As I watched the holiday festivities unfold, the air was alive with laughter and the delightful scent of rich desserts wafting through the room. Among the traditional offerings, I found myself drawn to a new creation: Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls. This festive twist on a Southern classic seamlessly wraps the beloved flavors of pecan pie in a soft, flaky crescent embrace. What I love about this easy recipe is how it transforms a classic dessert into a portable treat that’s perfect for sharing at gatherings—or indulging on quiet evenings at home. Plus, these crescent rolls are vegetarian and a radiant addition to your holiday table. Are you ready to get your hands deliciously sticky with this mouthwatering recipe? Let’s dive in!

Why Love Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls?

Absolutely irresistible: The warm, gooey pecan filling wrapped in flaky crescent dough makes each bite a heavenly experience.

Festive and fun: Perfect for holiday gatherings, these rolls infuse classic pecan pie flavors into a crowd-pleasing treat.

Quick and easy: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can pull these together effortlessly.

Versatile variations: Feel free to experiment by adding chocolate chips or substituting nuts for a personalized twist—endless delicious possibilities await!

Perfect pairings: Serve them warm with vanilla ice cream or spiced tea, and watch your guests smile as they indulge.

Elevate your dessert game this season with these delightful Cinnamon Roll Rolls for a sweet surprise!

Pecan Pie Crescent Roll Ingredients

This delightful recipe uses simple ingredients to create a festive treat!

For the Dough
Pillsbury Crescent Rolls – Easily available and creates a flaky texture.
For the Pecan Filling
Chopped Pecans – Adds flavor and crunch; can substitute with walnuts or almonds for a similar effect.
Granulated Sugar – Essential for caramelizing the filling and balancing sweetness.
Light Corn Syrup – Provides sweetness and moisture; avoid high fructose corn syrup for a cleaner taste.
Unsalted Butter (melted) – Adds richness and moisture; can use salted butter if adjusting additional salt elsewhere.
Pure Vanilla Extract – Imparts warmth without a direct substitution recommended.
Large Egg – Binds ingredients and helps with browning; omit for an egg-free version or replace with a flax meal substitute.

Let the delightful adventure begin as you gather these ingredients for your Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls! Happy baking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms, line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even baking. This step ensures that your Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls emerge golden and beautifully crisp, ready to delight your family and friends.

Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine granulated sugar, light corn syrup, melted unsalted butter, pure vanilla extract, and 1 large egg, whisking until well integrated. Reserve 2 tablespoons of this rich mixture for brushing later. This sticky, sweet filling will coat your chopped pecans and transform these crescent rolls into a mouthwatering treat.

Step 3: Incorporate Pecans
Next, stir in the chopped pecans, ensuring they are fully coated in the sweet mixture. This will create a luscious filling that’s reminiscent of a classic pecan pie. Allow your delightful pecan mixture to rest for a few moments while you get your crescent dough ready.

Step 4: Prepare the Crescent Dough
Unroll the Pillsbury Crescent Rolls and lay the individual triangles flat on the prepared baking sheet. Position them so the widest end is facing you, ready to be filled. This arrangement will make it easy for you to wrap the gooey pecan filling snugly in each piece of dough.

Step 5: Fill and Roll
Spoon a generous amount of the pecan filling onto the widest end of each crescent triangle. Carefully roll the dough towards the tip, enclosing the filling as you go. Arrange the rolled crescent rolls on the baking sheet, leaving space between each to allow for expansion during baking and to make serving a breeze.

Step 6: Bake the Rolls
Place the assembled rolls in the preheated oven and bake for 8 minutes, monitoring closely until they are set and puffed up. After this initial time, brush the rolls with the reserved sugar mixture for added sweetness and shine, then return them to the oven for an additional 5 minutes. Look for a beautiful golden brown color as the perfect sign they’re done.

Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once the Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls are out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet. This cooling period allows the filling to set slightly, making the rolls easier to handle. Optionally, sprinkle some additional chopped pecans on top for a delightful crunch before serving. Enjoy these festive treats warm, and watch your loved ones indulge!

Storage Tips for Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls

Room Temperature: Store leftover Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days for the best texture.

Fridge: If you prefer to extend their freshness, keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days; however, this may affect their flaky texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: To restore freshness, reheat frozen Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Enjoy them warm!

Make Ahead Options

These Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the pecan filling up to 24 hours in advance—simply mix all the filling ingredients and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can assemble the crescent rolls, place them on the baking sheet, and refrigerate them for up to 3 days before baking. Just ensure to let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before popping them in the oven to ensure even baking. When you’re ready to serve, just bake them as directed, and they’ll be just as delicious as if they were made fresh!

Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls Variations

Feel free to get creative with these festive delights—there are so many delicious ways to customize your Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls!

