Name: Pecan Pie Crescents: 8 Easy & Delicious Treats
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 can crescent roll dough; 1 cup pecans, chopped; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup corn syrup; 1/4 cup butter, melted; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash); Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)

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Pecan pie crescents have a way of transporting me straight back to cozy autumn afternoons. I vividly remember my mom making these whenever the leaves started to turn, the sweet, nutty aroma filling our kitchen. There’s something so comforting about that classic pecan pie flavor nestled inside warm, flaky crescent dough. These homemade pecan pie crescents are my go-to for a quick, satisfying treat that feels special without much fuss. They’re incredibly easy and always disappear fast! Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love These Pecan Pie Crescents

You’re going to adore these delightful treats for so many reasons!

Incredible taste: A perfect harmony of sweet, buttery pastry and rich, nutty pecan filling.
Super speedy prep: These are truly easy pecan pie crescent rolls, taking minimal time to assemble.
Budget-friendly delight: Uses simple, affordable ingredients you likely already have.
Family favorite: Kids and adults alike go crazy for this comforting dessert.
Versatile treat: They work beautifully as a breakfast pastry or a holiday cookie.
Quick baking time: Perfect for when you need a dessert in a flash.
A delightful twist: This pecan pie crescent cookie recipe offers all the classic flavors in a fun, new format.
Pure comfort: Each bite feels like a warm hug, making them ideal for any cozy gathering.

Ingredients for Pecan Pie Crescents

Gather these simple ingredients to create the most delicious pecan pie filling and pastry:

1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough – this is the secret to their ease!
1 cup chopped pecans – for that satisfying nutty crunch
1/2 cup packed light brown sugar – adds sweetness and moisture to the filling
1/4 cup light corn syrup – essential for that classic gooey, chewy texture
1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, melted – brings richness and helps bind the filling
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract – enhances all the sweet flavors
1 large egg, beaten – this is for an optional egg wash to give them a beautiful golden sheen
Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional) – for a pretty finish

How to Make Pecan Pie Crescents

Whipping up these delightful treats is surprisingly simple and oh-so-rewarding. The aroma that fills your kitchen as they bake is pure magic!

Step 1: First things first, let’s get that oven ready. Preheat your oven to the temperature recommended on your crescent roll package, usually around 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes cleanup a breeze and prevents any sticky situations.
Step 2: Now, let’s whip up that irresistible pecan pie filling. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the chopped pecans, packed light brown sugar, light corn syrup, melted unsalted butter, and pure vanilla extract. Stir everything together until it’s beautifully combined and smells amazing.
Step 3: Time to assemble our little crescent bundles! Carefully unroll the refrigerated crescent dough and separate it into the pre-cut triangles. Lay each triangle flat.
Step 4: Place a generous spoonful of that glorious pecan mixture onto the wide end of each crescent dough triangle. Then, starting from the wide end, gently but snugly roll up the dough towards the point. You want a nice, even roll to create the perfect crescent shape. This creates our wonderful pecan pie crescent pastry.
Step 5: Arrange your beautifully rolled crescents on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them a couple of inches apart. They’ll puff up as they bake.
Step 6: For that gorgeous golden-brown finish, brush the tops of each crescent with the beaten egg. This little step really elevates the appearance of your pecan pie crescent bake.
Step 7: Bake for the time indicated on your crescent roll package, typically around 10–12 minutes, or until the crescents are puffed and beautifully golden brown. Keep an eye on them – you want them toasted, not burnt!
Step 8: Once they’re out of the oven, let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. If you like, dust them with a bit of powdered sugar for that extra touch of sweetness and visual appeal. Enjoy your homemade pecan pie crescents!

Pro Tips for the Best Pecan Pie Crescents

Want to elevate your pecan pie crescent game? I’ve got a few tricks up my sleeve that make all the difference:

For irresistibly chewy pecan pie crescents, don’t overbake them! Pull them out as soon as the edges are golden brown.
Chop your pecans finely; this helps distribute the nutty flavor evenly throughout the filling.
If you want an extra rich flavor, use butter in the filling instead of margarine.
Ensure your crescent dough is fresh. Stale dough won’t puff up as nicely for that perfect pastry texture.

What’s the secret to perfect Pecan Pie Crescents?

