Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls Recipe – Easy Holiday Dessert with Flaky Dough & Gooey Filling

Why Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls Are the Sweet Shortcut to Holiday Bliss

Welcome to a world of warm ovens, sweet aromas, and effortless indulgence! If you’re craving a festive treat that’s as easy to make as it is delightful to eat, pecan pie crescent rolls are your new holiday hero. Imagine gooey, caramelized pecan pie filling wrapped in buttery, golden crescent dough—each bite a perfect blend of crunch and melt-in-your-mouth magic.

Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving dinner, planning a cozy Christmas brunch, or simply want to elevate a weekend baking session, these handheld pastries deliver big flavor with minimal fuss. They’re quick to prepare, easy to share, and guaranteed to impress guests of all ages. Plus, they bring all the nostalgic charm of classic pecan pie in a fun, portable twist.

So grab your apron and let’s roll into the season with something sweet, simple, and irresistibly satisfying!

What Are Pecan Pie Crescent Rolls?

Pecan pie crescent rolls are a delightful mashup of two beloved desserts: the rich, nutty decadence of pecan pie and the buttery convenience of crescent rolls. These handheld pastries are made by wrapping crescent roll dough around a luscious filling of chopped pecans, brown sugar, syrup, and butter—mimicking the gooey center of a traditional pecan pie.

Inspired by classic Southern baking and the versatility of store-bought dough, this treat has become a favorite for busy bakers and sweet tooths alike. They’re perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or anytime you want a quick dessert that feels homemade and indulgent.

What makes them so popular? Their simplicity, portability, and flavor-packed punch. No need for pie crusts or long bake times—just roll, bake, and enjoy. Whether served warm from the oven or cooled with a drizzle of caramel, pecan pie crescent rolls are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredient Breakdown: What You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up a batch of pecan pie crescent rolls:

Dough:

• 1 can refrigerated crescent roll dough (like Pillsbury)

Filling:

• ¾ cup finely chopped pecans
• ⅓ cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons corn syrup or maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Optional Add-ins:

• ¼ teaspoon cinnamon for warmth
• 1 teaspoon bourbon for depth
• Zest of ½ orange for brightness

Topping:

• Reserved glaze from the filling
• Powdered sugar for dusting
• Caramel drizzle for extra indulgence

Tip: Use finely chopped pecans to ensure even distribution and easier rolling. Larger pieces can tear the dough or create uneven pockets.

These ingredients come together in minutes, creating a filling that’s rich, sticky, and full of flavor. The crescent dough bakes into a golden, flaky shell that perfectly complements the sweet, nutty center. Customize with your favorite spices or toppings to make them uniquely yours!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to bake? Follow these simple steps for perfect pecan pie crescent rolls:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the filling: In a medium bowl, mix together chopped pecans, brown sugar, corn syrup or maple syrup, melted butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir until well combined and glossy. Reserve a tablespoon of this mixture for brushing the tops.
3. Unroll the crescent dough and separate it into individual triangles. Lay them flat on your prepared baking sheet.
4. Spoon a small amount of filling (about a tablespoon) onto the wide end of each triangle. Be careful not to overfill—leave space around the edges to prevent leaks and ensure a good seal.
5. Roll up each triangle, starting from the wide end and tucking the filling inside as you go. Curve the ends slightly to form a crescent shape.
6. Brush the tops with the reserved glaze for a shiny, flavorful finish.
7. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and puffed. Keep an eye on them—every oven is a little different!
8. Cool slightly before serving. For extra flair, drizzle with caramel sauce or dust with powdered sugar.

Tip: Don’t overfill the rolls. A modest amount of filling ensures they bake evenly and stay sealed. If desired, serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Taste & Texture Profile

Pecan pie crescent rolls offer a delightful contrast of textures and flavors in every bite. The exterior is buttery and flaky, thanks to the crescent dough, which crisps up beautifully in the oven. Inside, you’ll find a gooey, nutty filling that’s rich with caramelized brown sugar, warm vanilla, and the satisfying crunch of pecans.

The flavor profile is indulgent and festive—sweet without being cloying, with hints of maple or corn syrup that echo traditional pecan pie. Optional additions like cinnamon or bourbon add depth, while orange zest can brighten the overall taste.

Each roll has crisp edges and a soft, tender center, making them irresistibly snackable. They’re comforting and nostalgic, yet modern in their handheld form. Perfect for pairing with coffee, tea, or a holiday cocktail, these rolls are a celebration of cozy baking and seasonal cheer.

Whether served at brunch or dessert, they’re sure to steal the show.