Pecan Pie Crescents

Introduction

Pecan Pie Crescents combine the rich, gooey filling of classic Southern pecan pie with the flaky, buttery convenience of crescent roll dough. These bite-sized pastries are easy to make, irresistibly delicious, and perfect for holidays, parties, and quick dessert cravings. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, they deliver everything people love about pecan pie in a handheld, crowd-friendly form.

Ideal for busy bakers and beginner cooks alike, Pecan Pie Crescents use simple ingredients while still offering that indulgent caramel-pecan flavor associated with traditional pecan pie. Whether served warm from the oven or cooled for dessert trays, these crescents disappear fast.

In this complete guide, you’ll learn how to make perfect Pecan Pie Crescents, plus tips, variations, storage advice, and answers to common questions.

What Are Pecan Pie Crescents?

Pecan Pie Crescents are mini pastries made by filling crescent roll dough with a sweet pecan pie–style mixture, rolling them into crescents, and baking until golden and flaky. The dough puffs around the filling, creating a crisp exterior with a gooey, nut-filled center.

They offer the nostalgic flavor of pecan pie without the need for pie crust, slicing, or lengthy baking times. This makes them especially popular for holiday baking and last-minute entertaining.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic pecan pie flavor in an easy crescent roll format
• Quick to prepare with store-bought dough
• Perfect for parties, holidays, and bake sales
• Portable, mess-free dessert bites
• Freezer-friendly and make-ahead friendly

Ingredients Overview

Crescent Dough

• Refrigerated crescent roll dough

Pecan Pie Filling

• Chopped pecans
• Brown sugar
• Corn syrup or maple syrup
• Melted butter
• Egg
• Vanilla extract
• Salt

How to Make Pecan Pie Crescents

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, whisk together brown sugar, syrup, melted butter, egg, vanilla, and salt. Stir in chopped pecans until evenly coated.

Step 2: Fill the Dough

Unroll the crescent dough and separate into triangles. Spoon a small amount of filling onto the wide end of each triangle.

Step 3: Roll and Shape

Carefully roll each triangle toward the pointed end, enclosing the filling. Place seam-side down on a lined baking sheet.

Step 4: Bake

Bake in a preheated oven until the crescents are puffed and golden brown.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Allow the crescents to cool slightly before serving so the filling can set.

Tips for Perfect Pecan Pie Crescents

• Do not overfill to prevent leaking
• Use finely chopped pecans for even distribution
• Line the baking sheet with parchment for easy cleanup
• Let them cool briefly before serving

Delicious Variations

Chocolate Pecan Crescents

Add mini chocolate chips to the filling for a richer dessert.

Maple Pecan Crescents

Use maple syrup instead of corn syrup for a deeper, natural sweetness.

Bourbon Pecan Crescents

Add a small splash of bourbon for warm, Southern-style depth.

Nut-Free Version

Replace pecans with oats or crushed pretzels for texture.

Serving Suggestions

Pecan Pie Crescents are delicious served:

• Warm with powdered sugar dusting
• With vanilla ice cream
• Alongside coffee or sweet tea

They work beautifully on dessert platters and holiday trays.

Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions

Store cooled crescents in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. They can be frozen for up to 2 months and reheated briefly before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Pecan Pie Crescents ahead of time?

Yes. They can be baked a day in advance and gently reheated.

Can I use puff pastry instead of crescent dough?

Yes, but baking time and texture will differ slightly.

Are these very sweet?

They are rich and sweet, similar to traditional pecan pie, balanced by flaky dough.

Do they need to be refrigerated?

Only for longer storage or in warm environments.

Why These Crescents Are So Popular

Pecan Pie Crescents are popular because they deliver classic Southern flavor in a modern, convenient form. They are easy, adaptable, and consistently impressive, making them a go-to recipe for holidays and gatherings.

Final Thoughts

Pecan Pie Crescents are the perfect fusion of tradition and convenience. With flaky layers, gooey pecan filling, and irresistible aroma, they offer all the comfort of pecan pie with a fraction of the effort.

If you love Southern desserts but want something quick, portable, and guaranteed to please, Pecan Pie Crescents deserve a spot in your baking rotation.

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