Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites

Imagine a swirl of tangy cranberry and creamy sweetness, all tucked inside a warm, golden crescent roll, sprinkled with crunchy pecans. These Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites are that dream come true! They are impossibly easy to make and vanish just as quickly, making them perfect for any gathering.

Why You’ll Love These Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites

These delightful treats are more than just a recipe; they are a bite of pure joy, designed to make your life easier and your taste buds sing. Here’s why you’ll adore these Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites:

• Effortlessly Elegant: They look sophisticated but require minimal effort, perfect for impressing guests.
• Ready in a Flash: From start to oven, you’re looking at less than 15 minutes of prep time.
• Flavor Harmony: The tartness of cranberry beautifully balances the rich cream cheese and buttery crescent dough.
• Versatile & Adaptable: Serve them as a breakfast pastry, a festive brunch item, or a delightful dessert.
• Budget-Friendly Bliss: Made with readily available and affordable ingredients.
• Kid-Friendly Fun: Little hands can help spread the filling and roll up the dough.
• Sensory Delight: Enjoy the warm, flaky crust, creamy interior, and nutty crunch in every bite.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for holidays, potlucks, or a cozy weekend treat.

Ingredients Needed for Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites

Gathering your ingredients for these scrumptious bites is simple. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the perfect flavor and texture, so choose quality where you can.

• 1 package (8 ounces / 226g) crescent roll dough: Opt for the classic refrigerated kind for best results.
• 4 ounces (113g) cream cheese, softened: Full-fat cream cheese yields the creamiest texture. Remember to let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes.
• 1/4 cup (50g) cranberry sauce: Canned jellied or whole berry sauce works wonderfully. If using whole berry, give it a quick mash.
• 2 tablespoons (25g) powdered sugar: Also known as confectioners’ sugar, this sweetens the cream cheese mixture smoothly.
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Pure vanilla extract enhances all the sweet flavors.
• 1/4 cup (30g) chopped pecans: Freshly chopped pecans add a delightful crunch and nutty depth.
• 1 tablespoon (15g) melted butter: Unsalted butter is preferred for brushing, allowing you to control the saltiness.

YOU MIGHT LOVE: Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring – A savory twist on crescent dough, perfect for entertaining!

Essential Equipment for Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites

You won’t need a gourmet kitchen for these easy Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites. Just a few basic tools will get the job done!

• Baking sheet: Essential for baking an even batch.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
• Mixing bowl: For combining the creamy filling ingredients.
• Whisk or rubber spatula: To ensure a smooth, lump-free cream cheese mixture.
• Pastry brush: Ideal for evenly coating the crescent bites with melted butter for that golden finish.

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Recipe Overview

Here’s a quick glance at what you can expect:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
• Total Time: 25-27 minutes
• Servings: 8 bites
• Difficulty: Easy

Step-by-Step Instructions to Create Your Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites

Let’s get baking! Follow these simple steps to bring these irresistible bites to life, ensuring each one is perfectly golden and bursting with flavor.

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lay out a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper for non-stick baking and easy cleanup.
2. Unroll the crescent dough carefully on a clean surface. Separate the dough into 8 distinct triangles along the perforations. This provides the perfect base for your individual cranberry cream cheese crescent bites.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

3. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sweet cranberry sauce, powdered sugar, and fragrant vanilla extract.
4. Mix thoroughly with a whisk or rubber spatula until the mixture is perfectly smooth and evenly combined. Ensure there are no cream cheese lumps for a silky-smooth bite.

Step 3: Fill and Roll

5. Take about 1 teaspoon of the creamy cranberry mixture and spread it evenly onto the wide end of each crescent dough triangle. Don’t overfill, as it might ooze out during baking.
6. Sprinkle the chopped pecans generously over the cream cheese filling on each triangle. The nuts will add a lovely crunch.
7. Starting from the wide end, carefully roll up each triangle towards the point. Shape them into neat crescents, ensuring the filling stays tucked inside.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

8. 8. Arrange the rolled crescent bites on your prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each for even cooking.
   9. Brush the tops of each crescent bite with the melted butter. This step is key for achieving that beautiful golden-brown crust and extra rich flavor.

