Looking for an easy, delicious dessert? These Cherry Pie Crescent Bites are your answer! With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up this tasty treat in no time. I’ll guide you through every step, from assembling the bites to baking them to golden perfection. Whether it’s for a family gathering or a cozy night in, these bites will impress. Let’s dive into the fun of making this delightful dessert!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: These cherry pie crescent bites can be prepared in just 10 minutes, making them a perfect last-minute dessert for any occasion.
- Deliciously Versatile: The combination of cherry pie filling and almond extract gives these bites a delightful flavor, but you can easily substitute with other fruit fillings to suit your taste.
- Golden Brown Perfection: The crescent dough bakes to a beautiful golden brown, providing a crunchy exterior that perfectly contrasts the sweet cherry filling inside.
- Impressive Presentation: Dusting with powdered sugar and serving with whipped cream elevates these bites, making them look as good as they taste, perfect for guests.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 can of crescent roll dough
– 1 cup cherry pie filling
– 1 egg (for egg wash)
Optional Ingredients
– Whipped cream for serving
– 2 tablespoons powdered sugar for dusting
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon almond extract
The main ingredients for cherry pie crescent bites make this dessert simple and fun. The crescent roll dough gives a flaky texture, while the cherry pie filling adds sweet and tart flavors. The egg wash is key to getting that beautiful golden color when baked.
You can easily elevate your bites with optional ingredients. A dollop of whipped cream adds a creamy touch when serving. A dusting of powdered sugar gives a sweet finish. Adding vanilla and almond extracts enhances the flavor of the cherry filling. This combination creates a delightful taste that everyone will love.
Using these ingredients, you can whip up a tasty dessert in no time. Each bite is sweet, flaky, and full of cherry goodness. You’ll want to make these again and again!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is key for a perfect bake. Next, grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easy.
Now, let’s prepare the cherry filling. In a medium bowl, mix one cup of cherry pie filling with one tablespoon of cornstarch. Add one teaspoon of vanilla extract and one teaspoon of almond extract. Stir well until everything is combined. The cornstarch will help thicken the filling as it bakes.
Assembling the Crescent Bites
Next, open the can of crescent roll dough. Unroll the dough onto a clean surface. You will see the dough is cut into triangles. Carefully separate each triangle along the perforated edges.
On the wide end of each triangle, spoon about one tablespoon of the cherry filling. Be careful not to overfill to avoid a mess. Starting from the wide end, roll the dough towards the pointed end. Pinch the edges to seal them tight. This keeps the filling inside as they bake.
Arrange the rolled crescent bites on the baking sheet. Make sure to leave space between each one for even baking.
Baking Process
In a small bowl, crack one egg and beat it to make an egg wash. Using a pastry brush, lightly brush the egg wash over the top of each crescent bite. This gives them a nice golden color when baked.
Now, place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes. Keep an eye on them until they turn a lovely golden brown. Once done, take them out and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few moments. Just before serving, dust them with powdered sugar for a sweet finish. Enjoy your warm cherry pie crescent bites!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Your Crescent Bites
To make your cherry pie crescent bites perfect, I have a few tips. First, avoid overfilling the dough. Use just about one tablespoon of cherry filling for each bite. If you add too much, the filling may spill out during baking. This can make a mess and ruin the look of your bites.
Next, ensure the edges are well sealed. After you fill each crescent triangle, roll it up tightly. Pinch the edges together firmly to keep the filling inside. If the edges are not sealed, the filling might leak out. Sealing them well is key to a tasty bite.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving, think about presentation. A sprinkle of freshly grated lemon zest can add a nice pop of color. This also gives a bright flavor that pairs well with the sweet cherry filling.
I always recommend serving these bites warm. A dollop of whipped cream on the side makes it even better. The cream adds a creamy texture that balances the sweet tartness of the cherries. Enjoy these bites at your next gathering or as a sweet treat for yourself!
Pro Tips
- Use Cold Dough: For flakier crescent bites, ensure the crescent roll dough is kept cold until ready to use. This helps achieve that perfect flaky texture.
- Experiment with Fillings: While cherry pie filling is delicious, try using other fruit fillings like blueberry or apple for a delightful twist on this recipe.
- Seal Effectively: Make sure to pinch the edges of the crescent dough tightly after rolling to prevent the filling from leaking during baking.
- Serve Fresh: For the best taste, serve the crescent bites warm right after baking. They are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven!
Variations
Flavor Swaps
You can change the flavor of your crescent bites easily. Instead of cherry pie filling, try blueberry or apple pie filling. Each option brings a new taste that will surprise your family and friends. Mixing in cream cheese with the filling makes it rich and creamy. Just blend cream cheese with your chosen pie filling for a tasty twist.
Dietary Considerations
If you need gluten-free options, look for gluten-free crescent dough. Many brands offer this, so you can still enjoy these bites. For vegan choices, skip the egg wash. You can brush the tops with almond milk instead. Use a fruit filling that does not have any animal products. These simple swaps make the recipe fit many diets.
Storage Info
Storage Guidelines
To keep your leftover cherry pie crescent bites fresh, store them in an airtight container. Place a piece of parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking. Keep them in the fridge for up to three days. For reheating, use a toaster oven or regular oven. Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for 5-7 minutes. This keeps the bites warm and crispy.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze these bites either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble them as usual. Then, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. After that, transfer them to a freezer bag. For baking later, no need to thaw. Bake them for an extra 2-3 minutes longer than the original time.
If you freeze baked bites, let them cool completely first. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This will restore their flaky texture and warm cherry filling.
FAQs
Common Questions
Can I use homemade cherry pie filling?
Yes, you can use homemade cherry pie filling. Just ensure it’s thick enough. Too runny filling can make a mess. Add cornstarch to help thicken it. This will keep your bites neat and tasty.
How do I prevent the filling from leaking during baking?
To prevent leaks, do not overfill each crescent. Use about 1 tablespoon of filling. After rolling, pinch the edges tightly. This seals the filling inside and helps avoid spills.
Cooking and Baking Tips
What’s the ideal bake time for perfect crescents?
Bake the crescent bites for 12-15 minutes at 375°F (190°C). You want them golden brown. Keep an eye on them towards the end to avoid burning.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them ahead. Assemble the bites and store them in the fridge. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve. They taste best warm and fresh!
This blog post covers everything you need to make cherry pie crescent bites. You learned about the main ingredients, the steps to prepare, and tips for success. Remember to experiment with different flavors and follow storage tips to keep them fresh. Make these bites your own with easy swaps and enjoy them at any gathering. You can impress your friends with this tasty treat. Now, get cooking and enjoy every delicious bit
