Name: Pecan Pie Crescents
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 can refrigerated crescent roll dough; 1/2 cup chopped pecans; 1/3 cup brown sugar; 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional); Pinch of salt

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These crescents combine everything you love about pecan pie with the ease of refrigerated dough. No need to fuss with pie crusts or lengthy prep—just mix, fill, roll, and bake. The result is a warm, nutty, caramel-like filling tucked inside a soft, flaky roll. They’re great for serving a crowd, storing for later, or satisfying a last-minute dessert craving.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Refrigerated crescent roll dough
Chopped pecans
Brown sugar
Unsalted butter, melted
Vanilla extract
Ground cinnamon (optional)
Pinch of salt

Directions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a bowl, combine chopped pecans, brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, salt, and cinnamon if using. Stir until well combined.
Unroll the crescent dough and separate into individual triangles.
Spoon a small amount of the pecan mixture onto the wide end of each triangle.
Gently roll up each triangle, starting from the wide end and tucking in the filling as needed.
Place rolled crescents on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until golden brown.
Allow to cool slightly before serving. Optional: drizzle with a bit of extra melted butter and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar for a finishing touch.

Servings and timing

Makes: 8 crescents
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 10–12 minutes
Total time: 20–25 minutes

Variations

Add a drizzle of maple glaze or caramel after baking.
Mix in mini chocolate chips with the pecan filling for a chocolatey twist.
Use honey or maple syrup in place of brown sugar for a different flavor profile.
Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for extra warmth.
Turn them into mini turnovers using puff pastry instead of crescent dough.

Storage/Reheating

Store cooled crescents in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 325°F (160°C) for 5–7 minutes to restore crispness. These crescents can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge and warm before serving.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and refrigerate the rolled crescents for up to a day before baking.

Can I use homemade crescent dough?

Absolutely. Homemade dough will work beautifully if you prefer to avoid store-bought.

What kind of pecans should I use?

Use raw or lightly toasted chopped pecans. Toasting enhances the flavor but isn’t necessary.

How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?

Don’t overfill the dough, and press the edges gently to seal before rolling tightly.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Yes, though real butter gives the best flavor and richness.

Can I add cream cheese to the filling?

Yes, a small dollop of sweetened cream cheese adds a creamy twist to the filling.

Are these overly sweet?

They’re sweet, but balanced by the buttery dough. You can adjust sugar to your preference.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this recipe doubles easily—just use an extra can of crescent rolls and increase the filling accordingly.

Do they need to be served warm?

They’re best served warm, but still delicious at room temperature.

Can I glaze them with icing?

Yes, mix powdered sugar with milk or cream and drizzle for a simple glaze.

Conclusion

Pecan Pie Crescents are a quick and satisfying way to enjoy all the goodness of pecan pie in an easy-to-make, finger-friendly form. Whether you’re baking them for a holiday spread or as a weekday indulgence, these sweet, nutty crescents deliver comfort and flavor in every bite.