Sometimes, the simplest desserts are the most satisfying. There’s a certain magic in a dish that combines minimal effort with maximum flavor—a true gem for busy days or impromptu gatherings. Enter Easy Cherry-Filled Crescents: a dessert that marries the flaky, buttery goodness of crescent rolls with a luscious cream cheese filling and the sweet tang of cherry pie filling. This recipe is a beloved favorite in my family, conjuring memories of warm, comforting treats that were always a hit at family gatherings.
I first stumbled upon this recipe during a hectic holiday season. I needed a dessert that could be whipped up quickly without sacrificing taste or presentation. As I scoured my recipe box, my eyes fell on this gem, and it didn’t disappoint. With its ease of preparation and indulgent flavors, it quickly became a go-to for holidays and special occasions. The combination of cream cheese and cherry filling is irresistible, and the buttery crescent roll topping adds just the right amount of crunch.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or someone who just enjoys a good dessert, this recipe is sure to become a cherished part of your culinary repertoire. Let’s dive into how to create these delicious Cherry-Filled Crescents.
Ingredients
1 can (8 count) crescent rolls
1 can (21 ounces) pie filling of your choice (cherry is preferred)
1/2 cup granulated sugar (for filling)
1/4 cup additional granulated sugar (for topping)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
12 ounces cream cheese (softened, usually one and a half blocks of 8 oz each)
1/2 stick unsalted butter
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your oven is at the right temperature for an even bake.
Prepare the Baking Pan: Take an 8×8-inch baking dish and grease it lightly. For a quicker cleanup, you can also line the pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil. This will help with easy removal of the dessert once it’s baked.
Step 2: Prepare the Crescent Roll Base
Arrange Crescent Rolls: Open the can of crescent rolls and carefully separate the dough into individual triangles. Place four of these triangles into the bottom of the prepared pan, stretching them out to cover the bottom entirely. Press the seams together to create a uniform base. This forms the crust layer of your dessert.
Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
Cream Cheese and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, place 12 ounces of softened cream cheese and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed until smooth and well-blended. This should take about 2-3 minutes. The result will be a creamy, sweet mixture that will add richness to your dessert.
Add Vanilla: Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. Beat again until the vanilla is fully incorporated. The vanilla adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the filling.
Spread Cream Cheese Mixture: Gently spread the cream cheese mixture over the crescent roll layer in the pan. Make sure to spread it evenly, reaching all the edges. This creamy layer acts as a delicious base that pairs perfectly with the cherry filling.
Step 4: Add the Cherry Pie Filling
Pour and Spread: Open the can of cherry pie filling and pour it over the cream cheese layer. Use a spatula to spread the filling evenly. The sweet and slightly tart cherries will provide a vibrant flavor and contrast beautifully with the cream cheese.
Step 5: Add the Top Crescent Roll Layer
Prepare the Remaining Crescent Rolls: Open the remaining crescent roll dough and place the triangles over the cherry pie filling. If you find that the dough doesn’t cover the filling completely, you can stretch the dough or place it in patches. It’s okay if it’s not perfect; the end result will still be delicious.
Melt and Pour Butter: Melt 1/2 stick of unsalted butter in a microwave-safe bowl or on the stovetop. Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top layer of crescent roll dough. The butter will give the topping a lovely, golden color and extra flavor.
Add Sugar: Sprinkle 1/4 cup of granulated sugar evenly over the melted butter. This will create a sweet, slightly crisp topping as it bakes.
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
Bake: Place the prepared pan into the preheated oven. Bake for 30 to 45 minutes. The exact time will depend on your oven and how golden you like the top to be. Start checking at the 30-minute mark; the casserole is done when the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
Cool: Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool slightly before cutting. Allow it to set for about 10-15 minutes. This helps the layers firm up a bit, making it easier to cut into squares.
Variations and Substitutions
Pie Filling Choices: Feel free to use different types of pie filling, such as apple, blueberry, or peach, to suit your taste or what you have on hand.
Cheese Variations: Swap the cream cheese for ricotta cheese or mascarpone for a different flavor profile. Ricotta will add a lighter texture, while mascarpone will make it extra rich.
Spices and Add-ins: For added flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cream cheese mixture. You can also mix in some chopped nuts or shredded coconut for extra texture.
Summary
Easy Cherry-Filled Crescents offer a delightful combination of flaky crescent roll dough, creamy cheese, and sweet cherry filling. It’s a dessert that’s incredibly easy to make yet impressive enough to serve to guests. The recipe captures the essence of comfort food with its rich, indulgent flavors while still being approachable for even novice bakers. The use of readily available ingredients and straightforward preparation makes it a go-to recipe for satisfying a sweet tooth or adding a special touch to any meal. With every bite, you’ll enjoy the perfect balance of creamy, fruity, and buttery goodness. Enjoy this dessert warm for the best experience, and savor the taste of simple pleasures done right.