Crescent Rounds with Olives and Cheese Recipe

Name: Crescent Rounds with Olives and Cheese
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 8
Ingredients: 4 ounces whipped cream cheese spread; 2 tablespoons chopped Kalamata olives; 2 tablespoons chopped roasted red pepper; 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 (8 ounce) package refrigerated crescent dough sheet (such as Pillsbury®)

Cook Time: 15 minutes

This easy-to-make recipe combines the creamy richness of whipped cream cheese with the savory tang of Kalamata olives and roasted red peppers. Perfect as an appetizer or a savory snack, these crescent rolls are sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Ingredients

4 ounces whipped cream cheese spread
2 tablespoons chopped Kalamata olives
2 tablespoons chopped roasted red pepper
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1 (8 ounce) package refrigerated crescent roll dough (such as Pillsbury)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375F (190C).
In a medium bowl, combine the whipped cream cheese, chopped Kalamata olives, roasted red peppers, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Mix well until smooth and creamy.
Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into 2 long rectangles. Press the perforations between the triangles to seal the dough into solid sheets.
Evenly spread the prepared cheese mixture over each rectangle of dough, ensuring an even layer across the entire surface.
Starting from one short end, tightly roll up each rectangle of dough. Pinch the edges to seal the rolls.
Cut each roll into 4 slices, creating a total of 8 pieces. Arrange the slices cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a non-stick mat.
Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 13 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.

Nutrition Facts

Per serving (1 roll):

Nutrient	Amount	% Daily Value*
Calories	156
Total Fat	11g	14%
Saturated Fat	6g	29%
Cholesterol	31mg	10%
Sodium	173mg	8%
Total Carbohydrate	12g	5%
Dietary Fiber	1g	3%
Total Sugars	3g
Protein	3g	6%
Vitamin C	4mg	4%
Calcium	26mg	2%
Iron	1mg	3%
Potassium	54mg	1%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Origin and History

The crescent roll, a staple in many households, has its roots in Austrian baking traditions, dating back to the 17th century. Legend has it that the shape of the crescent roll was inspired by the Ottoman Empire's crescent-shaped flag, after Austria's victory in the Battle of Vienna in 1683. While crescent rolls became popular in Europe, particularly in France and Germany, they gained widespread recognition in the United States during the 20th century, thanks to mass production by brands like Pillsbury. The crescent rounds with olives and cheese recipe is a modern twist on this classic, combining the buttery, flaky dough with the savory flavors of cheese, olives, and Italian herbs for a quick and delightful appetizer.

Regional Variations

This dish can vary depending on the region, with different types of olives and cheeses being used based on local preferences. For example, Mediterranean variations might use feta cheese and green olives for a tangier flavor profile, while in Southern Italy, sun-dried tomatoes could be included in place of roasted red peppers. The key is the versatility of crescent dough, which allows for endless combinations of fillings, making it adaptable to different tastes and dietary needs.

Distinguishing Features from Similar Dishes

While the crescent rounds with olives and cheese share similarities with other baked pastry appetizers, such as pinwheels or cheese sticks, its unique feature lies in the use of crescent roll dough. The dough's flakiness and butteriness contrast with the creamy cheese and briny olives, creating a balanced and satisfying bite. Unlike typical pinwheel recipes that use puff pastry or regular bread dough, crescent rolls provide a distinct texture that elevates the flavor profile, offering a perfect combination of softness on the inside and crispiness on the outside.

Where Its Typically Served

Crescent rounds with olives and cheese are often served as appetizers at casual gatherings, dinner parties, or holiday meals. They are perfect for accompanying cocktails or as a side dish for larger meals. Due to their quick prep time and delightful taste, these rounds are popular at potlucks and buffets. Their versatility also makes them suitable for a range of occasions, from family dinners to festive events. Whether served hot or at room temperature, they never fail to impress guests with their savory appeal.

Interesting Facts

The crescent shape of the roll is historically tied to the defeat of the Ottoman Turks at the Battle of Vienna in 1683, symbolizing a victory for Christian Europe.
The crescent roll gained popularity in the U.S. in the 1950s when Pillsbury began mass-producing them, making them a household favorite.
Olives have been a part of Mediterranean cuisine for thousands of years and were a key food for the ancient Greeks and Romans. They are known for their health benefits, including being rich in antioxidants and healthy fats.
The combination of cream cheese, olives, and roasted peppers offers a blend of creamy, salty, and slightly tangy flavors, making this dish a flavor-packed snack.

FAQ about Crescent Rounds with Olives and Cheese Recipe

These crescent rounds are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes until heated through.

Yes, you can prepare the rolls ahead of time. Once you've assembled the rolls but before baking, cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply bake them as directed.

Yes, you can freeze the assembled unbaked crescent rounds. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Bake directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 15–18 minutes.

You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or shredded mozzarella. You can also add other ingredients like diced sun-dried tomatoes, fresh herbs, or even a little crumbled bacon for extra flavor.

These crescent rounds pair well with a variety of dishes. Consider serving them with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or a simple soup. They're also great as an appetizer alongside a glass of wine.

Yes, you can use puff pastry or biscuit dough as an alternative to crescent roll dough. Each type of dough will create a slightly different texture, but they'll all work well for this recipe.

This recipe contains dairy and gluten. If you're looking for dairy-free or gluten-free alternatives, you can use plant-based cream cheese and a gluten-free crescent dough alternative.

The crescent rounds are done when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. You can also insert a toothpick into the center of one to check if it comes out clean.

Yes, you can omit the olives or substitute them with another ingredient like chopped spinach, artichokes, or sundried tomatoes if you prefer a different flavor profile.