Imagine biting into a golden, flaky crescent roll, oozing with creamy cheese and packed with flavorful spinach. Sounds like heaven, right? That’s the magic of cheesy spinach crescents, the perfect snack or appetizer for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a quick family snack, or simply indulging yourself, these crescents are guaranteed to impress. And the best part? They’re incredibly easy to make with just a few ingredients and minimal prep time.
Why You’ll Love Cheesy Spinach Crescents
- Flaky and Buttery: The Pillsbury Crescents® bake up perfectly golden and buttery every time.
- Creamy Filling: The combination of Neufchatel cheese and mozzarella creates a gooey, cheesy interior.
- Nutritious Spinach: Packed with spinach, these crescents are a sneaky way to add some greens to your diet.
- Quick and Easy: With store-bought dough and a simple filling, these crescents are ready in under 30 minutes.
- Versatile: Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a side dish.
Ingredients for Cheesy Spinach Crescents
Main Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Pillsbury Crescents® | 2 tubes |
Neufchatel cheese, room temperature | 8 oz |
Shredded mozzarella cheese | 1½ cups |
Chopped spinach | 2 cups |
Egg | 1 |
Water | 1 tbsp |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly coat it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Filling
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the Neufchatel cheese, shredded mozzarella, and chopped spinach.
- Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Prepare the Egg Wash
- In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and 1 tablespoon of water.
- Set the egg wash aside; it will be used to give the crescents a golden, glossy finish.
4. Assemble the Crescents
- Open the Pillsbury Crescents® and separate the dough into individual triangles.
- Spoon about 1–2 tablespoons of the spinach and cheese mixture onto the wide end of each triangle.
- Roll each triangle tightly from the wide end to the tip, ensuring the filling is enclosed.
- Place the assembled crescents seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Apply the Egg Wash
- Use a pastry brush to apply a thin layer of the egg wash to the top of each crescent.
- This will help the crescents achieve a shiny, golden finish.
6. Bake
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the crescents are puffed up and golden brown.
7. Cool and Serve
- Remove the crescents from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutritional Information (Per Crescent)
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | ~180 |
Protein | 6g |
Fat | 10g |
Carbohydrates | 14g |
Fiber | 1g |
Sodium | 280mg |
Why These Crescents Are Perfect for Any Occasion
Cheesy spinach crescents are versatile enough to fit any event or craving. Here’s why they’re so popular:
- Party Favorite: These crescents are always a hit at gatherings, offering a blend of indulgent and wholesome flavors.
- Kid-Approved: The cheesy goodness hides the spinach, making it a sneaky way to get kids to eat their greens.
- Snack-Time Savior: They’re quick to whip up when hunger strikes.
- Meal Add-On: Serve them as a side dish with soups, salads, or pasta for a complete meal.
Tips for Making Perfect Cheesy Spinach Crescents
- Use Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach works best for a vibrant flavor, but frozen spinach (thawed and drained) is a convenient alternative.
- Seal the Edges: Pinch the edges of the dough lightly to prevent the filling from oozing out during baking.
- Customize the Cheese: Swap mozzarella for cheddar, Parmesan, or a cheese blend for a different flavor profile.
- Add Seasoning: Sprinkle a pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, or red pepper flakes into the filling for extra zest.
- Batch Bake: Double the recipe and freeze unbaked crescents for later use.
Serving Suggestions
- Dips: Serve these crescents with marinara, ranch, or a creamy spinach dip for added flavor.
- Appetizer Spread: Pair with a charcuterie board or a veggie platter for a well-rounded appetizer table.
- Main Dish Companion: Serve alongside hearty soups like tomato basil or creamy mushroom.
Storage and Reheating
How to Store
- Refrigeration: Store leftover crescents in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze unbaked crescents on a tray, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
How to Reheat
- Oven: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes to maintain their crispness.
- Microwave: Warm in the microwave for 10–15 seconds, but note that the crescents may lose some of their flaky texture.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of dough?
Yes! Crescent dough is convenient, but puff pastry or phyllo dough can work as substitutes.
2. Can I make these crescents vegetarian-friendly?
They already are! Just ensure all ingredients, like the cheese, are labeled vegetarian if needed.
3. Can I add more vegetables to the filling?
Absolutely! Finely chopped mushrooms, bell peppers, or artichoke hearts would make great additions.
4. Can I make these crescents ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the crescents, refrigerate them on a baking sheet, and bake them fresh when needed.
5. How can I make the crescents crispier?
Bake them on the middle rack of the oven and brush a second layer of egg wash halfway through baking.
6. Are these crescents gluten-free?
Unfortunately, standard crescent dough is not gluten-free. However, you can use a gluten-free dough alternative.
Conclusion
Cheesy spinach crescents are the ultimate flaky, cheesy delight that’s perfect for every occasion. With their buttery layers, creamy filling, and vibrant spinach, they’re a snack or appetizer you’ll come back to time and time again. Whether you’re entertaining guests, satisfying a craving, or sneaking in some extra greens, these crescents have got you covered. Ready to make your kitchen smell like heaven? Get baking today! me**
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Cheesy Spinach Crescents
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 16 crescents 1x
Description
Cheesy Spinach Crescents are a flaky, cheesy delight that combines buttery crescent rolls with a creamy spinach and cheese filling. Whether you’re hosting guests or looking for a quick snack, these easy-to-make treats are sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
- 2 tubes of Pillsbury Crescents®
- 8 oz Neufchatel cheese (room temperature)
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups chopped spinach
- 1 egg
- 1 tbsp water
Instructions
-
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
-
Prepare the Filling: In a medium mixing bowl, combine Neufchatel cheese, mozzarella cheese, and chopped spinach. Stir until well mixed.
-
Make the Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to create an egg wash.
-
Assemble the Crescents: Open the Pillsbury Crescents® and separate the dough into triangles. Spoon 1–2 tablespoons of the spinach and cheese filling onto the wide end of each triangle. Roll the dough tightly from the wide end to the tip, ensuring the filling is enclosed. Place each crescent seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
-
Brush with Egg Wash: Use a pastry brush to lightly coat the top of each crescent with the egg wash for a golden finish.
-
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the crescents are puffed up and golden brown.
-
Cool and Serve: Allow the crescents to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm with your favorite dipping sauce!
Notes
- Substitute Cheese: You can use cheddar, Parmesan, or a cheese blend for added flavor.
- Add Seasoning: Enhance the filling with garlic powder, onion powder, or red pepper flakes.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American-inspired