If you love the irresistible flavors of pecan pie but want a quick and delightful twist, the Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. These flaky, buttery crescent rolls are filled with a luscious mix of toasted pecans, brown sugar, and warm spices, creating bite-sized bursts of sweetness that feel indulgent without the fuss of traditional pie-making. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a special snack, this recipe brings the cozy charm of pecan pie wrapped up in golden, flaky crescents that everyone will adore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its simplicity; each ingredient plays a key role in crafting the perfect balance of texture and flavor. From the pillowy crescent dough to the rich, nutty filling, they come together effortlessly to make magic happen.
- Crescent roll dough (8 oz / 226 g): The foundation that provides flaky, buttery layers and an easy-to-roll canvas for the filling.
- Chopped toasted pecans (1 cup): Adds crunch and that classic pecan pie flavor; toasting intensifies their nuttiness.
- Brown sugar, packed (1/2 cup): Brings deep, caramel-like sweetness and moisture.
- Melted butter (1/4 cup): Ensures richness and helps bind the filling ingredients.
- Corn syrup or honey (1/4 cup): Adds sticky sweetness and smooth texture; corn syrup for classic taste or honey for a floral twist.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavor, adding warmth and depth.
- Ground cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon): Provides a subtle hint of spice that complements the pecans perfectly.
- Pinch of salt: Balances sweetness and highlights the nutty, buttery flavors.
How to Make Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Start by mixing together the brown sugar, chopped toasted pecans, melted butter, corn syrup or honey, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt in a medium bowl. Stir everything well until you have a sticky, luscious filling that’s bursting with flavor and texture. This mixture is the heart of your crescent rolls, so make sure those pecans are evenly coated.
Step 2: Unroll the Crescent Dough
Carefully unroll your pre-made crescent roll dough onto a clean, flat surface. Separate it into the individual triangular segments as marked on the package. This simple step sets you up perfectly for filling and rolling.
Step 3: Add the Filling
Place a spoonful of the pecan pie filling near the wide end of each crescent triangle. Be mindful not to overfill; leaving some room helps prevent the filling from oozing out during baking, ensuring beautiful, intact rolls.
Step 4: Roll Up the Crescent Rolls
Gently roll each crescent triangle from the wide end toward the narrow tip, wrapping the filling snugly inside. Take your time to seal the edges slightly, so your sweet treasure stays safe and cozy during baking.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange your filled rolls on it, giving each a little breathing space. Pop the tray into a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 12 to 15 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they turn puffed and a gorgeous golden brown, with a slightly caramelized sheen.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once baked, let your pecan pie crescent rolls cool for a few minutes. This cooling step allows the filling to set, making them easier to handle and more delicious to savor. Warm, gooey, and perfectly flaky is what you’re aiming for here.
How to Serve Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate these crescent rolls, try dusting them lightly with powdered sugar or drizzling a thin glaze made from powdered sugar and milk. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side can transform them into a delightful dessert worthy of any occasion.
Side Dishes
Pairing these rolls with a cup of hot coffee, chai tea, or even a rich hot chocolate makes for an indulgent snack or breakfast treat. If serving at brunch, fresh fruit or a simple green salad with citrus vinaigrette nicely balances the sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the rolls on a rustic wooden board with sprigs of fresh mint or cinnamon sticks for a charming display. For a party, serve them warm in a decorative basket lined with a cloth napkin or cut them into smaller bites for a finger-food platter that will disappear in no time.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. The crescent rolls remain tender but will lose some of their initial flakiness as they sit, so enjoy them as soon as possible.
Freezing
You can freeze unbaked crescent rolls after assembling them. Place them on a parchment-lined tray, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to one month. When ready to bake, simply thaw in the fridge overnight before baking as directed.
Reheating
To warm up leftover rolls, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 to 7 minutes. This refreshes their crispness on the outside while preserving the gooey filling inside. Avoid microwaving as it can make the dough soggy.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pecans instead of toasted?
Absolutely, but toasting pecans enhances their flavor and crunchiness. If using fresh, consider toasting them lightly in a dry pan for a few minutes until fragrant to get the best taste.
Is it possible to substitute corn syrup in the filling?
Yes, honey works wonderfully as a natural sweetener and adds a lovely floral note. Maple syrup can also be a tasty alternative, giving your rolls a unique twist.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
You can try by using vegan crescent roll dough and substituting the butter with a plant-based alternative. Keep in mind that some commercial crescent rolls contain dairy, so check labels carefully.
How do I prevent the filling from leaking during baking?
To avoid leaks, don’t overfill the rolls. Also, gently seal the edges of the dough by pinching or folding to keep the filling securely inside.
Can I add chocolate chips to the filling?
Definitely! A handful of mini chocolate chips mixed into the filling adds a gooey, rich surprise that pairs beautifully with the pecans and brown sugar.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls Recipe that makes it a standout favorite perfect for any time you crave a comforting, sweet treat without the heavy lifting of traditional baking. Whether you’re serving these golden beauties at brunch, dessert, or as a cozy snack, they’re sure to bring smiles and satisfied sighs all around. Go ahead, give this recipe a try—you’ll wonder why you didn’t make it sooner!
Print
Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls combine the flaky, buttery texture of crescent roll dough with a sweet, nutty pecan pie filling. Perfect as a dessert or a festive snack, these rolls are easy to make and bake to golden perfection, delivering a deliciously gooey and crunchy treat in every bite.
Ingredients
Crescent Rolls
- 1 pack of pre-made crescent roll dough (8 oz / 226 g)
Pecan Pie Filling
- 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup corn syrup or honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the brown sugar, chopped toasted pecans, melted butter, corn syrup or honey, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly until the filling is well combined and sticky.
- Unroll the Crescent Dough: Carefully unroll the crescent roll dough onto a clean surface. Separate it into individual triangles as indicated on the package.
- Add the Filling: Place a spoonful of the pecan pie filling near the wide end of each crescent triangle, taking care not to overfill to avoid leaks during baking.
- Roll Up the Crescent Rolls: Begin rolling each triangle from the wide end toward the narrow tip, encasing the filling securely inside.
- Bake Until Golden: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the filled rolls on it. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the rolls are puffed and golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the baked rolls to cool slightly so the filling can set, ensuring easier handling and enhanced flavor before serving.
Notes
- To toast pecans, spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until fragrant.
- Use corn syrup for a traditional flavor or honey as a natural sweetener alternative.
- Do not overfill the crescent rolls to prevent the filling from leaking during baking.
- Serve warm for best taste and texture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days; reheat gently before serving.
