Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents are a simple yet indulgent treat perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a quick snack. They combine the savory flavor of sausage with the creamy richness of cream cheese, all wrapped in a soft, buttery crescent roll. This recipe is both easy to make and impressive enough to serve to family and friends on a busy morning or a relaxed weekend gathering.
To start, gather your ingredients. You will need one can of refrigerated crescent roll dough, which is commonly available in most grocery stores. For the filling, you will need about 8 ounces of cream cheese, softened to room temperature, and 1 pound of breakfast sausage. You can use either mild or spicy sausage depending on your preference. Additionally, you may want a small amount of shredded cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, to sprinkle over the filling for extra flavor. Some people like to add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder to enhance the savory taste, but this is optional.
Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. While the oven warms, prepare the sausage. Place it in a skillet over medium heat and cook until browned, breaking it apart into small crumbles as it cooks. This usually takes about 7 to 10 minutes. Once cooked, transfer the sausage to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess grease. This step ensures that your crescents will remain flaky and not soggy from the fat.
Next, prepare the cream cheese filling. In a medium bowl, use a fork or a hand mixer to soften the cream cheese until it is smooth and creamy. If you like, you can mix in a small amount of shredded cheese or seasonings to add depth to the flavor. Once the filling is well combined, set it aside.
Now it’s time to assemble the crescents. Unroll the crescent dough onto a clean surface and separate it into individual triangles along the perforated lines. Take a small spoonful of the cream cheese mixture and place it near the wide end of each triangle. Then, sprinkle a few pieces of cooked sausage on top of the cream cheese. Be careful not to overfill, as this can make rolling the dough difficult and may cause the filling to leak during baking.
Starting at the wide end, roll each triangle toward the point, encasing the filling within the dough. Place the rolled crescents on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a lightly greased pan. If desired, you can brush the tops with a little beaten egg or milk to help them brown beautifully in the oven. This also gives them a nice glossy finish once baked.
Bake the crescents in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and fully cooked through. Keep an eye on them as oven times can vary slightly depending on your oven and the size of the crescents. Once baked, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents are best enjoyed warm, right out of the oven, when the dough is soft and the filling is creamy. They pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea for breakfast, or with fresh fruit and a glass of juice for a more complete brunch spread. They are also great for serving at casual gatherings, as guests can easily pick them up with their hands and enjoy without the need for utensils.
If you want to make these crescents ahead of time, you can prepare them and refrigerate them unbaked for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply bake them from the refrigerator, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time if needed. They also freeze well if you want to make a larger batch for later. Place the unbaked crescents on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. When ready to bake, allow them to thaw slightly before baking as directed.
For a variation, you can experiment with different types of sausage, such as turkey or chicken sausage, or add chopped vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition. You can also sprinkle a little extra shredded cheese on top before baking for a golden, cheesy crust. The versatility of this recipe makes it perfect for adapting to your personal taste and whatever ingredients you have on hand.
In addition to being delicious, these crescents are a crowd-pleasing option that comes together quickly. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, they are a convenient solution for busy mornings or unexpected guests. The combination of flaky dough, savory sausage, and creamy cheese is comforting and satisfying, making it a favorite for both kids and adults alike.
Whether served for a holiday brunch, a weekend breakfast, or as a tasty snack, Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents are a delightful addition to any menu. Their golden-brown exterior, soft interior, and savory filling make them irresistible. With this easy recipe, you can enjoy homemade, bakery-style crescents in the comfort of your own kitchen.