8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crescent rolls are puffed up and have turned a glorious golden brown. Keep a close eye on them to prevent over-browning. If your oven has hot spots, rotate the pan halfway through.
9. Let them cool slightly on the baking sheet before serving. The filling will be hot, and cooling allows it to set a bit for easier handling.

CHECK OUT: Cinnamon-Sugar Pizza made with Crescent Rolls – Another fantastic way to use crescent dough for a sweet treat!

Tips for Success

Elevate your Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites from good to extraordinary with these expert tips:

• Soften Cream Cheese Properly: Room temperature cream cheese is crucial for a smooth, lump-free filling.
• Don’t Overfill: A teaspoon of filling is plenty; too much will cause it to leak out.
• Seal the Edges: Gently press the dough ends to seal the filling inside before baking.
• Even Brushing: Ensure an even coat of melted butter for a uniform golden crust.
• Watch Your Oven: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on the color to prevent burning, especially towards the end of baking.

Variations & Substitutions

Get creative with your Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites! These variations cater to different tastes and dietary needs:

• Nut-Free: Omit the pecans or substitute with a sprinkle of rolled oats for texture.
• Different Fruit Spreads: Try apricot preserves, raspberry jam, or even orange marmalade in place of cranberry sauce.
• Citrus Zest Boost: Add a pinch of orange or lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture for extra brightness.
• Sweet Glaze: Drizzle with a simple powdered sugar glaze (powdered sugar + milk/juice) after cooling.
• Cream Cheese Alternative: For a slightly lighter option, a neufchâtel cheese can be used, ensuring it’s softened.

Serving Suggestions

These Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites are incredibly versatile! Here are some ideas for how to serve them:

• Breakfast or Brunch: Serve alongside fresh fruit, yogurt, and a warm cup of coffee or herbal tea.
• Holiday Appetizer/Dessert: A festive addition to any holiday spread, easy for guests to grab and enjoy.
• Afternoon Snack: A delightful treat with a glass of sparkling cider or a homemade lemonade.
• Sweet Platter: Arrange with other small pastries or cookies for a lovely dessert assortment.

Health Benefits of Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites

While these Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites are definitely a treat, they offer some notable points:

• Energy Boost: Carbohydrates from the crescent dough provide quick energy.
• Protein Power: Cream cheese contributes a good amount of protein, aiding satiety.
• Healthy Fats: Pecans offer healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants.
• Cranberry Goodness: Cranberries are known for their antioxidant properties.

Storage & Reheating

Want to enjoy your Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites later? Here’s how to store and reheat them:

• Storage: Store cooled cranberry cream cheese crescent bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Unbaked bites can be frozen on a baking sheet, then transferred to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few minutes to the bake time. Baked bites can also be frozen, then thawed and reheated.
• Reheating: Warm in a preheated oven (300°F/150°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to maintain the crispy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites

Got questions? We’ve got answers to help you master these delicious bites!

Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can mix the cream cheese filling up to 2 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

What if I don’t have fresh cranberries?

This recipe uses cranberry sauce, which is readily available canned. If you have fresh cranberries, you’d need to cook them down into a sauce first.

Can I use puff pastry instead of crescent rolls?

Yes, puff pastry would work, but the texture will be different – flakier and less doughy. Adjust baking time as needed for puff pastry.

Are these good served cold?

While best warm, these cranberry cream cheese crescent bites are still quite enjoyable at room temperature or even slightly chilled, making them great for lunchboxes or picnics.

Can I add other spices to the filling?

Certainly! A pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a tiny dash of orange zest would complement the cranberry beautifully.

More Delicious Dishes

Looking for more easy and delightful recipes to add to your repertoire? Explore these fantastic options:

• Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Muffins – Perfect for fall flavors and another great use of cream cheese.
• Cream Cheese Caramel Apple Dip – A crowd-pleasing dip that combines creamy richness with sweet fruit.
• No-Bake Cranberry Oatmeal Bites – An easy, healthy-ish snack bursting with cranberry goodness.

Conclusion

These Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites are truly a revelation – simple to make, yet incredibly satisfying and delicious. Whether it’s for a quick breakfast, a festive snack, or a delightful dessert, they are sure to bring smiles. We hope you enjoy baking and sharing them as much as we do! Follow us on Facebook and Pinterest.

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