Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a treat that combines all the gooey, nutty goodness of a classic pie with the convenience of handheld pastries, these Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls are your answer! Each fluffy crescent is hugged around a sweet, sticky pecan filling inspired by everyone’s favorite holiday dessert. Golden brown on the outside, caramelized and tender inside, they’re irresistibly simple and sure to become a year-round favorite whenever you want comfort in a bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how just a handful of kitchen staples come together to make something so spectacular. These ingredients are easy to find, but each one plays a starring role in the taste, texture, or gorgeous finish of your Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls.

• Pillsbury Crescent Rolls: The classic refrigerated dough makes this treat incredibly quick, giving you soft, pillowy layers that bake up tender every time.
• Chopped Pecans: These add signature crunch and that deep, earthy flavor you expect from any stellar pecan dessert.
• Granulated Sugar: Provides just the right sweetness and helps build the syrupy filling.
• Light Corn Syrup: This key ingredient ensures your filling stays glossy and gooey while baking—no dry insides here!
• Unsalted Butter, melted: A touch of richness and buttery flavor that rounds out the filling.
• Pure Vanilla Extract: For aromatic warmth and a boost of cozy, dessert-worthy complexity.
• Large Egg: Not only helps bind the filling, but also gives the rolls a plush texture and shiny finish.

How to Make Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Sheet

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a rimmed baking sheet and line it with parchment paper—this makes clean-up a breeze and keeps your Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls from sticking like glue.

Step 2: Whip Up the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, stir together the granulated sugar, light corn syrup, melted butter, vanilla extract, and the large egg until everything is smooth and blended. Be sure to set aside 2 tablespoons of this luscious mixture; you’ll use it for brushing the tops later, creating that signature pie-like glaze.

Step 3: Add the Pecans

Toss the chopped pecans into the sugar mixture and fold until every bit of pecan is thoroughly coated. The result should be glossy, sticky, and chock-full of flavor—just begging to be wrapped in crescent dough!

Step 4: Fill and Roll

Unroll your crescent dough and gently separate it into triangles directly on your parchment-lined sheet. Scoop around 2 to 3 tablespoons of pecan filling onto the wide end of each triangle. Then, starting at the wide end, roll each one towards the narrow tip, tucking in all that deliciousness as you go.

Step 5: First Bake

Slide those filled crescents into your preheated oven and let them bake for about 8 minutes. They’ll just begin to set, making them sturdy enough for the next step without losing that melt-in-your-mouth factor.

Step 6: Glaze and Finish Baking

Remove the tray and, armed with a pastry brush, lovingly paint each roll with your reserved sugar mixture. This little step ensures each roll bakes up glossy and tempting. Pop them back in the oven for an additional 5 minutes or until lightly golden brown and perfectly puffed.

Step 7: Top and Serve

Once the Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls are out of the oven, sprinkle with extra chopped pecans if the mood strikes. Let them cool just enough so you don’t burn your fingers, and then dig in!

How to Serve Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls

Garnishes

There’s something magical about a final flourish. For extra flair, dust your Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls with a bit of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce. A sprinkle of toasted pecans on top adds crunch and makes them even more photogenic!

Side Dishes

These sweet rolls are dreamy alongside a mug of coffee, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or fresh berries. If you’re serving them for brunch, a spread of seasonal fruit and savory egg dishes rounds out the table beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn dessert into a showstopper by stacking the rolls on a rustic cake stand, or arrange them in a wreath shape on a platter for holidays. For potlucks or lunchboxes, wrap each roll in parchment and tie with twine for charming, portable treats.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any extra Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Their texture stays wonderfully soft, with the filling remaining sticky-sweet.

Freezing

You absolutely can freeze these! Once cooled, wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap, then pop them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to two months, making them fantastic for prepping ahead for busy mornings or unexpected guests.

Reheating

To bring your Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls back to peak deliciousness, reheat in a 300°F oven for about 8-10 minutes. This keeps the rolls tender and revives the gooey filling—avoid the microwave, which can make the dough tough.

FAQs

Can I use homemade crescent dough instead of store-bought?

Definitely! If you love baking from scratch, your favorite homemade crescent dough will work beautifully. Just follow the recipe as written, swapping the dough step for your own version.

Can I substitute walnuts for pecans?

Yes, walnuts give a lovely earthy flavor too, though the classic taste of Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls comes from pecans. Try mixing both for a unique twist if you’re feeling adventurous.

Is it possible to make these without corn syrup?

If you prefer to skip corn syrup, use an equal amount of pure maple syrup or honey—it will slightly alter the flavor and the filling may be a touch less gooey, but they’ll still taste incredible.

Can I prepare the filling in advance?

Absolutely. You can make the pecan filling a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before assembling your crescent rolls so it’s nice and spreadable.

Are these Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls good for gifting?

Oh, yes! Package a few in cellophane bags or decorative boxes, and you’ve got an unforgettable homemade gift. They’re adorable, unique, and guaranteed to put a smile on anyone’s face.

Final Thoughts

Every bite of these Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls is buttery, rich, and truly soul-satisfying—a must-try recipe for both everyday snacking and celebratory sweets. Gather your ingredients and let yourself enjoy the delicious simplicity and cozy flavors. I can’t wait for you to try them and fall in love!

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