Introduction

If you’ve ever wished pecan pie could be a little more… bite-sized and buttery, then you’re in for a treat. These Pecan Pie Crescents combine everything you love about a classic pecan pie — gooey brown sugar filling, toasty pecans, warm vanilla — and tuck it into golden, flaky crescent rolls. It’s the shortcut dessert you didn’t know you needed, and it’s absolutely perfect for the holidays.

Whether you’re a beginner baker or just short on time, this recipe is friendly, flexible, and practically foolproof. You don’t need a fancy pie dish or even a rolling pin. Just a can of crescent dough, a handful of pantry staples, and a few minutes of your time. These are ideal for Thanksgiving, Christmas brunch, or even a last-minute potluck dessert — and trust me, people will ask for the recipe.

You’ll find these crescents come out golden on the outside, with a sweet, nutty filling that melts in your mouth. There’s even an optional glaze you can drizzle on top for that extra touch of sweetness. Let’s dive into why this recipe deserves a spot in your holiday baking lineup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Key Benefits

These Pecan Pie Crescents check all the right boxes. They’re incredibly easy to make — no pie crusts to fuss with, no long bake times. Just a few simple ingredients wrapped up in buttery crescent dough. You get all the flavor of traditional pecan pie with a fraction of the effort.

They’re also quick. From prep to plate in under 30 minutes. And because they’re made in individual portions, they’re easy to share, serve, and store.

Most importantly, they’re absolutely delicious. The filling caramelizes slightly as it bakes, and the crescent rolls turn golden and crisp on the outside. Every bite has that comforting, rich pecan pie taste.

Suitable For

These crescents are made for busy bakers, holiday hosts, and anyone who wants something cozy without the stress. They’re perfect for Thanksgiving dessert trays, Christmas morning brunch, or even casual weeknight treats. Kids can help roll them up, and they reheat beautifully if you want to make them ahead.

Ingredients for Pecan Pie Crescents

Core Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Refrigerated crescent roll dough – One 8 oz. can (usually 8 triangles)

• Chopped pecans – Toasted or raw, your call

• Brown sugar – Light or dark works; dark gives a deeper molasses flavor

• Corn syrup – Either light or dark

• Vanilla extract – For that cozy flavor note

• Melted butter – Helps the filling come together

• Cinnamon (optional) – Adds a subtle warmth

• Pinch of salt – To balance the sweetness

Substitutions and Tips

• No corn syrup? Try maple syrup or honey for a different twist.

• Pecans not your thing? Chopped walnuts or almonds work well too.

• Vegan-friendly? Use plant-based butter and crescent dough labeled vegan.

• Low on brown sugar? Mix granulated sugar with a little molasses as a quick substitute.

The filling should be sticky and thick — if it looks too runny, let it sit for a minute or two while the sugar absorbs.

Best Crescent Dough for Pecan Pie Crescents 

When it comes to crescent dough, the classic refrigerated can (like Pillsbury) is your best bet. It’s buttery, easy to work with, and bakes up beautifully golden.

You want dough that’s fresh and pliable — not sticky or dry. If you’re buying in advance, keep it in the fridge and use before the expiration date. For an extra indulgent version, some brands even offer buttery or flaky-style crescent rolls.

Homemade crescent dough is always an option if you’re up for it, but the store-bought kind keeps this recipe stress-free and still incredibly delicious.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need  

Must-Have Tools

• Baking sheet – A standard size is fine

• Parchment paper – Helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier

• Mixing bowl – For combining the filling

• Spoon or spatula – To stir and scoop the filling

Nice-to-Have Tools

• Pastry brush – For an optional egg wash if you want a shinier finish

• Cooling rack – Helps the crescents cool evenly without getting soggy underneath

• Cookie scoop – If you want perfectly portioned filling

No special tools required — just a few basics you likely already have in your kitchen.

How to Make Pecan Pie Crescents 

Let’s walk through this step-by-step so you can bake your Pecan Pie Crescents with confidence. You don’t need any fancy equipment or advanced skills—just a little prep and a love of cozy, nutty desserts.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This keeps the crescents from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

In a mixing bowl, stir together your chopped pecans, brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, vanilla extract, a pinch of salt, and cinnamon if you’re using it. The mixture should be thick and sticky. If it seems too thin, let it sit for a minute to thicken slightly. The sugar and syrup will absorb some of the moisture and become easier to work with.

