As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of buttery crescent rolls wafted around me, instantly transporting me to memories of festive gatherings filled with laughter and joy. Have you ever thought about elevating classic flavors into a delightful new twist? These Easy Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls do just that! By wrapping soft, flaky dough around a sticky, nutty pecan filling, this recipe offers a simple yet indulgent dessert that’s perfect for holiday celebrations or a cozy weekend treat. Plus, they’re vegetarian and quick to assemble, making them a fantastic choice for busy home chefs eager to impress without fuss. Whether enjoyed warm, straight from the oven, or as a sweet pairing with your favorite ice cream, these crescent rolls are sure to spark happiness at your table. Ready to dive into this delicious creation? Let’s get started!
Why are Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls so delightful?
Soft, Buttery Goodness: The Pillsbury crescent rolls serve as a delightful base, delivering that signature buttery flavor and flaky texture.
Gooey Pecan Filling: Each roll is filled with a rich, sticky blend of chopped pecans and sweet syrup, reminding you of classic pecan pie in every bite.
Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cook time, you can whip these up for unexpected guests or a sweet treat anytime.
Versatile Twists: Love walnuts? Go for it! You can easily swap the pecans for walnuts or almonds for a fun variation.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Bring these to gatherings and watch them disappear! They pair wonderfully with coffee or can be served warm with a scoop of ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
For additional festive inspiration, check out our Banana Pecan Caramel and Giant Reeses Pie recipes.
Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls Ingredients
For the Dough
• Pillsbury Crescent Rolls – This convenient base makes rolling and baking a breeze, ensuring that flaky layers are achieved every time.
For the Filling
• Chopped Pecans – These add delightful crunch and sweetness; consider substituting with walnuts or almonds for a tasty twist.
• Granulated Sugar – Essential for the filling's sweetness and caramelization; no substitutes are recommended as it plays a crucial role in flavor.
• Light Corn Syrup – Provides moisture and helps achieve that gooey filling; steer clear of dark corn syrup for a milder taste.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and helps create a beautiful golden crust; margarine can work as a dairy-free alternative.
• Vanilla Extract – Elevates the flavor; using pure extract will yield the best results, so skip the imitation varieties.
• Large Egg – Acts as a binder in the filling; if you're looking for a vegan option, an egg replacer can be used.
For Topping (Optional)
• Reserved Sugar Mixture – Brushing this on halfway through baking enhances flavor and gives a luscious finish.
• Additional Chopped Pecans – For an extra crunch and visual appeal on top before serving.
Get ready to dive into making these delightful Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls, and watch as they add a cozy touch to your gatherings!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms, grab a rimmed baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This will prevent the rolls from sticking and make cleanup a breeze. Take a moment to enjoy the scent of the buttery crescent rolls you’re about to create!
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine granulated sugar, light corn syrup, melted unsalted butter, vanilla extract, and a large egg. Whisk these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Reserve about 2 tablespoons of this luscious filling for later, allowing it to add an extra layer of sweetness.
Step 3: Stir in the Pecans
Add the chopped pecans to the remaining filling mixture in the bowl. Gently fold them in until they are fully coated in the gooey goodness. This rich, sticky pecan filling is what makes the Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls so indulgently delicious!
Step 4: Unroll the Crescent Dough
Open the package of Pillsbury Crescent Rolls and carefully unroll the dough directly onto your prepared baking sheet. Gently separate the dough into triangles, ensuring each piece remains intact. The flaky texture of the crescent rolls will create a lovely enveloping shell for your pecan filling.
Step 5: Fill and Roll the Dough
At the widest end of each triangle, spoon 2-3 tablespoons of the pecan filling mixture. Tightly roll the dough towards the narrow end, tucking in the filling as you go. The anticipation builds as each crescent roll takes shape, ready to be transformed into a golden treat!
Step 6: Bake the Rolls
Pop the filled Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls into your preheated oven and bake for 8 minutes. You’ll know they are ready for the next step when the dough starts to set. Carefully remove the rolls and brush the tops with the reserved sugar mixture to enhance their shine and sweetness.
Step 7: Finish Baking
Return the crescent rolls to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes. Keep an eye on them: they should turn golden brown and smell heavenly. The combination of the flaky crust and the gooey filling is going to make this quick indulgence unforgettable.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, let the Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls cool slightly on the baking sheet. For added flair, sprinkle with any remaining chopped pecans. Serve them warm on their own, or pair with a scoop of ice cream. These delightful rolls bring a fresh twist to a classic dessert, perfect for any occasion!
How to Store and Freeze Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls
Room Temperature: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps them soft and fresh for your next sweet craving.
Fridge: If you prefer, you can refrigerate the rolls, but they should be consumed within 3 days. Reheat in the oven to restore their flaky texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, tightly wrap the cooled rolls in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat from frozen, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-12 minutes until warmed through. Enjoy your delicious Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls as if they were just baked!
