Irresistible Pecan Pie Crescents – A Sweet Twist on a Classic Dessert

When it comes to desserts that strike the perfect balance between indulgent, easy, and crowd-pleasing, few recipes beat Pecan Pie Crescents. Imagine all the warm, nutty, caramel-like flavors of a classic pecan pie wrapped inside a golden, buttery crescent roll—simple to prepare yet impressive enough to serve at holiday dinners, bake sales, or casual get-togethers. If you’ve been searching for a recipe that captures Southern charm in bite-sized form, these pecan crescents are the treat you’ll want on repeat.

Growing up, pecan pie was always a staple at family gatherings, especially during the holidays. My grandmother would bake it from scratch, and the sweet aroma of toasted pecans, caramelized sugar, and buttery crust filled the kitchen. Today, I like to recreate those flavors in easier, more modern ways for my own family—like these crescent rolls stuffed with pecan pie filling. They’re quick, beginner-friendly, and deliver the same nostalgic taste in a fun handheld form.

If you enjoy cozy desserts like my Easy Cheeseburger Pasta Skillet or No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies, you’ll absolutely fall in love with this one.

Why You’ll Love These Pecan Pie Crescents

These delightful rolls are a dream for busy bakers who want maximum flavor with minimal fuss.

• Simple ingredients – No need for complicated baking supplies; just refrigerated crescent dough, pecans, and pantry staples.
• Perfect holiday dessert – A great addition to Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any celebration.
• Handheld convenience – Unlike traditional pies, these rolls are easy to grab and enjoy without a plate.
• Make-ahead friendly – You can prep the filling in advance, assemble the crescents later, and bake fresh when ready.
• Crowd pleaser – Kids and adults alike can’t resist the gooey pecan filling wrapped in a buttery crust.

Ingredients

For the Crescents

• 2 packages refrigerated crescent rolls
• Caramel sauce, for topping

For the Filling

• 1 cup chopped pecans
• ⅓ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup flour
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ cup butter, melted

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a medium bowl, mix the chopped pecans, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and melted butter until well combined. The mixture should be slightly sticky and fragrant, resembling the texture of pecan pie filling.

Step 2: Assemble the Crescents

Unroll the crescent dough and separate it into individual triangles. Place a spoonful of the pecan filling onto the wide end of each triangle, then carefully roll it up toward the pointed end, keeping the filling tucked inside.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

Arrange the crescents on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between them for expansion. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, or until the crescents are golden brown and puffed.

Step 4: Add the Finishing Touch

Once baked, drizzle warm caramel sauce over the crescents. This step adds a glossy finish and enhances that pecan pie flavor we all love. Allow them to cool slightly before serving, as the filling will be hot.

Pro Tips for the Best Pecan Pie Crescents

• Toast the pecans beforehand for deeper, nuttier flavor.
• Don’t overfill the crescents—too much filling may cause leakage during baking.
• Serve warm for the gooey, pie-like texture, or at room temperature for a firmer bite.
• Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
• Caramel or chocolate drizzle takes these crescents to the next level.

Variations

• Chocolate Pecan Crescents – Add mini chocolate chips to the filling.
• Maple Twist – Replace the brown sugar with maple syrup for a richer sweetness.
• Nut-Free Version – Use sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a similar crunch.
• Cinnamon Sugar Crescents – Skip the pecans and fill with cinnamon sugar for a kid-friendly treat.
• Savory Option – Try cream cheese and herbs for a non-sweet alternative.

Serving Suggestions

These pecan pie crescents shine on their own, but you can make them part of a bigger spread. Serve them with vanilla ice cream, alongside a hot cup of coffee, or as part of a holiday dessert buffet. They also make wonderful edible gifts—just wrap them in parchment paper, tie with a ribbon, and share with friends and neighbors.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Room Temperature – Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerator – Keep for 4–5 days, reheating in the oven for the best texture.
• Freezer – Freeze baked crescents for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen at 325°F until warmed through.
• Make-Ahead – Prepare the filling a day in advance and assemble just before baking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these pecan crescents without caramel sauce?
Yes, the caramel is optional, but it adds a nice finishing touch.

Can I use homemade crescent dough instead of store-bought?
Absolutely. Homemade dough works beautifully, but store-bought saves time.

Do I need to chop the pecans finely?
Chopping them small helps the filling stay together and prevents tearing the dough.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, this recipe doubles easily—just make sure to bake in batches.

Can I use walnuts instead of pecans?
Yes, walnuts are a great substitute and add a slightly different flavor.

Are these best served warm or cold?
They’re delicious both ways, but most people prefer them warm.

Nutrition Facts (Per Crescent Roll, Approximate)

• Calories: 210
• Carbohydrates: 21g
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 13g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 12mg
• Sodium: 210mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 8g

Conclusion – The Perfect Holiday Bite

Pecan Pie Crescents are the perfect shortcut dessert—simple enough for weeknights, yet impressive enough for holiday tables. With their gooey pecan filling wrapped in flaky crescent dough and finished with caramel drizzle, they’re guaranteed to become a new family favorite. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want a sweet treat to enjoy with coffee, these little rolls will deliver comfort and joy in every bite.