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 rolls; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought); 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional); 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash); 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Flour & Frosting Recipes

These delightful bites combine creamy cheese and tart cranberries, all wrapped in flaky crescent dough. Perfect for appetizers or a festive treat!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-05T17:47:20.806Z

These Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites are a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The tartness of cranberries beautifully complements the creamy richness of the cheese, all encased in a perfectly baked crescent dough. Ideal for holiday gatherings or casual get-togethers, these bites are sure to impress your guests!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors
Easy to prepare and bake, making them a great last-minute appetizer
Flaky and buttery texture that everyone loves

      

Perfect for Any Occasion

Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites are versatile enough to shine at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, a casual get-together, or a family dinner, these bites will impress your guests. Their delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors makes them an ideal appetizer that appeals to a wide range of palates.

These bites also make a perfect addition to a brunch spread or a potluck. Their bite-sized nature allows guests to enjoy them as finger foods while mingling, adding a touch of elegance to any event. Plus, they can be made ahead of time and baked just before serving, making your hosting duties easier.

Tips for the Best Crescent Bites

To ensure your Crescent Bites are as delicious as possible, start with high-quality ingredients. Use fresh cream cheese and homemade cranberry sauce if you can. The freshness of these ingredients enhances the overall flavor and makes a noticeable difference in the final product.

Don’t skip the egg wash! Brushing the tops of the bites with a beaten egg before baking not only adds a beautiful golden color but also gives them a shiny, attractive finish. If you're looking for an extra flavor boost, consider sprinkling a little coarse sea salt on top before baking.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Although they are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, you can still enjoy them later. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, until warmed through and crispy again.

These bites can also be frozen before baking. Simply assemble them, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to bake, no need to thaw—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time for perfectly baked bites.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites:

Ingredients

1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent rolls
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Once you have your ingredients ready, it's time to assemble your bites!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Prepare the Crescent Rolls

Unroll the crescent rolls and separate them into 8 triangles.

Mix the Filling

In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cranberry sauce, and chopped pecans (if using). Mix until well blended.

Assemble the Bites

Place a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture at the wide end of each crescent triangle. Roll them up from the wide end to the point.

Brush with Egg Wash

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

Bake

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

Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, then garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites!

Serving Suggestions

Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites pair wonderfully with a variety of dips. Consider serving them with a homemade honey mustard or a tangy balsamic glaze to elevate the taste experience. You can also serve them alongside a fresh salad or a charcuterie board for a complete spread.

For a festive touch, garnish the bites with additional chopped pecans or a sprinkle of fresh rosemary. This not only enhances their visual appeal but also adds an extra layer of flavor that your guests will love.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with the filling! You can substitute the cranberry sauce with other fruit preserves like raspberry or apricot for a different flavor profile. Mixing in herbs like chives or dill can also add a fresh twist that complements the cream cheese beautifully.

If you want to make them a bit heartier, add some cooked and crumbled sausage or shredded chicken to the filling. This will transform these bites into a more filling appetizer that’s perfect for dinner parties or more substantial gatherings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these bites ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling and roll the bites ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator and bake just before serving.

→ What can I substitute for cranberry sauce?

You can use raspberry jam or a mixture of chopped fruits for a different flavor.

→ Are these bites gluten-free?

No, the recipe uses regular crescent rolls. However, you can find gluten-free crescent roll options in stores.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven before serving.