Crescent Roll Cream Cheese Pepper Jelly Bites

These Crescent Roll Cream Cheese Pepper Jelly Bites combine creamy, tangy cheese with sweet-and-spicy pepper jelly, all wrapped in buttery, golden crescent rolls. They’re irresistibly flaky and flavorful perfect as a quick appetizer, party bite, or snack that always disappears fast. With minimal prep and just a handful of ingredients, they deliver big flavor in every bite.

Ingredients

• 1 can (8 oz) crescent roll dough
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup pepper jelly
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven: Set oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the dough: Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into individual triangles.
3. Mix the filling: In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, pepper jelly, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.
4. Assemble: Place 1 tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture at the wide end of each crescent triangle. Roll from the wide end to the tip, enclosing the filling.
5. Bake: Arrange the filled crescents on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Serve: Let cool slightly, then garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving warm.

Variation

• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or use hot pepper jelly for an extra burst of heat.
• Cheesy twist: Mix in shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese for a richer, gooier filling.
• Mini appetizer version: Cut each triangle in half before filling to make bite-sized party portions.

Cooking Notes

• Make sure your cream cheese is softened this ensures a smooth, easily spreadable filling.
• Avoid overfilling the crescents; a tablespoon is plenty to prevent leakage while baking.
• Serve warm for the best texture and flavor the combination of melty cheese and sweet-spicy jelly is unbeatable right out of the oven.

Serving Suggestions

• Party favorite: Serve on a platter with a small bowl of extra pepper jelly for dipping.
• Holiday appetizer: These bites look festive and pair beautifully with sparkling drinks or wine.
• Brunch addition: Perfect alongside fruit platters or savory quiches for a balanced spread.

Tips

• Seal edges firmly: Pinch the dough gently to keep the filling from escaping during baking.
• Use quality pepper jelly: The flavor of the jelly makes a big difference opt for one that’s sweet, spicy, and tangy.
• Reheat easily: Warm leftovers in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5 minutes to revive their crispness.

Prep Time:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 150 kcal
• Protein: 3 g
• Sodium: 210 mg

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make these ahead of time?
   Yes! Assemble the rolls, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
2. Can I freeze them?
   Absolutely. Bake, cool, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven until warm and crisp.
3. Can I use puff pastry instead of crescent dough?
   Yes puff pastry gives a flakier, more delicate texture but may require a few extra minutes of baking.
4. What can I substitute for pepper jelly?
   Try apricot preserves mixed with a bit of hot sauce for a sweet-heat alternative.

Conclusion

These Crescent Roll Cream Cheese Pepper Jelly Bites are a delightful mix of creamy, savory, and sweet with just a hint of spice. Quick to prepare and beautiful on any table, they’re a go-to recipe for entertaining or satisfying your craving for something buttery and flavorful. Simple, elegant, and always a crowd-pleaser!

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