Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls

Pecan pie crescent rolls combine the rich, gooey flavors of classic pecan pie with the soft, flaky texture of buttery crescent rolls. This easy recipe makes a delightful treat perfect for holiday gatherings or anytime you want a fun twist on a traditional dessert.

Ingredients

• Pillsbury Crescent Rolls: buttery and flaky, the perfect vessel for the sweet filling; choose fresh refrigerated dough for best texture
• Chopped pecans: add crunchy texture and nutty flavor; opt for fresh pecans without any added salt or oils
• Sugar: sweetens the filling; use regular granulated sugar for balanced sweetness
• Corn syrup: provides that sticky, luscious binding quality essential to pecan pie texture; light corn syrup is ideal here
• Butter melted: adds richness and helps bind the filling together; use unsalted to control saltiness
• Vanilla extract: enhances the deep sweetness and adds warm aroma; choose pure vanilla extract for best flavor
• One large egg: acts as a binder and adds moisture to the filling

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet:

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easy. Set aside while you prepare the filling.

Mix Pecan Pie Filling:

In a large bowl, thoroughly combine sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, vanilla extract, and the egg. Reserve 2 tablespoons of this mixture in a small bowl for later. Next, fold the chopped pecans into the remaining filling mixture to coat them evenly.

Prepare Crescent Rolls:

Unroll the Pillsbury Crescent Rolls and separate them into triangles. Place them spaced apart on the prepared baking sheet. Spoon 2 to 3 tablespoons of the pecan filling onto the widest part of each triangle.

Roll and Bake:

Starting at the widest end, roll each crescent up towards the point to encase the filling. Place them seam side down on the baking sheet. Bake for 8 minutes until the rolls start to brown lightly.

Glaze and Finish Baking:

Remove the rolls from the oven and brush the tops generously with the reserved pecan filling mixture you saved. Return the rolls to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the tops are golden and glossy. Remove and optionally sprinkle with extra chopped pecans for added texture and appeal.

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I love the way the pecans soften slightly while baking in the sweet syrup but still retain a satisfying crunch. This recipe always brings back memories of grabbing warm rolls straight from the oven with my family gathered around for holidays.

Storage Tips

Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To keep the crust flaky, avoid refrigeration if possible. For longer storage, freeze the rolls tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and foil. Reheat in a 350 degree oven until warm to revive fresh-baked texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

• Maple syrup can replace corn syrup for a richer, slightly different flavor but expect a thinner filling.
• Use vegan butter and a flax egg substitute to make these rolls dairy and egg free.
• To vary nuts, you can try chopped walnuts or pecan halves depending on your preference.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these rolls warm on their own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special dessert. They also pair beautifully with hot coffee or a spiced tea for cozy gatherings. A drizzle of caramel sauce adds even more indulgence.

Cultural Context

Pecan pie is a beloved Southern classic known for its sweet and nutty filling. These crescent rolls reinterpret that tradition into an easy, handheld format that’s especially popular for holiday brunch or potlucks. The marriage of gooey filling and flaky dough reflects the joy of creative comfort food.

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Recipe FAQs

→ How do I prevent crescent rolls from becoming soggy?

Ensure the pecan filling isn't too wet by measuring syrup and sugar carefully. Baking on parchment helps, and rolling tightly seals moisture inside, keeping the dough soft but not soggy.

→ Can I use different nuts instead of pecans?

Yes, chopped walnuts or almonds work well and offer a similar crunch and flavor profile to pecans in this preparation.

→ What is the best way to achieve a glossy finish on the rolls?

Brushing the reserved sugar and butter mixture on the rolls midway through baking adds shine and enhances sweetness on the crust.

→ Is it necessary to preheat the oven to 350 degrees?

Preheating to 350°F ensures even cooking and browning of the crescent rolls and the pecan filling for a perfectly baked result.

→ Can these rolls be prepared ahead of time?

You can assemble and refrigerate the rolls before baking, but allow them to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before placing them in the oven.