King Cake Bites Recipe

Introduction

King Cake Bites are a delightful, bite-sized treat inspired by the classic Mardi Gras dessert. These soft, creamy pastries are filled with a sweet cinnamon cream cheese mixture and topped with colorful sanding sugars for a festive touch.

Ingredients

• 2 (8 ounce) cans refrigerated crescent roll dough
• 1 (8 ounce) block cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 teaspoons milk
• 3 tablespoons sanding sugar (purple, yellow, and green)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. Step 2: In the bowl of your stand mixer, add the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar. Mix well with the paddle attachment until creamy.
3. Step 3: Unroll the first can of crescent roll dough.
4. Step 4: Tear the dough into four rectangles, then crimp the perforated lines down the middle by pinching with your fingers.
5. Step 5: Sprinkle each rectangle with about 1/8 teaspoon of ground cinnamon.
6. Step 6: Spoon half of the cream cheese mixture down the middle of the first rectangle.
7. Step 7: Fold the rectangle over the filling, first folding one third over, then fold the other side like an envelope.
8. Step 8: Turn the roll over and crimp the edges with your fingers to seal.
9. Step 9: Using a sharp knife, cut the roll into three pieces. Crimp any open edges, then place the bites seam side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
10. Step 10: Repeat these steps with the remaining crescent dough, using another baking sheet if needed.
11. Step 11: Bake in the preheated oven for 13–15 minutes, until golden brown.
12. Step 12: Remove from oven and allow to cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes.
13. Step 13: While cooling, mix the powdered sugar and milk in a small bowl until a thick glaze forms.
14. Step 14: Spoon the glaze over each King Cake bite, then sprinkle with the purple, yellow, and green sanding sugars.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a little vanilla extract to the cream cheese filling.
• You can substitute colored sanding sugar with regular granulated sugar tinted with colored food gel for a homemade touch.
• Try adding chopped pecans or cinnamon chips inside the filling for added texture.

Storage

Store King Cake Bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat briefly in a warm oven to restore softness before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use homemade crescent dough instead of canned?

Yes, homemade crescent dough works well if you prefer making dough from scratch. Just roll it out and shape as described in the instructions.

How do I keep the glaze from sliding off?

Make sure to let the bites cool completely before glazing, and use a thick glaze so it adheres better. If needed, chill the bites briefly after glazing to set the topping.