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Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites Recipe

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4.3 from 2 reviews

These Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites are a simple, festive appetizer featuring flaky crescent roll dough filled with creamy sweetened cream cheese and tangy whole-berry cranberry sauce. Perfect for holiday gatherings, brunch, or any time you want a quick and impressive appetizer.

  • Total Time: 22 minutes
  • Yield: 24 bites

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 tube refrigerated crescent roll dough (8-count sheet if available)
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 2–3 tbsp whole-berry cranberry sauce (homemade or canned)

Optional Ingredients

  • 1 tsp orange zest
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1–2 tsp honey or maple syrup (for a glossy finish)
  • 1 tbsp chopped pecans or pistachios (optional topping)
  • Fresh thyme leaves or rosemary, finely chopped (optional garnish)
  • Nonstick spray or parchment, for the pan

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly spraying with nonstick spray.
  2. Prepare the filling: In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with a pinch of salt and optional orange zest. Mix well until smooth and creamy.
  3. Unroll the dough: Carefully unroll the crescent roll dough sheet and separate it into 8 large triangles along the perforations.
  4. Assemble the bites: Spread about 1 tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture onto the wide end of each crescent triangle. Add 1/2 to 1 tablespoon of cranberry sauce on top of the cream cheese, then gently roll up the dough from the wide end to the pointed end, forming a crescent-shaped bite.
  5. Arrange on baking sheet: Place each rolled crescent bite seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops lightly with honey or maple syrup if using, to achieve a glossy finish.
  6. Add toppings: Sprinkle chopped pecans or pistachios on top for added texture and flavor, and garnish with finely chopped fresh thyme or rosemary if desired.
  7. Bake the bites: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes or until the crescent rolls are puffed and golden brown.
  8. Cool and serve: Allow the bites to cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a serving platter. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

  • Softening the cream cheese ahead of time makes it easier to spread.
  • Use whole-berry cranberry sauce for texture and a burst of flavor.
  • Orange zest adds a fragrant citrus note but can be omitted if unavailable.
  • Honey or maple syrup brushed on top gives a beautiful shiny finish and a hint of sweetness.
  • Chopped nuts add crunch and can be substituted with your favorite nuts.
  • Fresh herbs are optional but add a lovely aroma and festive look.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat gently before serving.
  • Author: admin
  • Prep Time: 7 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://avascooking.com/cranberry-cream-cheese-crescent-bites-recipe/