Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites

Name: Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Yield: 24 bites
Ingredients: 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup cranberry sauce; 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional); 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash); 1 tablespoon sugar (for sprinkling)

Highlighted under: Family Baking Recipes

Indulge in the delightful combination of cream cheese and tart cranberries with these easy-to-make crescent bites.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-05T16:07:20.820Z

These Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a delightful appetizer any time of year. The creamy filling perfectly complements the flaky crescent dough, creating a bite-sized treat that everyone will love.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A delightful balance of tart and creamy flavors
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for last-minute guests
Great for holiday parties and celebrations

      

Crescent Rolls: A Versatile Base

Crescent roll dough is a beloved staple in many kitchens, known for its flaky, buttery texture that serves as a perfect base for countless recipes. Whether you’re preparing appetizers, main dishes, or desserts, this versatile dough can elevate your culinary creations. The unique shape of crescent rolls makes them not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them a fantastic option for entertaining guests.

In addition to being easy to handle, crescent roll dough can be filled with a variety of ingredients, ranging from savory to sweet. This flexibility allows you to get creative in the kitchen, experimenting with flavors and textures. Pair it with cream cheese and cranberry, as in this recipe, or switch things up with meats, cheeses, or vegetables for a delightful twist.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, making them ideal for any occasion. Whether it's a festive holiday gathering, a casual get-together with friends, or a potluck dinner, these bites will impress your guests with their rich flavors and elegant presentation. They can be served warm or at room temperature, allowing for flexibility in serving.

These crescent bites are not only tasty but also incredibly easy to prepare, which is a significant advantage when hosting. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a batch in no time. Guests will appreciate the effort you put into making something special without you spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Bites

1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup cranberry sauce
1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
1 tablespoon sugar (for sprinkling)

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for easier mixing.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Prepare the Dough

Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into triangles.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, cranberry sauce, and chopped pecans until well combined.

Assemble the Bites

Place a tablespoon of the filling on the wide end of each crescent triangle. Roll the dough towards the point to form a bite-sized crescent.

Brush and Sprinkle

Place the bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with the beaten egg and sprinkle with sugar.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.

Let the bites cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

Tips for the Best Crescent Bites

To ensure your Crescent Bites turn out perfectly, make sure to roll the dough gently but firmly around the filling. This helps seal in the creamy mixture while baking, creating a deliciously gooey center. Additionally, don’t hesitate to experiment with the filling. You can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the cream cheese mixture to elevate the flavors even further.

Using fresh cranberry sauce instead of canned can enhance the flavor profile. If you have leftover cranberry sauce from a holiday meal, this recipe is a fantastic way to use it up. You can also swap out pecans for walnuts or omit nuts entirely for a nut-free option.

Storage and Reheating

If you have any leftovers, store the Crescent Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through. This helps to retain their flakiness while ensuring the filling is hot and delicious.

For longer storage, you can freeze the unbaked crescent bites. Assemble them as directed, then place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer bag. When you're ready to enjoy them, bake them directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time for a fresh, hot treat.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought cranberry sauce?

Yes, store-bought cranberry sauce works perfectly for this recipe.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze these bites?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked bites. Just freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 2 months.

→ What can I substitute for cream cheese?

You can use mascarpone cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.