What to Serve with Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls
Indulge in these delightful crescent rolls with a few tasty companions for a complete and cozy dining experience.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream enhances the rich flavors of the rolls, creating a perfect dessert pairing.
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Spiced Coffee: A warm cup of spiced coffee offers a comforting warmth that balances the sweetness of the pecans beautifully.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: For a unique savory contrast, serve these rolls alongside creamy mashed potatoes, adding a delightful textural contrast to your plate.
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Apple Cider: Sipping on warm apple cider will elevate the cozy atmosphere while complementing the nutty flavors of the rolls.
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Mixed Green Salad: A fresh mixed green salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette can add a crunchy, refreshing balance to the rich rolls; a burst of freshness with every bite.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzling a bit of melted chocolate over the rolls before serving adds an extra level of decadence, making them even more indulgent.
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Fresh Berries: A side of fresh berries provides a tart contrast to the sweetness of the rolls, enhancing their overall flavor profile. Enjoy the harmony of tastes!
Expert Tips for Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls
• Measure Carefully: Properly measuring your sugar and corn syrup is crucial; too much can lead to a too-wet filling that won’t hold its shape.
• Room Temperature Dough: Allow refrigerated crescent dough to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before unrolling to ensure even baking and prevent tearing.
• Line the Baking Sheet: Using parchment paper helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup effortless—don’t skip this step!
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the rolls as they bake; ovens can vary, and you want them to be perfectly golden without overbaking.
• Serve Fresh: Enjoy these Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls warm for the best texture and flavor; they’re at their most indulgent straight from the oven!
Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize your Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls with these fun ideas!
- Nutty Alternatives: Swap chopped pecans for walnuts or sliced almonds for a different nutty twist.
- Choco-Pecan Delight: Mix in chocolate chips with your pecan filling for a rich, indulgent chocolate version.
- Cinnamon Sugar Swirl: Sprinkle cinnamon and sugar on the crescent roll triangles before adding the filling for a warm, spiced flavor boost.
- Add Some Heat: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes into the filling for a surprising kick that complements the sweetness.
- Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle caramel sauce over the baked rolls to elevate the decadence and add a luscious finish.
- Peanut Butter Twist: For a creamy contrast, add a dollop of creamy peanut butter to the filling mixture for a nutty embrace.
- Cream Cheese Filling: Blend in softened cream cheese with your pecans for a rich and tangy surprise in each roll.
- Make it Vegan: Use an egg replacer and margarine instead of butter to create a plant-based version of this delightful treat.
These variations can turn a classic recipe into something new and exciting. For more ideas on tantalizing recipes, check out our Brussels Sprouts Pie for a savory twist or try the Pecan Pie Dump for a hassle-free dessert option!
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time in the kitchen! You can prepare the pecan filling and assemble the rolls up to 24 hours in advance. To do this, simply prepare the filling and spoon it onto the crescent dough as directed. After rolling them up, place the assembled rolls on a baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. When you’re ready to bake, remove them from the fridge and allow them to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before baking. This way, they’ll bake up light and flaky, just as delicious as if made fresh!
Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls Recipe FAQs
What type of pecans should I use for the filling?
Using chopped pecans enhances the flavor and texture of the filling; they're the classic choice! If you want to switch things up, feel free to substitute walnuts or almonds for a different nutty twist.
How should I store leftover Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you refrigerate them, they should be consumed within 3 days. Remember, they taste best when enjoyed fresh!
Can I freeze Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls?
Absolutely! For longer storage, you can freeze the cooled rolls. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy them, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake frozen rolls for about 10-12 minutes until warmed through.
Why did my filling turn out too runny?
Ensuring precise measurements of sugar and corn syrup is key to a perfect filling. If your filling is too wet, you likely used too much syrup. Advertise caution with the amounts, and remember that the filling thickens slightly as it bakes!
Are these rolls safe for people with nut allergies?
Unfortunately, since Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls contain pecans, they're not suitable for anyone with nut allergies. You might consider experimenting with nut-free fillings like chocolate or fruit preserves to create a similar pastry without the nuts.
Can I make these rolls vegan?
Yes! To create vegan Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls, you can omit the egg and use a suitable egg replacer. Additionally, substituting the unsalted butter with a dairy-free margarine makes this recipe deliciously plant-based!
Delicious Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls for a Cozy Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Combine granulated sugar, light corn syrup, melted unsalted butter, vanilla extract, and a large egg in a mixing bowl. Whisk until smooth.
- Stir in the chopped pecans until coated with the filling mixture.
- Unroll the Pillsbury Crescent Rolls and separate into triangles on the baking sheet.
- Spoon 2-3 tablespoons of the pecan filling on the widest end of each triangle and roll tightly.
- Bake the rolls for 8 minutes until setting.
- Brush with the reserved sugar mixture and bake for an additional 5 minutes until golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly and serve warm, optionally garnish with chopped pecans.
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