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Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites

Easy and festive bites of flaky crescent dough filled with creamy cranberry goodness, perfect for any holiday gathering.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 32 minutes
Servings: 12 bites
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American, Holiday
Calories: 150
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Dough and Filling Ingredients
  • 1–2 cans Crescent roll dough Store-bought for convenience.
  • 8 ounces Cream cheese, softened Full-fat gives best texture.
  • 3/4 cup Cranberry sauce or chopped fresh cranberries Fresh for brightness or canned for ease.
  • 1–2 tablespoons Honey or granulated sugar Adjust to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Lemon zest Optional, adds freshness.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla extract Rounds out the filling flavor.
  • 1 each Egg, beaten For an egg wash.
  • 2 tablespoons Chopped pecans or walnuts Optional, adds crunch and nutty depth.
  • 1/2 cup Powdered sugar Optional for dusting or a simple glaze.

Method
 

Preheat and Prepare
  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or use a lightly greased mini muffin tin.
Make the Filling
  1. In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add honey (or sugar), vanilla, and lemon zest. Fold in cranberry sauce or chopped cranberries until evenly distributed. If using nuts, stir them in now.
Assemble the Bites
  1. Unroll the crescent dough and separate into triangles. For each triangle, place a teaspoon to a tablespoon of filling near the wider end. Roll up toward the point, tucking the filling in. For mini bites, cut triangles into smaller strips or use a square of dough for each scoop of filling.
Egg Wash and Bake
  1. Place rolls on the sheet, brush lightly with beaten egg for shine, and bake 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. If using a mini muffin tin, baking may take 12-15 minutes. Watch closely to avoid over-browning.
Finish and Serve
  1. Let cool 3-5 minutes, then transfer to a rack. Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle glaze while warm if desired.

Notes

For best results, keep cream cheese softened and don’t overfill the bites. Serve alongside dips or as part of a party platter.