Caramel Crescent Bites are an irresistible sweet snack that combines the warm, buttery goodness of crescent rolls with the rich, gooey delight of caramel. This easy-to-make dessert is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth, whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging in a late-night snack. With only a few ingredients and minimal preparation, these treats are both delicious and convenient.
Ingredients
- 1 can of crescent rolls (refrigerated, 8 ounces)
- 1 bag of Werther’s Original Caramels (or any caramel candies you prefer, 14 ounces)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for coating)
Instructions
1. Preheat Your Oven:
- Set Temperature:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your oven is at the right temperature for baking, which helps achieve the perfect texture and color for your Caramel Crescent Bites. - Prepare Baking Sheet:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent the crescent rolls from sticking. This also makes for easier cleanup after baking.
2. Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- Mix Ingredients:
In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Stir the two together until well blended. This mixture will coat the outside of your crescent bites, adding a sweet and spicy kick.
3. Prepare the Crescent Rolls:
- Unroll the Dough:
Open the can of crescent rolls and carefully unroll the dough onto a clean surface. The dough is usually divided into triangles, which makes it easy to wrap around the caramel. - Separate the Dough:
Gently separate the dough into individual triangles if it is not already pre-sliced. This step is crucial for wrapping each caramel individually.
4. Wrap the Caramels:
- Place Caramel on Dough:
Take one caramel and place it in the center of each crescent roll triangle. If you’re using larger caramels or different types, adjust the size of your dough pieces accordingly. - Wrap and Seal:
Fold the edges of the dough over the caramel and roll it up to form a ball or a crescent shape. Ensure that the caramel is completely enclosed by the dough to prevent it from leaking out during baking.
5. Coat with Cinnamon Sugar:
- Roll in Mixture:
Roll each dough ball in the cinnamon sugar mixture until it is fully coated. The sugar and cinnamon will create a sweet, spiced crust on the outside of your bites, enhancing the overall flavor.
6. Bake:
- Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Place the coated dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them a few inches apart to allow for spreading. This will help ensure that they bake evenly and do not stick together. - Bake in Preheated Oven:
Bake the Caramel Crescent Bites in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes. The exact time may vary depending on your oven and the size of your dough balls. Look for a golden brown color on the crescent rolls as an indicator that they are done.
7. Cool and Serve:
- Cool Slightly:
Allow the Caramel Crescent Bites to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set and makes them easier to handle. - Serve:
Enjoy the bites warm or at room temperature. They are delightful on their own, but you can also serve them with a side of caramel or chocolate dipping sauce for an extra treat. Pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream also makes for a delicious dessert.
Tips and Variations
- Caramel Alternatives:
Feel free to experiment with different types of caramel candies, such as salted caramels or chocolate-covered caramels. Adjust the baking time slightly if the filling melts differently. - Make Ahead:
Prepare the Caramel Crescent Bites ahead of time and freeze them before baking. Place the uncooked bites on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a zip-top bag or airtight container and store in the freezer. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. - Extra Toppings:
For added flavor, sprinkle a bit of sea salt on top of the bites before baking. This can enhance the caramel flavor and provide a nice contrast to the sweetness. - Serving Suggestions:
Serve these bites with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful snack. They also make great party treats or a sweet addition to brunch.
Why You’ll Love Caramel Crescent Bites
Caramel Crescent Bites are a simple yet delectable treat that combines the rich, buttery flavor of crescent rolls with the sweet, gooey goodness of caramel. The cinnamon sugar coating adds a delightful crunch and extra sweetness, making these bites irresistible. Whether you’re looking for a quick dessert, a fun treat for a party, or just a delicious snack, these bites are sure to satisfy. Enjoy every warm, gooey, and cinnamon-sweet bite!