Life’s sweetest moments often happen around the kitchen table. Imagine the comforting taste of a classic pecan pie, but simplified and ready in minutes. These Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls offer just that – a quick, easy, and utterly delicious dessert perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a simple sweet craving, these flaky, nutty treats are sure to bring smiles and warm memories.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love These Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls
You’ll quickly fall in love with these delightful Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls for many reasons:
- Quick & Easy: Forget complicated crusts! This recipe uses minimal ingredients and comes together in a flash.
- Classic Flavor, Simplified: Enjoy all the rich, buttery, nutty notes of traditional pecan pie without the fuss.
- Convenience at its Best: Store-bought crescent rolls make this a beginner-friendly recipe, perfect for any home cook.
- Perfect Individual Portions: Each roll is a personal dessert, ideal for serving guests or enjoying a single treat.
- Versatile for Any Occasion: These are wonderful for a family breakfast, a holiday brunch, or an evening dessert.
Ingredients
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls. This recipe focuses on simple, readily available items that deliver maximum flavor. You’ll need just a few essentials to transform everyday ingredients into a memorable treat.
- 1 can (8 rolls) Pillsbury Crescent Rolls
- 3/4 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
Notes & Substitutions
- Crescent Rolls: Any brand of refrigerated crescent roll dough will work beautifully. We used the classic Pillsbury dough, which unrolls into eight perfect triangles. Choose full-fat versions for the best flaky texture and rich flavor.
- Pecans: While chopped pecans are specified, feel free to use pecan halves for a chunkier texture, or roughly chop them yourself. For an even deeper, toasty flavor, spread your pecans on a dry baking sheet and toast them in the oven for 5-7 minutes before adding them to the filling. The process of toasting pecans helps to unlock their natural oils and deepen their nutty, woody flavors, as highlighted in a study on pecan flavor differences.
- Sugar/Corn Syrup: The combination of granulated sugar and corn syrup creates that signature gooey, sweet pecan pie filling. For alternatives, you can try using light brown sugar (packed) instead of granulated sugar for a hint of caramel notes. Maple syrup can also replace part of the corn syrup, but adjust the total sweetness as pure maple syrup is often less sweet.
- Butter/Egg/Vanilla: Quality ingredients make a difference. Use good quality unsalted butter to control the saltiness. The egg helps bind the filling and gives it that classic custard-like texture. Pure vanilla extract offers the best aroma and flavor profile compared to artificial versions.
Equipment
Having the right tools makes the baking process smooth and enjoyable. You likely have most of these items already in your kitchen.
- Large Mixing Bowl: Essential for combining your pecan pie filling ingredients thoroughly.
- Measuring Cups & Spoons: Accuracy is key for baking, ensuring the right balance of flavors.
- Whisk: Perfect for smoothly blending the wet ingredients for your filling.
- Baking Sheet: A standard cookie sheet or baking pan to hold your crescent rolls.
- Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup incredibly easy.
- Pastry Brush: Ideal for brushing the reserved glaze onto the rolls mid-bake for a beautiful finish.
How To Make Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls
Creating these Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls is a joy, designed to be straightforward and rewarding. Follow these steps to bake a batch of warm, gooey, and utterly delicious treats that your family will adore.
Step 1: Prep Oven & Pan
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. This step prevents sticking and ensures easy cleanup, allowing you more time to savor your delicious creation.
Step 2: Prepare Pecan Pie Filling
In a large bowl, whisk together the 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2 cup corn syrup, 2 tablespoons melted butter, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1 large egg until well combined and smooth. This creates the rich base for your filling. Set aside about 2 tablespoons of this mixture in a small bowl; this will be your luscious glaze later. Stir the 3/4 cup chopped pecans into the remaining sugar mixture in the large bowl, ensuring they are evenly coated.
Step 3: Fill Crescent Rolls
Unroll the can of Pillsbury Crescent Rolls on your prepared baking sheet and carefully separate the dough into eight individual triangles. Spoon 2 to 3 tablespoons of the pecan mixture onto the wide end of each crescent roll triangle. Gently roll each triangle from the wide end towards the narrow point, tucking in any filling that tries to escape.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place the filled crescent rolls on the parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving a little space between each. Bake in your preheated oven for 8 minutes. Carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven and brush each roll with the reserved sugar mixture you set aside earlier. This glaze will give them a beautiful, shiny finish. Return the rolls to the oven and bake for an additional 5 to 7 minutes, or until they are lightly golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls from the oven. If desired, you can sprinkle them with a few extra chopped pecans for garnish. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Serving them slightly warm is highly recommended, as the filling will still be wonderfully gooey.
