Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites

Name: Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 24 bites
Ingredients: 1 can refrigerated crescent dough; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup cranberry sauce; 1/4 cup sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 egg (for egg wash); 1 tbsp water

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

Delight your guests this holiday season with these easy-to-make Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites. Flaky crescent dough is filled with a creamy mixture of tangy cranberry sauce and rich cream cheese, creating a perfect sweet-tart flavor combination that’s great as an appetizer or festive treat. These bite-sized delights are sure to impress and become a holiday favorite at your Thanksgiving gathering.

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2025-10-18T13:33:26.828Z

A Perfect Holiday Appetizer

Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites are the ultimate appetizer to elevate your holiday gatherings. Their unique flavor profile combines creamy, rich cream cheese with the tangy sweetness of cranberry sauce, making every bite a delightful experience. These bites not only taste delicious but also present beautifully, enhancing your table’s festive appearance.

Since they are easy to prepare and can be made in small portions, they’re perfect for serving at parties where guests can enjoy them while mingling. Their flaky texture provides a satisfying crunch that complements the smooth filling, ensuring they will be a hit with everyone at your celebration.

Versatile and Customizable

One of the most wonderful aspects of these bite-sized treats is their versatility. While the classic combination of cranberry and cream cheese is a holiday favorite, you can easily customize the filling. Consider adding chopped nuts for an extra crunch or incorporating spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, seasonal twist.

You can also experiment with different types of sauces or jams. For instance, swapping cranberry for raspberry or blueberry sauce can offer a new and delightful flavor experience, making it easy to tailor the bites to suit your personal taste or seasonal themes.

Perfect for Any Occasion

While these crescent bites are particularly festive during Thanksgiving and Christmas, they can be enjoyed year-round for any special occasion. Whether it’s a birthday party, a potluck, or even a casual family dinner, these treats can always be a crowd-pleaser. Their bite-sized nature allows guests to savor them without feeling overly full, making them an ideal addition to any menu.

Additionally, they can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer, allowing you to prepare ahead and reduce stress on busy days. Just bake them fresh before your event, and you’ll have a delicious appetizer ready to impress your guests.

Ingredients

For the Bites

1 can refrigerated crescent dough
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup cranberry sauce
1/4 cup sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 egg (for egg wash)
1 tbsp water

Enjoy these bites as a festive treat!

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Open the can of crescent dough and unroll it on a lightly floured surface.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cranberry sauce, sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.

Assemble the Bites

Cut the crescent dough into triangles. Place a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture at the wide end of each triangle and roll it up.

Bake

Place the rolled bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Beat the egg with water and brush it over the bites. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.

Serve

Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy these festive bites warm!

Perfect for holiday gatherings!

Tips for the Best Results

To ensure your Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites turn out perfectly, be sure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing. This will help create a smooth filling that spreads easily without any lumps. If you're short on time, you can microwave the cream cheese for about 10-15 seconds, but be careful not to melt it.

When rolling the bites, make sure not to overfill them. A spoonful of filling at the wide end of the triangle is just enough; overfilling can lead to messy leaks during baking. Additionally, sealing the edges well will help shape each bite and keep the filling contained.

Storage and Reheating

If you have any leftovers (which is rare, as they’re so delicious), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. This will help restore their flaky crust and fresh flavors.

For long-term storage, these bites can be frozen before baking. Simply assemble them, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.

Serving Suggestions

These Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites pair wonderfully with an array of beverages. Serve them alongside sparkling cider, holiday cocktails, or even a rich red wine to enhance their flavors. For a more casual gathering, offer a selection of dips, such as sweet chili sauce or a creamy ranch dressing, which can complement the sweet and savory bites.

For a festive presentation, consider garnishing your platter with fresh herbs, like rosemary or mint, or even some cranberry sprigs. This small touch can elevate the appearance of your appetizer display and make it look extra special for your holiday gatherings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the bites a few hours in advance, then bake them just before serving.

→ What can I substitute for cranberry sauce?

You can use any fruit preserves or jams of your choice.