Why make this recipe

Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites are a perfect combination of sweet and tangy flavors. They are easy to make and great for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to simple snacks. The creamy filling and fruity topping make these bites irresistible.

How to make 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.
In a bowl, mix the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until the mixture is smooth.
Unroll the crescent roll dough and cut each triangle in half. Press the dough pieces into the muffin cups.
Spoon in 1 teaspoon of the cream cheese filling, followed by 1 teaspoon of cranberry sauce.
If you like, you can top them with chopped nuts or orange zest.
Bake for 11 to 13 minutes or until they are golden brown. Allow them to cool slightly before serving.

How to serve Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites

Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites are best served warm. You can enjoy them as a snack, appetizer, or dessert. They look great on a platter and are easy for guests to grab and enjoy.

How to store Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to three days. You can reheat them in the oven for a few minutes before serving to regain some crispiness.

Tips to make Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites

Make sure the cream cheese is softened for easier mixing.
Experiment with different toppings like walnuts or shredded coconut for added texture.
You can prepare the filling ahead of time and just assemble the bites just before baking.

variation

You can change the flavor by using different types of fruit preserves, such as raspberry or strawberry, instead of cranberry sauce. You can also mix in a bit of lemon juice or zest to the cream cheese filling for a refreshing twist.

FAQs

1. Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?
Yes, low-fat cream cheese works just fine, but it may change the texture slightly.

2. Can I freeze the Crescent Bites?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked bites. Just assemble them, freeze on a baking sheet, and then transfer to an airtight container. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.

3. How can I make them less sweet?
You can reduce the amount of powdered sugar in the cream cheese mixture or use less cranberry sauce for a less sweet flavor.