Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls

Soft crescent rolls filled with a gooey pecan pie center are everything I crave around the holidays or when I want a special weekend treat. This recipe transforms classic pecan pie flavors into simple handheld bites with hardly any fuss. I always make these for brunches and potlucks because everyone thinks they took hours but really it is just a quick spin in the kitchen.

The filling tastes like classic Southern pecan pie and the rolls come out warm and crisp from the oven. The first time I made these was for a Thanksgiving breakfast when I had extra crescent dough and leftover pecans — they disappeared from the table before I could pour my coffee.

Ingredients

• Pillsbury crescent rolls: Flaky and buttery pre-made dough gives you that soft layered bite Choose a name brand for the best rise and texture
• Chopped pecans: The star flavor and crunch of the recipe Select fresh pecans with a nutty aroma and avoid anything stale
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the filling for classic pecan pie taste Use pure cane sugar for the cleanest taste
• Light corn syrup: Gives the filling that sticky gooey texture similar to pecan pie Make sure it is clear and fresh
• Unsalted butter melted: Adds richness and flavor Look for a high-fat European-style butter for maximum taste
• Pure vanilla extract: Rounds out the sweet flavors Use real vanilla not imitation for best results
• Large egg: Helps the filling set up and adds richness Use a fresh egg at room temperature for best mixing

Instructions

Prep the Baking Sheet:

Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze

Mix the Filling:

In a large bowl whisk the granulated sugar light corn syrup melted butter vanilla extract and egg together until smooth Scoop out 2 tablespoons of the mixture and keep it aside for later

Add the Pecans:

Stir the chopped pecans into the filling mixture until every piece is coated and glossy

Shape the Crescent Rolls:

Unroll the crescent dough onto the prepared baking sheet Separate into triangles and make sure not to stretch the dough too thin Place 2 to 3 tablespoons of filling at the wide end of each triangle

Roll and First Bake:

Gently roll up each crescent starting from the wide end so the filling stays tucked inside Arrange them with the point underneath to prevent unrolling as they bake Bake in the center of a preheated 350 degree oven for 8 minutes until they just start setting up

Glaze and Finish Baking:

Remove from the oven and brush the tops with the reserved sugar mixture for a shiny flavorful glaze Return to the oven and bake another 5 minutes until golden brown

Finish and Serve:

Let rolls cool briefly before handling and sprinkle with extra chopped pecans for extra crunch if you like Serve warm for the best gooey center

My favorite part is the crispy caramelized edges where the filling bubbles out Once my mom and I made two pans for our neighbors and everyone asked for the recipe after one bite

Storage Tips

Once cooled these crescent rolls keep surprisingly well in an airtight container for up to two days at room temperature For longer storage refrigerate them on a plate covered with foil for up to five days Warm for a few seconds in the microwave to refresh that gooey center

Ingredient Substitutions

If you need to skip corn syrup you can swap in pure maple syrup or honey Both lend a delicious but slightly different flavor You could use walnuts instead of pecans if that is what you have

Serving Suggestions

I love to arrange these on a platter dusted lightly with powdered sugar For special occasions serve with a dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of chocolate sauce They are also delicious with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert

Cultural and Holiday Context

Pecan pie is a Southern classic usually reserved for Thanksgiving or family celebrations These easy crescent rolls let you serve the nostalgic flavors of pecan pie anytime of year no special occasion required

Seasonal Adaptations

Use chopped toasted walnuts or almonds in place of pecans Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for warm spice Top crescents with orange zest for a festive winter twist

Success Stories

A friend brought a plate to a holiday brunch and reported that everyone assumed she purchased them at a bakery Kids especially love the bite size pieces and adults love the flaky crunch I have yet to meet anyone who does not ask for seconds

Freezer Meal Conversion

To freeze prepare and shape the rolls but do not bake Freeze on a sheet until solid then transfer to a zip bag Bake straight from frozen at 350 degrees for about 15 to 18 minutes adding the reserved glaze in the last few minutes

For the best results serve the crescent rolls warm and fresh from the oven. Your friends and family will think you spent all morning baking.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use homemade crescent dough?

Yes, homemade crescent dough works well and offers an even flakier, more customized result.

→ How do I keep the rolls from sticking?

Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make clean-up easier.

→ Is there a substitute for corn syrup?

You may use maple syrup or honey in place of corn syrup, though flavor and texture may differ slightly.

→ Can these be made ahead?

These crescent rolls taste freshest warm, but you can reheat leftovers in the oven to restore crispness.

→ What’s the best way to serve them?

Serve warm, optionally topped with extra pecans or a dusting of powdered sugar for added texture and sweetness.