The key is a well-balanced filling and not overworking the pecan pie crescent dough. Using corn syrup is crucial for that signature gooeyness, and a gentle touch when rolling ensures a beautiful, even bake. Learn more about the science behind baking here.

Can I make Pecan Pie Crescents ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the filling and assemble the crescents up to 24 hours in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator on the baking sheet before baking. Just be sure to bring them closer to room temperature for about 15 minutes before baking for best results.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Pecan Pie Crescents?

A common pitfall is overfilling the crescent rolls, which can cause the filling to ooze out during baking. Also, resist the urge to overmix the filling ingredients; gentle combining is best. Finally, watch the bake time closely to prevent burning the delicate pastry. For more baking tips, check out this guide to baking tips and tricks.

Best Ways to Serve Pecan Pie Crescents

These delightful treats are incredibly versatile, making them a perfect addition to almost any occasion. For a truly decadent experience, serve these warm pecan pie crescent bites alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream – the contrast of warm pastry and cold, creamy sweetness is divine. They also make a fantastic pairing with a hot cup of coffee or a soothing mug of spiced apple cider, especially during fall gatherings. This easy pecan pie crescent roll recipe is a crowd-pleaser, and as a simple yet elegant pecan pie crescent dessert, it’s sure to impress your guests without any fuss. If you’re looking for other fall-inspired treats, you might enjoy our Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler.

Nutrition Facts for Pecan Pie Crescents

Let’s break down what makes these little bites so delicious:

Calories: 210
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 12g
Protein: 2g
Sodium: 150mg
Cholesterol: 20mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used in your pecan pie crescent dessert.

How to Store and Reheat Pecan Pie Crescents

Once these delightful pecan pie crescent bites have cooled, proper storage is key to keeping them tasting fresh. Let them cool completely on a wire rack before storing. For short-term enjoyment, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. If you want to keep these sweet treats longer, you can freeze them! Wrap each cooled crescent individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm them gently in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes until they’re just warmed through and the pastry is crisp again. For more storage tips, consider this guide on food safety.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pecan Pie Crescents

What makes these Pecan Pie Crescents so special?

These pecan pie crescents are a delightful fusion of classic pecan pie flavors and the ease of crescent rolls. They offer that warm, nutty, caramel-like taste you love in a wonderfully flaky, buttery pastry. They’re perfect for any occasion and incredibly easy to make. For more dessert inspiration, check out our Desserts category.

Can I use different nuts in my Pecan Pie Crescents?

Absolutely! While pecans are traditional, you can easily substitute walnuts for a slightly different flavor profile. You could even try a mix of both. This adaptability makes them a versatile option, and they’ll still be wonderfully sweet pecan pie crescent rolls. If you enjoy nutty flavors, you might also like our Chewy Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies.

How do I get a really gooey center in my Pecan Pie Crescents?

The key to that gooey center lies in the filling. Make sure to use the corn syrup as directed; it’s what gives them that signature chewy, caramel-like texture. Don’t overbake them, as this can dry out the center. Pull them out when the edges are golden! For more baking tips, consider this guide on ingredient properties.

Are these good for holiday baking?

Yes, they are fantastic for holiday baking! Their festive appearance and delicious taste make them a hit at any gathering. They are so easy to make in batches, allowing you to prepare a wonderful assortment of sweet pecan pie crescent rolls for your guests. You might also enjoy our Pumpkin Whoopie Pies for another holiday favorite.

Variations of Pecan Pie Crescents You Can Try

Looking to mix things up? These simple twists make your pecan pie crescent dessert even more exciting!

Chewy Chocolate Pecan Pie Crescents: Add 1/4 cup of mini chocolate chips to your pecan filling for a decadent chocolate-pecan flavor combination.
Gluten-Free Pecan Pie Crescents: Use your favorite gluten-free crescent roll dough and ensure your other ingredients are certified gluten-free. The nutty filling is naturally gluten-free!
Maple Pecan Pie Crescents: Swap the corn syrup for pure maple syrup and use a maple extract instead of vanilla for a delightful fall flavor. This also works well with a brown sugar pecan pie crescent topping.
Air Fryer Pecan Pie Crescents: For an extra-crispy pastry, try air frying them at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes, checking frequently to prevent burning.