There’s something magical about the melding of flavors that happens when you turn a classic dessert into a handheld delight. Enter Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls—a creative twist on that beloved holiday staple. These soft, buttery rolls wrap around a rich, sticky pecan filling infused with brown sugar and vanilla, transforming the traditional pecan pie experience into an indulgent treat that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy. With minimal prep time, these vegetarian-friendly delights are perfect for gatherings or a cozy afternoon snack. Trust me, once you take that first warm bite, you’ll be eager to share them with friends and family. What festive occasion will you be celebrating with these delightful rolls?

Why Choose Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls?

Indulgent Flavor: These rolls offer the rich, gooey taste of pecan pie wrapped in a convenient crescent shape—perfect for any dessert lover.

Quick and Simple: With minimal prep time, you can whip up these treats in no time, making them an ideal choice for last-minute gatherings or cozy nights in.

Versatile Options: Feel free to customize your rolls! Switch up the nuts or add spices like cinnamon for a seasonal twist.

Crowd-Pleasing Treat: They’re perfect for sharing, whether at holiday parties or potlucks, and are sure to impress your guests.

Comfort Food at Its Finest: Warm and flaky, each bite of these rolls combines comfort with an indulgent treat that brings smiles all around.

Pair them with a scoop of ice cream or a cup of coffee for that extra special touch! For another delightful dessert, check out my recipe for Pecan Cream Pie and keep the sweetness flowing!

Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls Ingredients

For the Dough

Crescent Rolls – Use refrigerated Pillsbury Crescent Rolls for an easy and flaky base.

For the Filling

Chopped Pecans – Adds delightful crunch; substitute with walnuts or almonds if desired.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the filling; adjust to taste for a personalized sweetness.
Light Corn Syrup – Creates that signature gooey texture; maple syrup can be a flavorful alternative.
Unsalted Butter – Delivers richness; margarine can work for a dairy-free option.
Pure Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor profile beautifully; homemade is wonderful if you have it.
Egg – Binds everything together for a perfect consistency; replace with a flax egg for a vegan version.

Enjoy crafting your Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls—an indulgent dessert that will delight every palate!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin your Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While waiting for the oven to heat up, prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. This will prevent the rolls from sticking and make for easy cleanup later.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a medium bowl, combine granulated sugar, light corn syrup, melted unsalted butter, pure vanilla extract, and one egg. Mix until well-blended, then reserve 2 tablespoons of this delicious mixture for glazing later. Gently fold in the chopped pecans, ensuring they are evenly coated with the sticky filling.

Step 3: Assemble the Rolls
Unroll the refrigerated crescent dough on a clean surface, separating it into individual triangles. At the wide end of each triangle, spoon 2-3 tablespoons of the pecan filling. Starting from the wide end, roll each triangle towards the pointed end to form a crescent shape, ensuring the filling is securely wrapped inside.

Step 4: Initial Baking
Place the prepared rolls on your parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart. Bake in the preheated oven for about 8 minutes, watching for the dough to become set and slightly golden at the edges. This initial baking will create a lovely base for your sweet filling.

Step 5: Glazing the Rolls
After 8 minutes, remove the crescent rolls from the oven. Brush the reserved sugar mixture generously over each roll, giving them that delightful glisten. Return them to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the tops to caramelize and turn golden brown.

Step 6: Final Touches
Once the Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls are golden and fragrant, take them out of the oven and let them cool for a moment. For an extra festive flair, consider sprinkling additional chopped pecans on top. These delightful bites are now ready to be served warm for a perfect indulgent treat!

What to Serve with Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls?

These delightful treats offer a perfect foundation for a cozy, indulgent meal that warms the heart.

Vanilla Ice Cream:
A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully, balancing the sweetness of your rolls with its cool, silky texture.
Caramel Sauce:
Drizzling warm caramel sauce adds a luxurious touch, enhancing the already rich flavors and creating a gooey experience.
Fresh Berries:
Juicy berries bring a refreshing tartness, cutting through the richness and adding vibrant color to your plate.
Spiced Tea:
A cup of spiced tea complements the cinnamon notes, creating a fragrant, comforting beverage perfect for sipping while enjoying your rolls.
Whipped Cream:
Light and airy whipped cream adds a delightful fluffiness, making each bite even more indulgent and satisfying.
Chocolate Drizzle:
For chocolate lovers, a drizzle of melted chocolate elevates the dessert, pairing the nutty flavor of the pecans with a rich sweetness.
Nutty Trail Mix:
Offer a side of nutty trail mix for a crunchy contrast, providing a delightful texture and adding layers of flavor to every bite.
Coffee:
A warm cup of coffee is a classic pairing, enhancing the flavors and giving you that cozy café experience right at home.
Pumpkin Spice Latte:
If autumn is in the air, savor a pumpkin spice latte—it’s the perfect seasonal complement, adding warmth and spice to your meal.

Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls Variations

Feel free to get creative with these delightful rolls and discover new flavor dimensions!

Nut Substitutes: Swap out pecans for walnuts or almonds for a different nutty twist. Each offers a unique texture while remaining deliciously crunchy.
Spice It Up: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a warm, fragrant twist. This seasonal touch can transform your rolls into cozy favorites for chilly evenings.
Dairy-Free Delight: Use margarine instead of butter for a dairy-free version. Your rolls will still taste rich and satisfying while being kinder on dietary restrictions.
Sweet Upgrades: Drizzle caramel sauce over the baked rolls for an over-the-top indulgent experience. Trust me, this added layer of sweetness pairs perfectly with the toasty flavors!
Fruit Fusion: Incorporate dried cranberries or chopped figs into the filling for a fruity burst. The added sweetness and texture can elevate these rolls to new heights!
Chocolate Chip Surprise: Mix in some semi-sweet chocolate chips to the pecan filling for a decadent chocolatey treat. It’s a delightful surprise inside that chocolate lovers won’t want to miss!
Flavorful Glazes: Experiment with flavored glazes by mixing powdered sugar with orange or maple syrup for a citrusy or rich finish. It’s a simple way to elevate the presentation and taste.
Mini Rolls: Create bite-sized versions by cutting the crescent dough into smaller triangles. These mini rolls are perfect for parties and will disappear in a flash!

Whichever variation you choose, these Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls are sure to please. And if you’re craving more dessert ideas, don’t forget to check out my recipes for Pumpkin Pie Flaky and Cinnamon Butternut Squash for even more deliciousness!

Make Ahead Options

These Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holidays! You can prepare the filling up to 24 hours in advance by mixing together the sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, vanilla, egg, and chopped pecans, then storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The dough can also be unrolled and cut into triangles ahead of time—just keep it tightly wrapped in the fridge to maintain its freshness. When you’re ready to serve, simply assemble the rolls, bake for the initial 8 minutes, brush with the reserved glaze, and finish baking. With these make-ahead tips, you can enjoy delicious, gooey rolls with minimal effort, leaving more time for festivities!

Expert Tips for Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls

Measuring Precision: Ensure your pecan filling isn’t too wet; accurately measure the corn syrup and sugar to achieve the desired gooeyness.

Tight Rolling: Roll the crescent dough tightly around the filling to prevent sogginess. This keeps your Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls deliciously flaky.

Room Temperature Dough: Allow refrigerated rolls to rest at room temperature for optimal baking. This step helps the dough bake evenly and rise beautifully.

Use Parchment Paper: Always use parchment for easy cleanup and to avoid sticking. It also helps achieve that lovely golden-brown crust.

Extra Flavor: For an enhanced taste, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling—perfect for those festive occasions!

How to Store and Freeze Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls

Room Temperature: Store leftover Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This helps maintain their flaky texture.

Fridge: If necessary, they can be kept in the fridge, but this may result in a slightly soggier crust. Consume within 1 day for the best taste.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze rolled and unbaked Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and foil. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To enjoy them warm, bake frozen rolls directly from the freezer in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15–20 minutes until heated through and golden brown.

Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls Recipe FAQs

What type of crescent rolls should I use?
I recommend using refrigerated Pillsbury Crescent Rolls for the best flaky texture. They’re convenient and save time in preparation, letting you focus on the delicious filling instead.

How do I store leftover Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls?
Store your leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Keeping them at room temperature helps maintain their delightful flakiness, but if you need to refrigerate them, be sure to consume within 1 day to avoid a soggier crust.

Can I freeze Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls?
Absolutely! You can freeze unbaked Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, simply bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until they’re golden brown and heated through.

Is there a way to make the filling less sweet?
Yes! You can adjust the granulated sugar to your taste preference. If you find the filling too sweet, try reducing the sugar by a couple of tablespoons. Additionally, consider replacing lighter corn syrup with maple syrup which has a deeper, more nuanced flavor.

Can I use alternative nuts for this recipe?
Certainly! If you’re not a fan of pecans, feel free to substitute them with walnuts or almonds for a different flavor profile and texture. You can also mix in some chocolate chips for a fun flavor twist if you’re feeling adventurous!

What should I do if the rolls are soggy after baking?
If your Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls turn out soggy, it might be due to overly wet filling or underbaking. Ensure that your filling is well-measured and the rolls are baked long enough. When rolling the dough, make sure it’s tight enough to avoid sogginess and let it rest briefly before baking if it’s been refrigerated.