Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls
A holiday-worthy treat that captures the cozy charm of pecan pie in a flaky, buttery crescent roll. These quick pastries feature browned butter and toasted pecans for a polished bakery-style finish in just 25 minutes.
Equipment
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper
- Small saucepan
- Pizza Cutter
- Small bowl
Ingredients
- 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated Pillsbury™ Original Crescent Rolls (8 Count)
- 3 tablespoons packed brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- 3 tablespoons chopped pecans
- 1 egg, beaten
Instructions
Prep the Pan and Flavor
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent the sugar from sticking during caramelization.
- For a richer flavor, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat until the milk solids turn amber and it smells nutty. Remove from heat immediately and let it cool slightly before using.
Shape and Fill
- Unroll the crescent dough and separate into 8 triangles. Use a pizza cutter to slice each triangle lengthwise, creating 16 narrow pieces.
- In a small bowl, stir the brown sugar and cinnamon together. Brush each dough triangle with the melted or browned butter, sprinkle with the sugar mixture, and scatter chopped pecans over the top.
- Starting at the shortest end of each triangle, roll the dough snugly toward the pointed tip. Place each roll point-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
Finish and Bake
- Brush the tops of the rolls with the beaten egg and sprinkle with any remaining cinnamon sugar for a glossy, crunchy finish.
- Bake for 12 to 14 minutes, or until the rolls are a deep golden brown and feel firm to the touch. Let them cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Ingredient Tip: Always check your pecans for freshness before baking. They should smell sweet and nutty. For long-term storage, keep pecans in the freezer to prevent them from becoming bitter.
Nut-Free Variation: For a school-safe option, replace the pecans with toasted sunflower seeds or crushed pretzels to maintain that signature crunch.
Dough Texture: Keep the crescent dough refrigerated until the moment you are ready to shape it. Cold dough creates lighter, more defined flaky layers and is much easier to handle.
Make Ahead: You can assemble these rolls up to 2 hours in advance. Keep them covered and refrigerated on the baking sheet until you are ready to bake.
Nutrition information is estimated based on common ingredients and serving sizes and may vary.