Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites

Highlighted under: Treats & Confections

Delightful and easy-to-make appetizers perfect for any gathering.

Emma

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-05T18:14:22.248Z

Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites are a delightful combination of tangy cranberry sauce and rich cream cheese, all wrapped in flaky crescent dough. These bites are perfect for holiday gatherings, parties, or as a simple yet elegant appetizer.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  • Sweet and tangy flavor that satisfies your taste buds
  • Crispy, flaky texture that complements the creamy filling
  • Quick and easy to prepare, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings

Perfect for Any Occasion

Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites are a versatile appetizer that shines at any gathering, whether it’s a family holiday dinner, a casual get-together, or a festive party. Their delightful combination of flavors and textures makes them a crowd-pleaser, appealing to both sweet and savory lovers alike. Plus, they add a touch of elegance to your appetizer spread without requiring hours of preparation.

These bites can be served warm or at room temperature, making them an excellent choice for potlucks or events where guests can help themselves. The beautiful presentation, enhanced by the fresh cranberries and mint garnish, elevates even the simplest of gatherings, impressing your guests and leaving them wanting more.

Easy Preparation Steps

One of the best features of these Crescent Bites is how quick and simple they are to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal cooking time, you can whip up a delicious appetizer in under 30 minutes. Simply unroll the crescent dough, mix the creamy filling, and assemble. This makes them an ideal choice for last-minute invitations or spontaneous gatherings.

The straightforward steps allow even novice cooks to create a gourmet-like dish without stress. By using pre-made crescent roll dough, you cut down on prep time significantly, allowing you to focus on enjoying the company of your friends and family rather than being stuck in the kitchen.

Customizing Your Bites

While this recipe is absolutely delightful as is, feel free to get creative and customize your Crescent Bites! You can experiment by adding chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the cream cheese mixture for an extra crunch. Alternatively, try incorporating spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to introduce new flavor dimensions that complement the cranberry sauce beautifully.

For a more savory twist, consider swapping out the cranberry sauce for a fruit chutney or a savory spread. This adaptability means that you can cater to various tastes and dietary preferences, making these bites suitable for any gathering, regardless of the crowd.

Ingredients

Ingredients

For the Bites

  • 1 can (8 oz) crescent roll dough
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • Fresh cranberries and mint for garnish (optional)

Instructions

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.

Mix the Filling

In a bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, cranberry sauce, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Assemble the Bites

Place a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture on the wide end of each crescent triangle. Roll them up tightly, starting from the wide end.

Brush with Egg Wash

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

Bake

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

Serve

Remove from the oven, let them cool slightly, and garnish with fresh cranberries and mint if desired. Serve warm.

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftover Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites, storing them is easy! Allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just be aware that the texture may change slightly after refrigeration, but they will still taste delicious.

To enjoy your leftovers, simply reheat them in the oven at a low temperature, around 300°F (150°C), for about 5-10 minutes. This will help restore some of their flaky texture, making them almost as good as fresh!

Pairing Suggestions

These Crescent Bites pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages, making them a great addition to any appetizer table. For an easy pairing, serve them alongside a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing sparkling water infused with citrus. The acidity in these drinks complements the sweet and tangy flavors of the cranberry and cream cheese filling.

If you’re hosting a more casual gathering, consider serving them with a selection of cocktails. A classic gin and tonic or a fruity spritzer would enhance the festive vibe while balancing the richness of the bites. Regardless of your choice, these appetizers are sure to be a hit!

Secondary image

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use homemade cranberry sauce?

Yes, homemade cranberry sauce works wonderfully in this recipe!

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I freeze these bites?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled bites before baking. Just bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

→ What can I serve with these bites?

They pair well with a variety of dips or can be served alongside a cheese platter.

Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites

Delightful and easy-to-make appetizers perfect for any gathering.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration12 minutes
Overall Time27 minutes

Created by: Emma

Recipe Type: Treats & Confections

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 12 bites

What You'll Need

For the Bites

  1. 1 can (8 oz) crescent roll dough
  2. 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  3. 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
  4. 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  5. 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  6. 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  7. Fresh cranberries and mint for garnish (optional)

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 02

Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into triangles.

Step 03

In a bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, cranberry sauce, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 04

Place a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture on the wide end of each crescent triangle. Roll them up tightly, starting from the wide end.

Step 05

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

Step 06

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

Step 07

Remove from the oven, let them cool slightly, and garnish with fresh cranberries and mint if desired. Serve warm.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 150 kcal
  • Total Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg
  • Sodium: 210mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 17g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 5g
  • Protein: 3g