Every time I make Pecan Pie Crescents, I’m transported back to my grandma’s kitchen, where the scent of freshly baked pecan pie filled the air, curling around us like a warm embrace. She would always bake them for holiday gatherings, and they were the first thing to disappear. There was something about those gooey, nutty bites swaddled in soft, flaky dough that made everyone feel at home, even if we were miles away from ours. It’s a dessert that holds a special place in my heart, and now I get to share that joy with my family.

This cozy treat is perfect for fall and winter gatherings, or even just a quiet evening at home. Pecan Pie Crescents are quick to whip up, boasting the flavors of traditional pecan pie without the fuss. They're perfect for making memories, whether you’re serving them at Thanksgiving dinner, a potluck, or simply enjoying them on a chilly afternoon. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be making them a staple in your own kitchen, just like my grandma did.

Why You’ll Love "Pecan Pie Crescents"

Quick and easy to prepare, taking just 30 minutes from start to finish.
Uses minimal ingredients, making it budget-friendly and simple to whip up.
Family-friendly and perfect for kids to help with rolling and assembling.
Freezer-friendly! Bake extra and freeze for a sweet treat anytime.
Deliciously captures the flavors of traditional pecan pie in a fun, portable form.
Great for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to cozy family nights in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Pecan Pie Crescents Ingredients

1 can crescent roll dough (8-count) - I love using the Pillsbury brand for its consistent quality and flaky texture.
⅓ cup chopped pecans - You can toast them lightly for an extra nutty flavor.
¼ cup packed brown sugar - Light or dark works; dark gives a richer flavor.
2 tablespoons corn syrup (light or dark) - This adds that gooey sweetness we all love.
1 tablespoon melted butter - Makes everything better, right?
½ teaspoon vanilla extract - Go for pure vanilla for the best taste.
¼ teaspoon cinnamon (optional) - A hint of spice, especially nice in cooler months!
Pinch of salt - Just a little to balance the sweetness.
Egg wash (1 egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water, for brushing) - This gives those crescents a beautiful golden finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

First things first, let’s get that oven preheating to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your Pecan Pie Crescents bake evenly and come out perfectly golden brown.

Make the Filling

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the chopped pecans, brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon (if you’re using it), and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed. You want it to have a slightly gooey consistency that's going to be deliciously sticky inside those crescents.

Prepare the Dough

Now, take your can of crescent roll dough and pop it open. It’s always a little thrilling, isn’t it? Unroll the dough and carefully separate it into the triangles. Lay them out on a clean surface, with the wide end facing you. This is where the fun begins!

Assemble Pecan Pie Crescents

Grab a spoonful of that lovely pecan mixture and place it at the wide end of each triangle. Don’t be shy; just a heaping tablespoon will do! Then, carefully roll the dough from the wide end up to the tip, making sure to tuck in the filling as you go. You want to create a little parcel of joy!

Bake

Place the rolled crescents on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving a little space between each one. Now, brush the tops with your egg wash — this is the secret to that shiny, golden finish. Pop them in the oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes or until they’re beautifully golden brown. The aroma will be irresistible, so be ready to drool a little!

Variations

Feel free to get creative with your Pecan Pie Crescents! You can add chocolate chips or even butterscotch chips to the filling for a delightful twist. If you’re in the mood for something seasonal, try mixing in some pumpkin spice or even a splash of maple syrup. For those needing gluten-free options, look for gluten-free crescent roll dough available at many grocery stores. The possibilities are endless, so have fun experimenting!

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving

Serve your Pecan Pie Crescents warm for the best flavor! They pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. You can also sprinkle some extra chopped pecans on top for added crunch and presentation.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, they freeze beautifully! Just wrap them tightly and keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for that fresh-baked taste.

Helpful Notes

If you don't have corn syrup, honey or agave syrup can be great substitutes.
For a dairy-free version, use a dairy-free butter alternative.
Feel free to swap pecans for walnuts or almonds if you prefer a different nut.
Add some mini chocolate chips to the filling for a delightful chocolatey surprise!
If you like a little extra spice, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg along with the cinnamon.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze Pecan Pie Crescents?

Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked crescents by assembling them and then wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to bake, just pop them in the oven straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

How can I substitute the brown sugar?

If you don’t have brown sugar on hand, you can use white granulated sugar instead. For a similar flavor, mix 1 cup of white sugar with 1 tablespoon of molasses to create a quick brown sugar substitute.

What can I add to the filling for extra flavor?

There are so many delightful options! Consider adding mini chocolate chips, a splash of bourbon, or even some dried cranberries for a tart twist. You could also mix in a bit of orange zest for a refreshing citrus note.

How do I know when they are done baking?

You'll know they’re done when they are a beautiful golden brown color and the filling is bubbly. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time to make sure they don’t over-bake.

Can I use a different type of nut?

Yes, you can definitely swap out the pecans for other nuts! Walnuts or almonds work beautifully, too. Just make sure to chop them up into similar sizes for an even bake.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to make Pecan Pie Crescents as I am! This recipe is a wonderful way to gather your loved ones around the kitchen, sharing laughter and delicious bites. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, these little crescents are sure to bring smiles all around. So roll up your sleeves, trust your instincts, and enjoy the delightful aromas filling your home. Remember, cooking is all about love and joy, so don’t stress — just have fun! I can’t wait to hear how they turn out for you!

Pecan Pie Crescents

Author: Emily Parker
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A delicious twist on traditional pecan pie using crescent roll dough.

Ingredients

Scale

1 can crescent roll dough (8-count)
⅓ cup chopped pecans
¼ cup packed brown sugar
2 tablespoons corn syrup (light or dark)
1 tablespoon melted butter
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
Pinch of salt
Egg wash (1 egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water, for brushing)

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a bowl, mix chopped pecans, brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt.
Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into triangles.
Place a spoonful of the pecan mixture at the wide end of each triangle.
Roll the dough from the wide end to the tip.
Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Brush with egg wash.
Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Let cool before serving.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Try adding chocolate chips for an extra treat.
Serve warm for the best flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 crescent
Calories: 150
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: Pecan Pie Crescents, dessert, pecan, crescent rolls