Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites Recipe

Introduction

These Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites are a delightful blend of sweet and tart flavors wrapped in flaky crescent dough. Perfect for fall gatherings or holiday appetizers, they’re quick to prepare and sure to impress your guests.

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

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F. Grease or line a mini muffin tin to prevent sticking.
2. Step 2: In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
3. Step 3: Unroll the crescent dough and cut each triangle in half, creating smaller triangles. Press each piece firmly into the mini muffin cups, forming little cups.
4. Step 4: Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the cream cheese mixture into each dough cup, then add 1 teaspoon of whole berry cranberry sauce on top.
5. Step 5: If desired, sprinkle chopped pecans or orange zest over the top for added flavor and texture.
6. Step 6: Bake for 11 to 13 minutes, or until the crescent dough is golden brown and cooked through.
7. Step 7: Allow the bites to cool slightly before removing from the pan and serving.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crunch, toast the pecans before sprinkling them on top.
• Try substituting the cranberry sauce with raspberry or strawberry preserves for a different fruity twist.
• Use orange zest to add a bright citrus note that complements the cranberry’s tartness.

Storage

Store any leftover bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F for 5–7 minutes to regain crispness before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these bite-sized treats ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the bites a few hours ahead and refrigerate them before baking. Bake just before serving for the best texture and freshness.

Can I use regular cream cheese instead of softened?

Softened cream cheese is best for easy mixing and smooth filling. If using regular, briefly soften it at room temperature or microwave in short bursts.

Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites Recipe

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Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites are delightful little appetizers combining flaky crescent roll dough, creamy sweetened cream cheese, and tangy whole berry cranberry sauce. Perfect for fall snacking or holiday gatherings, these bite-sized treats are topped with optional pecans or orange zest for added texture and flavor.

• Author: Jeannette
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 22 minutes
• Yield: 16 bites 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dough

• 1 can crescent roll dough (8-count)

Filling

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup powdered sugar
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup whole berry cranberry sauce

Toppings (Optional)

• Chopped pecans
• Orange zest

Instructions

1. Preheat and prepare pan. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease or line a mini muffin tin to prevent sticking.
2. Make cream cheese filling. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix well until the filling is smooth and creamy.
3. Assemble dough in muffin cups. Unroll the crescent roll dough and cut each triangle in half to create smaller pieces. Press each piece firmly into the individual cups of the muffin tin, forming a small cup shape.
4. Add filling and cranberry sauce. Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the cream cheese mixture into each dough cup, followed by 1 teaspoon of whole berry cranberry sauce on top of the cream cheese layer.
5. Add toppings (optional). If desired, sprinkle chopped pecans or a little orange zest over each bite for extra flavor and crunch.
6. Bake to golden perfection. Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 11–13 minutes or until the crescent dough is golden brown and cooked through.
7. Cool and serve. Allow the bites to cool slightly in the pan before removing and serving warm or at room temperature.

Notes

• Sweet, tart, and totally addictive—these little bites make a perfect early fall snack or a festive holiday appetizer.
• Softening the cream cheese beforehand ensures a smooth, easy-to-spread filling.
• Feel free to experiment with other toppings like chopped walnuts or a drizzle of honey.

Keywords: cranberry, cream cheese, crescent rolls, bite-size appetizers, holiday snacks, fall recipes