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Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls

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Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls

Golden crescent rolls filled with a rich blend of brown sugar, pecans, butter, and a hint of cinnamon create a gooey, nutty treat reminiscent of classic pecan pie. Quick to assemble and bake, these handheld delights are perfect for brunch, dessert, or any cozy gathering.

Ingredients

  • Crescent roll dough – store-bought for convenience; choose the freshest for best rise
  • Chopped pecans – add authentic flavor and crunch; ensure they are fresh and not oily
  • Brown sugar – deep caramel notes; dark brown sugar for extra molasses flavor
  • Light corn syrup – ensures a gooey texture and glossy finish
  • Melted butter – unsalted for rich flavor and silky filling
  • Vanilla extract – pure for the best fragrance
  • Ground cinnamon – adds warmth and spice
  • Salt – a pinch to balance sweetness
  • Egg wash – for a glossy golden finish

Prepare the Oven and Pan

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and nonstick baking.

Mix the Filling

  1. In a small bowl, combine chopped pecans, brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt.
  2. Use a fork to blend until the mixture is thick, glossy, and evenly coats the pecans.

Shape the Dough

  1. Unroll crescent dough triangles on a clean surface, keeping them intact.
  2. Spoon a generous amount of pecan filling at the wide end of each triangle.

Roll and Seal

  1. Roll dough from the wide end toward the tip, enclosing the filling.
  2. Pinch seams and ends gently to prevent leaking during baking.

Arrange and Brush

  1. Place rolled crescents on the lined baking sheet with space between them.
  2. Brush tops with beaten egg wash for a shiny, golden finish.

Bake

  1. Bake in the center of the oven for 10–12 minutes.
  2. Watch for deep golden brown edges and puffed crescent shape.

Cool and Serve

  1. Let crescents cool for 5 minutes to allow filling to set slightly.
  2. Serve warm for gooey, nutty bites. Optionally drizzle with extra honey or serve with vanilla ice cream.

Tips for Best Results

  • Avoid overfilling dough to prevent leaks.
  • Chill filling briefly if your kitchen is warm, making it easier to roll.
  • Brush with melted butter halfway through baking for extra shine and crispness.
  • Toast pecans lightly for deeper nutty flavor, though optional.
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Storage

  • Store cooled crescents in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days.
  • For longer freshness, refrigerate and rewarm in the oven for a few minutes to restore crispness.
  • Freezer option: Assemble up to egg wash stage, freeze on a sheet until solid, then store in a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 2–3 minutes to baking time.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • Use homemade crescent dough if preferred; roll thin and cut into triangles.
  • Substitute walnuts or almonds for pecans if desired.
  • Maple syrup or honey can replace corn syrup for a rustic variation.
  • Melted coconut oil can replace butter for a dairy-free version.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve warm for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.
  • Pair with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate.
  • Top with vanilla ice cream for an indulgent twist.

Cultural Context

Pecan pie is a classic southern dessert, often featured on American holiday tables. Using crescent dough adapts the traditional pie into a quick, accessible, handheld treat while preserving nostalgic flavors.

Seasonal Variations

  • Winter: Dust with powdered sugar for a festive effect.
  • Fall: Add dried cranberries for a heartier flavor.
  • Toast pecans lightly to enhance richness.

Pro Tips

  • Pinch dough edges firmly to prevent filling leaks.
  • Work on a lightly floured surface to avoid sticking.
  • Use fresh cinnamon for best aroma and flavor.
  • Serve shortly after baking for maximum gooeyness and flavor.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use homemade crescent dough?
Yes, just roll thin and cut into triangles as instructed.

Do I need to toast the pecans first?
Optional; toasting enhances flavor but isn’t required.

Can honey replace corn syrup?
Yes, though it may slightly alter texture and sweetness.

How to prevent filling leaks?
Pinch dough edges firmly and tuck ends under.

How long do they keep?
Best fresh, but can be stored up to two days in an airtight container.

Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls are a quick, crowd-pleasing dessert that combines flaky pastry with gooey, nutty filling. Perfect for holidays, brunches, or cozy evenings, they deliver classic pecan pie flavor in a convenient, handheld form.