Nut Swap: Replace pecans with walnuts or almonds for a unique flavor twist. Each nut brings its distinct essence, enhancing your rolls beautifully.
Chocolate Indulgence: Add chocolate chips to the filling for an extra layer of richness. The delightful combination of chocolate and pecans offers a treat that will thrill dessert lovers.
Caramel Drizzle: Finish your rolls with a drizzle of caramel sauce after baking. This sweet addition elevates the overall taste and presentation, making your dessert truly spectacular.
Spiced Variations: Enhance the filling with a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg. Just a hint of warmth brings out the flavors of the nuts and sweet syrup beautifully.
Fruit Infusion: Mix dried cranberries or chopped apples into the pecan filling. These fruity additions create a wonderful contrast in flavor and texture, adding a festive flair.
Vegan Version: Substitute the egg with a flax seed egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water). This substitute works perfectly for those looking to keep it plant-based.
Mini Rolls: Use small crescent roll dough for bite-sized versions. These mini creations make perfect finger foods for holiday gatherings, inviting everyone to enjoy them in a fun way.

If you’re intrigued by playful twists, don’t forget to check out our delightful Brussels Sprouts Pie for another fun recipe option! Happy baking!

Expert Tips for Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls

Filling Consistency: Ensure your pecan filling isn’t too wet; measure syrup and sugar accurately to avoid sogginess in the rolls.
Use Parchment Paper: Bake rolls on parchment to help manage moisture and achieve a delightful, crisp crust—don’t skip this step!
Room Temperature Dough: Let refrigerated assembled rolls sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before baking for even cooking and better texture.
Brush for Gloss: Brush the rolls with the reserved sugar mixture halfway through baking for an extra touch of sweetness and shine on your Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls.
Cooling Time: Allow the rolls to cool slightly after baking; this helps the filling set and makes them easier to handle when serving.

What to Serve with Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls?

These delightful crescent rolls are perfect for creating a memorable meal that blends savory and sweet flavors.

Vanilla Ice Cream: The vanilla ice cream offers a creamy contrast to the rich, gooey filling of the rolls, enhancing their sweetness beautifully. Serve it warm, allowing the ice cream to melt slightly for a decadent experience.
Spiced Tea: A fragrant cup of spiced tea complements the nutty and sugary notes in the rolls, creating a cozy, soothing pairing for holiday afternoons.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant fruit salad adds a refreshing crunch and bright acidity to balance the richness of the pecan filling, making each bite feel light and uplifting.
Coffee or Espresso: The robust flavor of coffee elevates the indulgent sweetness of the rolls, making this duo perfect for breakfast or an evening treat.
Caramel Sauce Drizzle: For a touch of luxury, drizzle warm caramel sauce over the rolls to amplify their sweetness and add a luscious finish.
Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy whipped cream adds a delightful airy touch that contrasts with the gooey filling, transforming each roll into a heavenly dessert.
Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: This indulgent addition brings a touch of romance to your dessert platter, making it a spectacular option for special occasions.
Candied Nuts: Serve with a side of candied nuts for an extra crunch; their caramel sweetness beautifully complements the rolls’ rich flavors.

Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe and fresh pecans for the filling?
Absolutely! When choosing pecans, look for those that are firm, plump, and have an even color. Avoid any that have dark spots or appear shriveled, as these may be stale. For the best flavor, opt for pecans without any strong or rancid odor.

What is the best way to store leftover Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls?
I recommend storing leftover Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days for optimal texture. If you have leftover rolls beyond that, store them in the fridge for up to 3 days; just be aware this may affect their flaky quality. Make sure they are completely cooled before storing to avoid moisture buildup!

Can I freeze Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls? How do I do that?
Certainly! To freeze Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls, allow them to cool completely after baking. Place them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. They can be stored this way for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their delightful texture.

What if my pecan filling is too runny?
Very good question! If your pecan filling is too runny, it’s likely that the corn syrup was measured inaccurately or mixed too vigorously. To remedy this, add a tablespoon of extra chopped pecans to thicken the mixture, or let it sit for a few minutes to allow the sugars to bind together. It’s essential to keep the filling slightly thick to prevent sogginess in your crescent rolls, so try measuring ingredients accurately next time!

Are Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls safe for allergies?
While these rolls are vegetarian, they do contain common allergens like nuts and eggs. For those with nut allergies, you can substitute pecans with seeds or opt for a nut-free filling alternative. If someone is avoiding eggs, use a flax meal substitute instead of the large egg. Always be mindful of cross-contamination in your kitchen to ensure safety for all dietary needs!

What is the best way to reheat Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls?
To enjoy your Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls warm again, simply preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the rolls on a baking sheet. Reheat for about 10 minutes, checking to ensure they don’t overcook. This method helps to refresh their crispy exterior and gooey filling, making them just as delightful as when they were freshly baked.