Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites are a delightful combo of flavors and textures. The tartness of the cranberry sauce perfectly balances the creamy, sweet filling made from cream cheese and sugar. Plus, they are easy to make and look impressive, making them perfect for holiday gatherings, brunches, or casual snacking. You’ll love how quick and simple these bites are to whip up, and your guests will rave about them!
Simple Steps to Craft Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites
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
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Grease or line a mini muffin tin to prevent sticking.
- In a mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Unroll the crescent dough and cut each triangle in half. Press each piece into the muffin cups to form little cups.
- Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the cream cheese filling into each dough cup, then add 1 teaspoon of cranberry sauce on top.
- If you like, sprinkle chopped pecans or orange zest over the top for added flavor and crunch.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 11–13 minutes or until the tops are golden brown. Let them cool slightly before serving.
Serving Your Delicious Treats
Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites are best enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Serve them as a festive appetizer, a fun party snack, or a sweet treat for brunch. You can pair them with hot drinks, like coffee or tea, for a cozy experience. For a well-rounded platter, include seasonal fruits or a charcuterie board alongside these bites.
Keeping Your Bites Fresh
To store your cranberry bites, allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. You can keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy them warm later, simply reheat them in the oven for a few minutes.
Handy Tips for Making Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
- Feel free to experiment with different toppings, like crushed walnuts or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
- For a festive touch, use a cookie cutter to make fun shapes with the rolled-out dough before pressing them into the muffin tin.
Fun Variations to Consider
If you’re feeling adventurous, try substituting the cranberry sauce with other flavors, like raspberry or strawberry jam. You can also mix in spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the cream cheese filling for a little extra warmth.
Nutritional Information
Per Bite (approximately):
- Calories: 80
- Total Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 2g
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Family-Friendly Serving Ideas
These bites are perfect for a family gathering. Serve them alongside a fruit salad or a platter of mini sandwiches. Kids will love the fun flavors, and they make an excellent addition to a holiday dinner table.
Pairing Suggestions for Enjoyment
Consider serving these bites with a light salad or a bowl of soup for a well-balanced meal. They also pair beautifully with sparkling beverages or a festive punch for a special touch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and dough cups a few hours in advance. Just assemble and bake them right before serving.
Can I freeze these bites?
Yes, you can freeze them after baking. Let them cool completely, then wrap them tightly and store in the freezer for up to a month. Reheat in the oven before serving.
What if I don’t have a mini muffin tin?
You can use a regular muffin tin, but the baking time may need to be adjusted. Just watch for that golden-brown color!
Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites
Ingredients
Dough and Filling
- 1 can crescent roll dough (8-count)
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened) Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup whole berry cranberry sauce Can be substituted with other flavors like raspberry or strawberry jam.
Toppings (optional)
- to taste chopped pecans For added flavor and crunch.
- to taste orange zest For added flavor and crunch.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Grease or line a mini muffin tin to prevent sticking.
- In a mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Unroll the crescent dough and cut each triangle in half. Press each piece into the muffin cups to form little cups.
- Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the cream cheese filling into each dough cup, then add 1 teaspoon of cranberry sauce on top.
- If you like, sprinkle chopped pecans or orange zest over the top.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 11–13 minutes or until the tops are golden brown.
- Let them cool slightly before serving.
