Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s both easy to make and ridiculously delicious, Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls are here to steal the show. Imagine buttery, flaky crescent roll dough wrapped around a rich, gooey pecan pie filling bursting with sweet corn syrup and crunchy nuts—a perfect bite every time. This sweet treat marries the classic charm of pecan pie with the convenient twist of crescent rolls, making it ideal for holiday gatherings, casual get-togethers, or just a cozy evening at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe shines because it keeps things simple yet flavorful, combining pantry staples with fresh nuts for a taste and texture that truly sing. Each component works together to create that golden, caramelized filling and tender, flaky crust.

• Dough: 1 can Pillsbury Crescent Rolls to provide the soft, buttery base that wraps everything perfectly.
• Chopped pecans: 3/4 cup for crunch and that unmistakable nutty flavor essential in any pecan pie.
• Granulated sugar: 1/2 cup adds the needed sweetness and helps form the sticky filling texture.
• Light corn syrup: 1/2 cup which gives that glossy, gooey consistency reminiscent of classic pecan pie syrup.
• Unsalted butter: 2 tablespoons, melted, to enrich the filling with a beautiful, smooth finish.
• Pure vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon enhances the natural sweetness and deepens the flavor profile.
• Large egg: 1, used to bind the filling ingredients together and give that lovely shine when baked.

How to Make Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. This simple prep step sets the foundation for baking your rolls to golden perfection.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the granulated sugar, light corn syrup, melted butter, vanilla extract, and the egg. Be sure to reserve 2 tablespoons of this mixture before adding the pecans. This sugary mixture is where the magic begins, giving the filling its luscious, caramel-like sweetness.

Step 3: Add Pecans to the Filling

Once the sugar mixture is ready, stir in the chopped pecans until they’re thoroughly coated with that glossy filling. This ensures every bite has an irresistible crunch and pecan-rich flavor that pecan pie lovers dream about.

Step 4: Roll the Crescent Dough

Unroll the crescent dough and separate it into individual triangles on your prepared baking sheet. Spoon 2 to 3 tablespoons of the pecan filling onto the widest end of each triangle and carefully roll it up toward the narrow end, creating those beautiful crescent shapes packed with sweet pecan goodness.

Step 5: Bake and Brush

Bake the rolls in your preheated oven for about 8 minutes until they just start to set. Then, pull them out and brush each roll with the reserved 2 tablespoons of the sugar mixture—this step adds a gorgeous, caramelized glaze. Return the rolls back to the oven for an additional 5 minutes until they turn a light golden brown.

Step 6: Final Touches

After baking, feel free to sprinkle on a few extra chopped pecans on top for a festive touch and an extra layer of crunch. Let them cool slightly so the filling can set before serving up these delightful Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls.

How to Serve Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate elevates these rolls instantly. If you want to get fancy, a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side creates a dreamy warm-and-cold combination that everyone loves.

Side Dishes

Serve these rolls alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a rich hot chocolate for the ultimate comfort treat. They also pair beautifully with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream for a balanced dessert plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Try arranging the rolls in a circular pattern on a festive platter for easy sharing at parties. You can also place them in mini cupcake liners to keep portions neat and add a pop of color—or even add a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top before baking for an extra layer of warmth.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftover Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They’re best enjoyed fresh but will still taste delightful if eaten the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze these rolls either before or after baking. To freeze unbaked, roll and place them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. For baked rolls, wrap tightly in foil and freeze up to a month. Just thaw before reheating and serving.

Reheating

Reheat in a preheated 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-10 minutes until warmed through and crisp on the outside. Avoid microwaving to keep that wonderful crescent roll texture intact.

FAQs

Can I use other types of nuts instead of pecans?

Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, or even a nut mix can work nicely, but pecans offer the classic flavor and texture famously associated with pecan pie.

Is it possible to make these rolls vegan?

Yes, with some swaps: use vegan crescent roll dough, substitute butter with a plant-based alternative, and replace the egg with a flax or chia “egg” to keep the filling binding well.

How long do the Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls take to bake?

The rolls bake in two stages: about 8 minutes initially, then brushed with the glaze and baked for another 5 minutes until golden brown, totaling around 13 minutes.

Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?

You can mix the filling ingredients a day in advance and store them covered in the fridge. Just stir well before assembling the rolls for best results.

What’s the best way to prevent the rolls from sticking to the pan?

Using parchment paper is the easiest way to avoid sticking and also makes cleanup simple, ensuring your rolls come off the pan beautifully intact.

Final Thoughts

Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls are such a fun and simple twist on classic pecan pie that anyone can whip up and share. They bring together buttery dough, sweet gooey filling, and crunchy pecans in an absolutely irresistible way. If you’re looking to impress your family or friends with a homemade treat that feels both nostalgic and fresh, this recipe is a must-try. Trust me, once you bake these, they’re sure to become a new favorite dessert in your recipe collection!

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