Ingredients
Filling
- 1 (8-oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 2 tsp cinnamon
Dough
- 2 (8-oz) cans refrigerated crescent rolls
- Approximately 2 tsp cinnamon (for sprinkling on dough)
Glaze and Topping
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 Tbsp milk
- Yellow sugar
- Green sugar
- Purple sugar
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350ºF to prepare for baking the King Cake Bites.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, 1 cup powdered sugar, and lemon juice using a mixer until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Prepare Dough Rectangles: Separate the crescent dough into 8 rectangles by sealing the original seams. Sprinkle about ¼ teaspoon of cinnamon evenly on each rectangle to add flavor.
- Assemble Bites: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly down the middle of each rectangle. Then, fold each rectangle lengthwise into thirds, bringing the long edges up to completely enclose the filling. Cut each rolled rectangle into 4 square pieces. Place these squares seam-side down on a baking sheet to keep them sealed during baking.
- Bake: Bake the prepared squares in the preheated oven for 13 to 15 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Once baked, allow them to cool slightly before glazing.
- Prepare Glaze and Decorate: Mix the remaining 1 cup powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons of milk until smooth. Spread this glaze evenly over the slightly cooled King Cake Bites. Finally, generously sprinkle the top with yellow, green, and purple colored sugars to recreate the traditional festive King Cake colors.
Notes
- You can substitute lemon juice with vanilla extract if preferred for a different flavor.
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Press the dough seams firmly to prevent the filling from leaking during baking.
- Colored sugars can be found at most baking supply stores or online for an authentic festive appearance.
- Serve bites warm or at room temperature for best taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American