Baked Cream Cheese Appetizer
Cream cheese wrapped in flaky crescent dough, infused with fresh dill, creates a savory appetizer perfect for parties or casual gatherings. Baked until golden, these warm bites are ideal for serving with crackers and enjoyed by cheese lovers and entertaining hosts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Unroll the crescent dough on a lightly floured surface and press the seams together to form a 12 x 4-inch rectangle.
- Sprinkle and gently press the minced dill weed onto the top of the cream cheese.
- Place the cream cheese, dill weed side down, in the center of the dough.
- Bring up the sides of the dough snugly around the cheese, pinching to seal.
- Place the sealed dough seam side down on a lightly greased baking sheet.
- Brush the top of the dough with the beaten egg yolk.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 to 22 minutes until golden brown.
- Garnish if desired and serve warm with crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider adding chopped green onions or garlic powder to the cream cheese mixture. If fresh dill isn't available, substitute with 1 teaspoon of dried dill weed. Ensure the crescent rolls are well-sealed to prevent leaking during baking. For a creamier texture, let the cream cheese soften at room temperature before using. This appetizer pairs beautifully with Red Pepper Vegetable Dip.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delightful appetizer warm, ideally alongside an assortment of crackers, fresh vegetables, or even toasted bread. It makes a great addition to any party platter. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a light salad or soup. This dish is perfect for entertaining and can be complemented with a side of Hot Fudge Topping for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover baked cream cheese appetizer in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the dough soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Cream Cheese Appetizer contains roughly 65 calories, with 2g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 5g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of cream cheese?
Yes, you can substitute cream cheese with Neufchâtel cheese for a lighter option, or even goat cheese for a tangy flavor. Just ensure the cheese is spreadable for easy assembly.
What can I use instead of crescent rolls?
If you don't have crescent rolls, you can use puff pastry or even phyllo dough. Just adjust the baking time accordingly, as puff pastry may require a slightly longer baking time to achieve a golden brown color.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the appetizer up to the point of baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for several hours or overnight. Bake it just before serving for a warm, fresh appetizer.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).