Easy Christmas Party Appetizer - Pastry Wrapped Cream Cheese Roll

If you are throwing a party or helping to prepare food and appetizers for a Christmas party , then this recipe is for you. The last thing any of us want or need in the midst of the holiday season is more work to do! Party preparations can make you frantic. This Christmas, try to make some simpler and easier recipes for your party appetizers. This recipe is for a warm and delicious cheese ball. The cheese ball can be served with crackers, fruit or vegetables. It is simple and quick to make and can be reheated if needed.

Many different flavors can be added to the cream cheese to give you a change. Dill weed, jalapeño peppers, nuts or anything that combines well with cream cheese. I have used flaked salmon at one point and also added shredded cheddar at another time. Be creative with your flavor profile or just use plain cream cheese for a rich spread that brings out the flavors in anything you place it on. This is a great addition to any appetizer spread at any party. It is a great addition to a buffet or potluck party as well. We love to serve this on Christmas at our pre Christmas dinner spread or on Christmas Eve. I have also taken this recipe to office parties, church potlucks and friends' houses at numerous times over the years.

1 (8 ounce) can refrigerated crescent roll dough

1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese (warmed to room temperature)

1 egg, beaten

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly grease a cookie sheet.

Unroll the crescent roll dough on a lightly floured surface and press the seams together to make one large rectangle. Place the block of cream cheese in the center of the dough. Bring the sides of the dough up around the cheese block and seal it with your fingers to completely enclose the cheese. Place the dough wrapped cheese seam side down on your cookie sheet. Brush the top with beaten egg.

Bake at 350 degrees F for approximately 15 - 20 minutes or until the dough is cooked and golden brown. Serve warm with crackers and fresh vegetables. You can also serve this with apple slices. A great suggestion is to place the cheese roll in the center of a serving platter and surround it with many different dipping and spreading items. Place a small cheese spreader or knife next to the cheese roll. You can have this cheese roll prepared in advance and only have to bake it right before it is needed.