Delicious Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites
Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites are a delightful get-together snack or an appetizer that brings together the warmth of baked dough and the tangy-sweet taste of cranberry. These bite-sized treats are perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to casual brunches. I discovered them during a festive family dinner, and their creamy filling coupled with the burst of cranberry flavor is simply irresistible. Plus, they come together quickly, making them a go-to recipe for last-minute entertaining.
Why you’ll love this dish
What makes these Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites truly special is how effortlessly they blend delicious flavors with simple ingredients. The recipe is budget-friendly, which is always a plus, and they appeal to both adults and kids alike. They’re great for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a holiday party, need a quick snack during game night, or want something sweet for brunch. Just pop them in the oven, and in no time, you’ll have a golden brown treat that everyone will adore!
“These Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites were a hit at our holiday party. They disappeared faster than I could have imagined!” – Happy Baker
Preparing Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites
Creating these delicious bites is straightforward, taking just a few steps to assemble. You’ll start by preheating your oven, prepping your cream cheese filling, and then baking your crescent bites to perfection. The overall process is quick, making them a wonderful option for both experienced cooks and those just starting out in the kitchen.
What you’ll need
Here’s your shopping list to whip up these delightful treats:
- 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 experiment with low-fat cream cheese or substitute with non-dairy options, making this recipe suitable for various dietary preferences.
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and prepare a mini muffin tin by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
- Open the can of crescent roll dough and unroll it. Cut each triangle in half to form smaller triangles.
- Press one triangle into each muffin cup, ensuring to cover the bottom and sides.
- Add 1 teaspoon of the cream cheese mixture into each cup, followed by 1 teaspoon of whole berry cranberry sauce on top.
- If desired, sprinkle with chopped pecans or grated orange zest.
- Bake in the oven for about 11–13 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
- Allow them to cool slightly before serving.
Best ways to enjoy it
These Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites are delightful on their own, but they can also be served alongside fresh fruit or a light salad for a balanced brunch option. Pair them with a warm cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon treat, or even a sparkling drink during festive gatherings. For added flair, consider garnishing with mint leaves or a dusting of extra powdered sugar.
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your leftover Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, a quick 5-7 minutes in a 350°F oven will restore their deliciousness without making them soggy. They can also be frozen, so if you make a big batch, simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and they’ll be good for up to 3 months.
Pro chef tips
To ensure the perfect texture, make sure your cream cheese is sufficiently softened before mixing. For an extra burst of flavor, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cream cheese mixture. Additionally, avoid overfilling the dough cups to prevent any spills while baking.
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? You can adapt this recipe in various ways! Experiment with different fruit preserves like raspberry or strawberry, or swap cranberries for chopped cherries for a unique taste. If you’re looking for a savory option, consider adding cooked bacon bits or diced jalapeños into the filling instead.
Your questions answered
-
How long does it take to make these bites?
On average, you’ll need about 30 minutes total—10 minutes for prep and approximately 13 minutes of baking time. -
Can I make them ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble them and refrigerate them before baking, allowing you to simply pop them into the oven when guests arrive. -
Are there any safe storage methods for leftovers?
Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze them for longer storage.
These Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites are not just appealing in taste but also incredibly practical, making them a must-try for your next gathering!
Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened) Make sure it's sufficiently softened for mixing.
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup whole berry cranberry sauce
- Optional chopped pecans or orange zest For topping.
For the Base
- 1 can crescent roll dough (8-count)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and prepare a mini muffin tin by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
- Open the can of crescent roll dough and unroll it. Cut each triangle in half to form smaller triangles.
- Press one triangle into each muffin cup, ensuring to cover the bottom and sides.
- Add 1 teaspoon of the cream cheese mixture into each cup, followed by 1 teaspoon of whole berry cranberry sauce on top.
- If desired, sprinkle with chopped pecans or grated orange zest.
Baking
- Bake in the oven for about 11–13 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
- Allow them to cool slightly before serving.
