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Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites

Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites
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Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites are a quick and festive appetizer that blends creamy, tangy cream cheese with tart cranberries wrapped in flaky crescent dough. Perfect for holiday gatherings, these easy-to-make bite-sized treats balance sweet and savory flavors, making them a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Crescent Bites

  • 1 package (8 oz) crescent roll dough
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans), optional

Optional Variations & Garnishes

  • 1 teaspoon fresh orange zest (for citrus twist)
  • Almond butter (to mix with cream cheese for nutty flavor)
  • Gluten-free crescent dough (for dietary needs)
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh cranberries (instead of dried)
  • Honey or maple syrup drizzle (for topping before baking)
  • Powdered sugar or white chocolate drizzle (for garnish)
  • Fresh rosemary sprigs or extra dried cranberries (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Filling: In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy. Stir in the dried cranberries and, if using, the chopped nuts to add texture and flavor.
  2. Roll Out Crescent Dough: Unroll the crescent dough onto a clean surface. Gently separate it into individual triangles without tearing the perforations.
  3. Fill the Dough Triangles: Spoon a small amount of the cream cheese mixture near the wide edge of each triangle, being careful to not overfill to avoid leakage during baking.
  4. Roll and Shape: Starting at the wide end, roll each crescent towards the point. Gently tuck in the edges to seal the filling inside and shape bite-sized crescents.
  5. Bake Until Golden: Place the bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 12-15 minutes or until the dough is golden brown and puffed.
  6. Cool and Serve: Allow the bites to cool slightly before serving so the filling firms up, making them easy to eat as an appetizer.

Notes

  • Chill your cream cheese slightly to prevent lumps and create a smooth filling.
  • Do not overfill the dough triangles to avoid filling oozing out during baking.
  • Seal the edges firmly by pinching the dough to keep the filling inside.
  • Use parchment paper on the baking sheet to prevent sticking and simplify cleanup.
  • Serve these bites warm for the best flavor and flaky texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: cranberry, cream cheese, crescent bites, holiday appetizer, festive snack, bite-sized, quick recipe, easy appetizer, gluten-free option

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