Step 3: Prepare the Crescent Dough

Unroll the crescent dough and separate it into eight triangles. Work on a clean surface or a lightly floured countertop to prevent sticking. No need to roll it out or reshape—it’s ready to go straight from the can.

Step 4: Add the Filling and Roll

Spoon about one tablespoon of the pecan mixture onto the wide end of each triangle. Don’t overfill—too much filling will ooze out as it bakes. Then, gently roll each one from the wide end toward the tip, tucking in the sides as you go to keep the filling from escaping.

Step 5: Bake

Place the crescents on your prepared baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each one. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the bottoms are slightly crisp. The sugar filling might bubble out a little—that’s totally normal.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a rack. This helps the filling set up so it doesn’t burn your tongue when you take that first bite.

Optional Glaze: Mix ¼ cup powdered sugar with 1 to 2 teaspoons of milk and drizzle over the warm crescents for an extra touch of sweetness. Totally optional, but highly recommended.

Tips for Success  

• Measure carefully: A heaping tablespoon of filling per crescent is perfect. Too much and it’ll spill out while baking.

• Line your baking sheet: Parchment or a silicone mat will catch any melted sugar that escapes.

• Seal well: Tuck and pinch the dough to help keep everything inside.

• Want extra crispness? Brush a little egg wash on top before baking for that golden, bakery-style finish.

• Glaze after cooling: If you’re using the powdered sugar glaze, wait until the crescents are just warm—not hot—so the glaze doesn’t melt right off.

These little pies can be made ahead of time, too. Bake them earlier in the day and warm them slightly in the oven before serving. They’re especially tasty served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a hot mug of coffee.

How to Store Pecan Pie Crescents 

At Room Temperature

Once cooled completely, store the crescents in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for about two days. They’re best enjoyed the same day, but still tasty the next morning.

In the Refrigerator

Want them to last a little longer? Store them in the fridge for up to five days. Just warm them in a low oven (around 300°F) for a few minutes to bring back that fresh-baked texture.

Freezing Tips

These freeze surprisingly well. You can either freeze them before baking (assembled and unbaked) or after baking.

• Unbaked: Assemble the crescents, place them on a tray to freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen—just add a couple extra minutes.

• Baked: Cool completely, wrap individually in foil or plastic wrap, and store in a freezer bag. Reheat in the oven until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

Can I use homemade crescent dough?

Absolutely. If you have a go-to recipe or prefer scratch-made dough, go for it. Just make sure you cut the dough into triangles and roll it thin enough so the filling doesn’t get lost in the layers.

Can I add chocolate chips?

Yes—and they’re delicious with the pecan filling. Just sprinkle a few mini chocolate chips over the filling before rolling them up. The chocolate melts into the brown sugar mixture for a gooey, sweet surprise.

How do I make them in muffin tins as pecan pie bites?

Instead of rolling the dough, press small pieces of crescent dough into the cups of a greased mini muffin tin. Add a spoonful of filling into each cup and bake for 12 to 15 minutes until bubbly and golden. They’ll pop out easily once cooled and make perfect bite-sized treats.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, they’re great for prepping ahead. Bake and store them at room temperature or in the fridge, then warm before serving. Or, assemble them and freeze unbaked, then bake fresh when ready.

Related Recipes  

If you loved this Pecan Pie Crescents recipe, you might also enjoy these festive sweets:

• Peach Dump Cake: A cozy, fruity dessert that bakes in one pan.

• Strawberry Dump Cake: Just as easy, with a berry twist.

• Lemon Raspberry Cupcakes: Light and zesty with sweet raspberry flavor.

• Cinnamon Rolls Apple Pie Filling Recipe: Another crescent-style treat filled with warm apple goodness.

• Easy Divinity Candy Recipe: Sweet, airy, and perfect for the holidays.

• Peach Pie Cinnamon Rolls: Another twist on fruit + dough, with cozy summer flavors.

Conclusion

There’s something about these Pecan Pie Crescents that makes them feel special, even though they’re incredibly easy to whip up. With their warm, nutty filling and flaky golden crust, they’re the kind of treat people reach for first—and then ask for seconds.

They’re perfect for sharing during the holidays, but don’t be surprised if they become a year-round favorite. Give them a try, and feel free to make them your own with chocolate, glaze, or different nuts.

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