Pro Tips for Perfect Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls
Achieving bakery-level results with your Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls is simple with a few smart tips. These insights will help you prevent common pitfalls and enhance the overall experience.
- Avoid Overfilling: It’s tempting to load up on filling, but too much can cause leaks. Stick to 2-3 tablespoons per roll for optimal results.
- Even Distribution: Spread the filling evenly across the wide end of each triangle. This ensures every bite has that delicious pecan pie flavor.
- Baking Sheet Preparation: Always use parchment paper. It’s your best friend for easy cleanup and preventing any sticky filling from adhering to the pan.
- Adjust Baking Time: Ovens vary, so watch your rolls closely. Bake until they are golden brown and the filling is set, adjusting time as needed for desired crispness.
- Toasting Pecans: Take a few extra minutes to lightly toast your pecans before adding them to the filling. This simple step significantly deepens their nutty flavor.
Serving Suggestions, Storage, & Variations
These Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls are incredibly versatile, perfect for any time of day or special occasion.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these warm, straight from the oven, for the ultimate treat. They pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of fresh whipped cream, or a drizzle of warm caramel sauce. For a cozy family breakfast or afternoon snack, enjoy them alongside a hot cup of coffee, tea, or even a glass of cold milk. They’re also a fantastic addition to a holiday brunch spread.
Storage
Allow your cooled Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls to reach room temperature before storing them. Place them in an airtight container, and they will keep well at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, you can gently warm them in a microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
Variations
Get creative and customize your pecan crescent rolls!
- Chocolate Lovers: Fold a handful of mini chocolate chips into the pecan filling for a rich, melty surprise.
- Sweet & Gooey: Add a few mini marshmallows to the filling before rolling for an extra layer of sweetness and a gooey texture.
- Extra Drizzle: After baking, drizzle your cooled rolls with extra caramel sauce, melted white chocolate, or even a simple powdered sugar glaze.
- Cinnamon Sugar Sparkle: Before baking, brush the unglazed rolls with melted butter and sprinkle them with a mix of cinnamon and sugar for a delightful crunch and spice.
Nutrition Information
Please note that the following nutritional values are estimates only.
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving (Estimate) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Total Fat | 15g |
| Saturated Fat | 5g |
| Cholesterol | 25mg |
| Sodium | 200mg |
| Total Carbs | 28g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Total Sugars | 18g |
| Protein | 3g |
These values can vary significantly based on specific brands of ingredients used and portion sizes. We recommend using an online nutrition calculator with your exact ingredients for the most precise information. For more detailed information on common food ingredients, you can consult the USDA FoodData Central database.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use homemade crescent dough?
Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade crescent roll recipe, feel free to use it. The baking time might need slight adjustments.
How many crescent rolls does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed for one standard can of crescent rolls, which typically contains 8 individual rolls. You can easily double the recipe for a larger crowd.
How do I prevent the filling from leaking?
The best way to prevent filling leaks is to avoid overfilling each roll. Stick to 2-3 tablespoons of mixture and ensure you roll them up tightly, tucking in the sides as you go.
Can I make these ahead of time?
You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble and bake the Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls just before serving for the best taste and texture.
Can these be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze baked crescent rolls. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight freezer bag for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature and reheat gently.
Final Thoughts
These Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls truly embody the spirit of simple, joyful baking. They offer all the beloved flavors of a traditional pecan pie in a convenient, individual package, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re whipping up a quick dessert for your family or need an easy contribution to a holiday gathering, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. We encourage you to try this delightful twist on a classic and create new memories. Share your creations and don’t forget to rate the recipe!
Easy Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, vanilla extract, and egg; set aside two tablespoons of this mixture, then stir the pecans into the remaining mixture.
- Unroll the Pillsbury Crescent rolls and separate them on the prepared baking sheet. Spoon 2-3 tablespoons of the pecan mixture onto each crescent roll and roll them up from the largest end to the smallest.
- Bake for 8 minutes, then remove from the oven and brush with the reserved sugar mixture. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until lightly browned, then top with more chopped pecans if desired.
Notes
Hi there, I’m chef living in New York City. Every morning, I wake up to the sounds of my little one’s laughter and the comforting routine of preparing breakfast for my family my husband, our child, and my beloved mother, who’s become both my rock and my inspiration since my father passed away. As the only daughter left in our family, I feel a deep responsibility to carry on his memory whenever I step into the kitchen.
- Dominique
- Dominique
- Dominique
- Dominique
