Print

King Cake Bites Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 98 reviews

King Cake Bites are delightful bite-sized pastries inspired by the traditional Mardi Gras King Cake. Made with flaky crescent roll dough filled with a creamy cinnamon-sugar cream cheese mixture, these treats are baked to golden perfection and topped with a sweet glaze and colorful sanding sugars in vibrant purple, yellow, and green hues. Perfect for festive celebrations or a fun, flavorful snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough

  • 2 (8 Ounce) Cans Refrigerated Crescent Roll Dough

Filling

  • 1 (8 Ounce) Block Cream Cheese (softened)
  • 1/2 Cup Granulated Sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon

Glaze and Topping

  • 1 Cup Powdered Sugar
  • 2 teaspoons Milk
  • 3 Tablespoons Sanding Sugar (Purple, Yellow and Green)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F to prepare for baking the King Cake Bites.
  2. Prepare Filling: In the bowl of your stand mixer, combine the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar. Mix well using the paddle attachment until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
  3. Unroll Dough: Open the first can of crescent roll dough and unroll it onto a clean surface.
  4. Divide Dough: Tear the dough into four rectangles, then crimp the perforated lines down the middle by pinching them with your fingers to seal.
  5. Add Cinnamon: Lightly sprinkle each rectangle with about 1/8 teaspoon of ground cinnamon for flavor.
  6. Add Filling: Spoon half of the cream cheese mixture down the center of the first rectangle.
  7. Fold Dough: Fold one side of the rectangle over the filling about one-third of the way, then fold the other side over, forming an envelope shape.
  8. Seal Edges: Turn the folded roll over and crimp the edges firmly with your fingers to seal the filling inside.
  9. Slice Roll: Using a sharp knife, cut the roll into three equal pieces. Crimp any open edges on each piece and place them seam side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  10. Repeat Process: Repeat these steps with the remaining crescent dough and cream cheese filling, using a second baking sheet if necessary.
  11. Bake: Place the baking sheet(s) in the preheated oven and bake the King Cake Bites for 13-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
  12. Cool: Remove from oven and allow the bites to cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes.
  13. Make Glaze: While the bites cool, mix the powdered sugar and milk in a small bowl until smooth and thick.
  14. Glaze and Decorate: Spoon the glaze over each King Cake Bite, then immediately sprinkle with the purple, yellow, and green sanding sugars to complete the festive look.

Notes

  • Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth filling.
  • Use parchment paper on baking sheets to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
  • Adjust sanding sugar colors or omit for a subtler look if preferred.
  • Serve the King Cake Bites slightly warm or at room temperature for best flavor.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 4 days.

Keywords: King Cake Bites, Crescent Roll Dessert, Mardi Gras Treats, Cream Cheese Filled Pastry, Festive Bites

Find it online: https://messykitchenmagic.com/king-cake-bites-recipe/