Air Fryer Pepper Jelly Crescent Bites
These Air Fryer Pepper Jelly Crescent Bites are the ultimate quick and delicious appetizer. A warm, flaky crescent roll wraps around a creamy and sweet-spicy filling, making them perfect for parties or snacking! Light, airy, and bursting with flavor, these bite-sized treats are a hit at any gathering.
Why You’ll Love These Bites
These crescent bites are not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can easily modify the filling by swapping out the pepper jelly for your favorite jams or trying different types of cheese to suit your taste. They are a true crowd-pleaser, combining creamy, sweet, and spicy flavors all wrapped in flaky dough. Plus, they cook quickly in the air fryer, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make your own Air Fryer Pepper Jelly Crescent Bites:
- 1 package (8 oz) crescent roll dough
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup pepper jelly
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Nonstick cooking spray
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat while you prepare the bites.
- Step 2: Prepare the Dough: Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into individual triangles.
- Step 3: Add the Filling: Place 1 teaspoon of softened cream cheese near the wide end of each triangle. Top the cream cheese with 1/2 teaspoon of pepper jelly. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese, if desired, for an extra cheesy bite.
- Step 4: Fold and Seal: Gently fold the narrow end of the triangle over the filling. Pinch the edges together to fully seal the filling inside the dough.
- Step 5: Air Fry the Bites: Lightly coat the air fryer basket with nonstick cooking spray. Arrange the bites in the basket, leaving space between them for even cooking. Air fry for 4-5 minutes, or until the crescent rolls are puffed and golden brown.
- Step 6: Cool and Serve: Allow the bites to cool slightly before serving to avoid burning from the hot filling. Serve warm as an appetizer, snack, or party treat.
Pro Tips for Making Air Fryer Pepper Jelly Crescent Bites
- Ensure that the cream cheese is softened to make it easier to spread.
- Experiment with different jellies or preserves for unique flavor combinations.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; this helps ensure even cooking.
- For added flavor, consider mixing herbs or spices into the cream cheese.
- Let the bites cool for a minute or two before serving to allow the filling to set slightly.
FAQ
1. Can I use other types of cheese instead of cream cheese?
Yes, you can substitute cream cheese with other cheeses like ricotta or goat cheese for different flavors. Just make sure they are spreadable.
2. Is it necessary to use pepper jelly?
Not at all! You can replace pepper jelly with your favorite fruit preserves or jams for a sweeter bite.
3. Can I prepare these bites in advance?
Yes! You can assemble the bites ahead of time, refrigerate them, and then air fry them when you’re ready to serve.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore the crispiness.
5. Can I freeze the uncooked bites?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled, uncooked bites. When ready to eat, cook them from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the air fryer cooking time.
Conclusion
These Air Fryer Pepper Jelly Crescent Bites are a fantastic addition to your appetizer repertoire. Their quick preparation and extraordinary blend of flavors will surely impress your guests, making them ideal for any occasion. Whip them up for your next gathering and watch them disappear from the platter!