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A close-up shot showcases delicious Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites, perfect for holiday appetizers or festive snacking.

Irresistible Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites

These Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites are a delightful combination of tart cranberries and creamy cream cheese, all wrapped in flaky crescent dough. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy night in, they offer a harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors that are easy to make and sure to impress.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 16
Course: Appetizer, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup whole berry cranberry sauce
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of ground cinnamon optional
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • Coarse sugar or sanding sugar

Equipment

  • Medium bowl
  • Electric mixer (or whisk)
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Sharp knife
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese, cranberry sauce, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon (if using) until smooth and creamy.
  3. Unroll one can of crescent roll dough onto a lightly floured surface.
  4. If using crescent roll sheets, simply lay one out. If using triangle cut crescent rolls, pinch the seams together to form one solid sheet.
  5. Spread half of the cream cheese filling evenly over the crescent dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
  6. Gently roll up the dough tightly, starting from one end.
  7. Using a sharp knife, slice the roll into about 1-inch thick slices.
  8. Place the slices, cut-side up, onto the prepared baking sheet.
  9. Repeat steps with the second can of crescent roll dough and the remaining filling.
  10. Brush the tops of the crescent bites with the melted butter.
  11. Sprinkle generously with coarse sugar or sanding sugar.
  12. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crescent bites are golden brown and the filling is set.
  13. Let the crescent bites cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a serving platter. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Soft cream cheese is essential for a smooth filling. Adjust the amount of sugar to your preference. Avoid overfilling the dough to prevent sogginess. You can prepare these ahead of time and refrigerate them unbaked for up to 24 hours. Store leftover bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For flavor variations, add orange zest to the filling or sprinkle chopped nuts on top before baking. Drizzle with melted white chocolate after cooling for extra sweetness.