists
Feel free to play around with ingredients! Use a different fruit preserve or jam, like raspberry or apricot, to switch up the flavors. You could also try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cream cheese for a warm spice kick. For gluten-free options, search for gluten-free crescent roll alternatives, and you’re all set!
