Name: Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-491152H31M29S
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tube (about 8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 2 tbsp powdered sugar; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup whole berry cranberry sauce or homemade cranberry compote; Optional: 2 tbsp chopped pecans or 1 tsp grated orange zest for topping

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These Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites are one of my favorite festive appetizers or sweet snacks during the holidays. With flaky crescent dough, creamy sweetened cream cheese, and tangy cranberry sauce, they’re the perfect combination of rich, tart, and buttery in every bite. I love how easy they are to make with just a few ingredients and how beautiful they look on any holiday platter.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s incredibly quick to throw together but always tastes and looks like I put in much more effort. The creamy filling pairs so well with the tart cranberry topping, and the crescent dough bakes up golden and flaky. They’re perfect as a party appetizer, an afternoon treat, or even a simple dessert. I can make a whole batch in under 30 minutes, and they disappear just as fast. Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Refrigerated crescent roll dough
Cream cheese, softened
Powdered sugar
Vanilla extract
Whole berry cranberry sauce or homemade cranberry compote
Optional: chopped pecans or orange zest for topping

Directions

I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a mini muffin pan.
I unroll the crescent dough and cut it into squares or press it into individual mini muffin cups.
In a small bowl, I mix the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth and creamy.
I spoon a bit of the cream cheese mixture into each crescent cup.
I top each with a small spoonful of cranberry sauce and a sprinkle of chopped pecans or orange zest if I’m using them.
I bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the crescent dough is golden brown and cooked through.
I let them cool for a few minutes before removing them from the pan and serving warm or at room temperature.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 16 bites. It takes 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to bake. Total time: approximately 25 minutes.

Variations

I add a pinch of cinnamon to the cream cheese mixture for a cozy twist.
I swap cranberry sauce for raspberry or cherry preserves for a different flavor.
I drizzle a little maple glaze or honey over the top for extra sweetness.
For a savory version, I reduce the sugar and add a pinch of salt and rosemary to the cream cheese filling.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5–7 minutes. They can also be enjoyed cold or at room temperature. Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites

FAQs

Can I use homemade cranberry sauce?

Yes, I often use leftover homemade cranberry sauce—it adds a nice personal touch and deeper flavor.

Do I need a mini muffin pan?

I prefer using one for the best shape and structure, but I can also make them on a baking sheet by folding the corners of the dough around the filling.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, I prep and fill the dough ahead and store them covered in the fridge. I bake them just before serving for the freshest texture.

Can I use reduced-fat cream cheese?

Yes, reduced-fat cream cheese works well and still gives a creamy texture without being too heavy.

Are these sweet or savory?

They’re slightly sweet with a tangy twist from the cranberry. I think they fall somewhere between dessert and appetizer, which makes them super versatile.

Conclusion

Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites are one of those simple, crowd-pleasing recipes I always turn to during the holidays. They’re flaky, creamy, tangy, and just the right amount of sweet—all wrapped up in a cute little bite. Whether I’m serving them at a holiday party or making them as a quick treat, they never fail to impress.