Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls Recipe

If you’ve ever dreamed of combining the flaky, buttery charm of crescent rolls with the rich, nutty sweetness of a classic pecan pie, then these Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls are about to become your new obsession. Imagine golden crescent rolls packed with a luscious filling of chopped pecans, sweet corn syrup, and a hint of vanilla that melts in your mouth with every bite. This delightful twist on a traditional dessert is easy to whip up, perfect for sharing, and so irresistibly delicious that it will quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, pantry-friendly ingredients is all it takes to create a spectacular dessert that balances sweet, nutty, and buttery notes flawlessly. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect texture and flavor for these Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls.

• Pillsbury Crescent Rolls: The base of our recipe, these pre-made dough triangles offer flaky layers and buttery flavor to cradle the filling perfectly.
• Chopped Pecans: Adding crunch and earthy warmth, pecans are the star nut that give this dish its signature texture and taste.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetness that balances the nuts and brings out the rich, caramel-like qualities of the corn syrup.
• Light Corn Syrup: Creates that sticky, glossy filling that binds everything together and provides a classic pecan pie sheen.
• Unsalted Butter, melted: Adds richness and helps meld the filling ingredients into a luscious combination.
• Pure Vanilla Extract: A small dash of vanilla enhances all the flavors and lends a comforting aroma.
• Large Egg: Acts as a binder in the filling and helps achieve that golden-brown finish when baked.

How to Make Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup. Having everything ready now will make the assembly seamless.

Step 2: Mix the Filling Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine granulated sugar, light corn syrup, melted butter, vanilla extract, and the egg. Whisk these ingredients thoroughly until smooth. Set aside 2 tablespoons of this mixture—this will be your glaze later on to give the rolls a beautiful sheen.

Step 3: Incorporate the Pecans

Fold the chopped pecans into the remaining sugar mixture in the bowl. Stir gently but completely until every bit of nut is coated in that sweet, sticky base. This filling captures the essence of pecan pie, with crunch and sweet syrup all in one bite.

Step 4: Assemble the Rolls

Unroll the crescent dough and gently separate it into the triangular pieces. On each triangle’s widest end, spoon 2 to 3 tablespoons of the pecan filling. Then roll the dough up towards the narrow tip, enveloping the filling inside to create neat little packages of pecan pie goodness.

Step 5: Initial Bake

Place your assembled rolls on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 8 minutes. This initial bake sets the dough and begins to meld the flavors without browning too quickly.

Step 6: Glaze and Finish Baking

Remove the rolls from the oven and brush each with the reserved 2 tablespoons of sugar mixture. This glaze will create a glossy, caramelized finish. Return the pan to the oven for another 5 minutes or until the rolls turn a lovely golden brown color.

Step 7: Optional Garnish

Once out of the oven, sprinkle extra chopped pecans on top for an added crunch and an inviting presentation that will make your guests’ mouths water.

How to Serve Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls

Garnishes

A sprinkle of powdered sugar dusted lightly over the tops adds a snowy, delicate touch that contrasts beautifully with the rich filling. You can also drizzle a bit of warm caramel sauce for that extra luscious finish.

Side Dishes

Pair these rolls with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. The creamy, cool texture perfectly balances the sweet, crunchy rolls and makes for an indulgent dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving these Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls on a rustic wooden board surrounded by fresh pecans and cinnamon sticks for a cozy, autumnal vibe. They also make fantastic bite-sized treats for brunch parties or holiday gatherings, especially when served warm.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover rolls can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Keep them covered to maintain softness and prevent drying out, though they are always best enjoyed fresh.

Freezing

If you want to prepare these treats in advance, you can bake the rolls and freeze them once cooled. Wrap each individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Just thaw before reheating.

Reheating

Warm the rolls in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 8–10 minutes. This slow warmth revives the flakiness and makes the filling bubbly once again, as delightful as when freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of nut in Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls?

Absolutely! While pecans give the traditional flavor, you can swap them for walnuts or even almonds to customize the nutty crunch to your preference.

Is it necessary to use light corn syrup?

Light corn syrup helps create the gooey, sticky filling characteristic of pecan pie, but you can substitute with golden syrup or honey for a slightly different flavor and texture.

Can I make Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls vegan?

For a vegan version, use plant-based crescent dough, replace butter with dairy-free margarine, and substitute the egg with a flaxseed or chia seed egg. The filling texture will be similar and still delicious.

How long do Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls take to bake?

The total baking time is about 13 minutes—8 minutes to set the rolls and 5 minutes after glazing for that perfect golden top.

Are these rolls good for breakfast or just dessert?

They’re so versatile! These Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls are wonderful as a sweet breakfast treat alongside coffee or as a cozy dessert after dinner.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to impress without spending hours in the kitchen, Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls are the way to go. They elegantly capture the flavors of a favorite classic pie in an easy-to-make, shareable form. Warm, buttery, and bursting with sweet pecan filling, these rolls are sure to make your day a little brighter and your gatherings a lot sweeter. Go ahead and give them a try—you deserve this delicious indulgence!

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