Why Make This Recipe

Pecan Pie Crescents are a delightful twist on traditional pecan pie. They combine the flavors of sweet, nutty pecans with the flaky, buttery texture of crescent rolls. These little treats are perfect for any gathering or simply for a cozy dessert at home. They’re easy to make, and the best part is that they taste like they took hours to prepare, even though they only take a short time!

How to Make Pecan Pie Crescents

Ingredients

1 can crescent roll dough (8-count)
1/3 cup chopped pecans
1/4 cup packed brown sugar
2 tablespoons corn syrup (light or dark)
1 tablespoon melted butter
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
Pinch of salt
Egg wash (1 egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water, for brushing)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a bowl, stir together the chopped pecans, brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon (if using), and salt until well combined.
Unroll the crescent dough and separate it into triangles.
Place a spoonful of the pecan filling at the wide end of each triangle.
Roll up the dough tightly like a crescent roll, pinching the ends slightly to prevent any filling from leaking out.
Place the rolls on the prepared baking sheet and brush each with the egg wash.
Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until golden brown and crisp.
Cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm and gooey!

How to Serve Pecan Pie Crescents

Serve these Pecan Pie Crescents warm, freshly baked from the oven. They make a great dessert for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or a sweet treat for coffee breaks. You can also sprinkle some extra chopped pecans on top or drizzle with a bit of caramel sauce for added sweetness!

How to Store Pecan Pie Crescents

If you have leftovers, let the crescents cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, simply place them in the oven for a few minutes until warmed through.

Tips to Make Pecan Pie Crescents

Make sure to use chopped pecans for even distribution in each roll.
For a more pronounced flavor, toast the pecans in a dry pan for a few minutes before adding them to the filling.
Don’t overfill the crescents; a spoonful of filling is enough to keep them from bursting.
Experiment with spices; a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom can add a nice touch.

Variation

You can try substituting the pecans with other nuts like walnuts or almonds, or adding chocolate chips for a chocolate-pecan version! Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite flavors.

FAQs

1. Can I use homemade crescent dough?
Yes, you can use homemade crescent dough if you prefer. Just roll it out and follow the same steps for filling and baking.

2. How do I know when they are done baking?
They should be golden brown and crisp. You can also check by gently tapping the bottom of a roll; it should sound hollow.

3. Can I freeze Pecan Pie Crescents?
Yes, you can freeze unbaked crescents. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag. When ready to bake, you can bake them directly from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.