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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 festive, easy-to-make appetizer featuring a creamy, tangy cream cheese filling combined with the sweet-tart flavor of dried cranberries, all wrapped in flaky crescent roll dough. Perfect for holiday gatherings or any occasion, these bite-sized treats bring a delicious blend of flavors and a charming presentation with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 tube store-bought crescent roll dough (approx. 8 oz)
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/3 cup dried cranberries
  • 1–2 tablespoons sugar or honey
  • Optional: 1 teaspoon orange zest or 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Optional Variations

  • 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (for nutty crunch)
  • 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary or thyme, finely chopped (for herbal twist)
  • Substitute dried cherries or blueberries for cranberries
  • Gluten-free crescent dough for gluten-free option
  • A pinch of ground nutmeg (for added warmth)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the filling: Blend softened cream cheese with dried cranberries and sugar or honey until smooth and the cranberries are evenly distributed.
  2. Unroll and separate the crescent dough: Carefully unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into individual triangles following the package instructions.
  3. Fill and roll the crescents: Spoon a small dollop of the cream cheese mixture onto the wider end of each crescent triangle, then roll gently from the wide end to the narrow end, sealing the filling inside.
  4. Bake until golden: Arrange the rolled bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until the dough is golden and flaky.
  5. Cool and serve: Let the bites cool slightly on a wire rack before serving to allow the filling to set and avoid a hot, runny center.

Notes

  • Use room temperature cream cheese for easier mixing and a smoother filling.
  • Do not overfill to prevent leaking and maintain dough integrity.
  • Rotate the baking sheet halfway through baking for even browning.
  • Allow bites to cool slightly before serving for best texture.
  • If using fresh cranberries, cook them briefly with sugar to soften and reduce tartness before mixing.

Nutrition

Keywords: cranberry appetizer, cream cheese bites, crescent roll snacks, holiday appetizers, finger food, easy appetizers, festive snacks

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