Buttery Crescent Rolls with Pecan Filling

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Indulge in these delightful Buttery Crescent Rolls filled with a rich pecan mixture, perfect for breakfast or as a sweet treat any time of the day.

Evelyn Parker

Created by

Evelyn Parker

Last updated on 2025-12-20T23:15:48.338Z

These Buttery Crescent Rolls with Pecan Filling are a family favorite that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. The flaky, buttery exterior perfectly complements the sweet and nutty filling, making them irresistible!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Flaky and buttery texture that melts in your mouth
  • Sweet pecan filling adds a delightful crunch
  • Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack

The Perfect Addition to Any Meal

These Buttery Crescent Rolls with Pecan Filling are not just a treat for your taste buds; they're a versatile addition to any meal. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, preparing a cozy family breakfast, or simply indulging in a sweet afternoon snack, these rolls are sure to impress. Their flaky texture and rich flavor make them a delightful choice for any occasion.

Imagine waking up to the warm aroma of freshly baked rolls wafting through your kitchen. The anticipation of that first bite, where the buttery exterior gives way to the crunchy pecan filling, is a moment to cherish. These rolls are more than just food; they’re an experience that brings people together and creates lasting memories around the table.

Simple Yet Elegant

One of the best things about these Buttery Crescent Rolls is their simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that feels luxurious and special. The combination of all-purpose flour, butter, and milk creates a soft dough that is easy to work with, while the pecan filling provides a sweet and satisfying crunch that elevates the entire recipe.

Even if you're a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is approachable and forgiving. The steps are straightforward, allowing you to focus on the joy of baking rather than feeling overwhelmed. Plus, the end result is an impressive batch of rolls that look and taste as if they came from a professional bakery.

Customization Options

One of the wonderful aspects of baking is the ability to customize recipes to suit your preferences. While the pecan filling is a delicious choice, feel free to experiment with other nuts or even add chocolate chips for a richer flavor. Walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts can bring their own unique twist to these rolls, making them even more delightful.

You can also adjust the sweetness of the filling to your liking. If you prefer a less sweet treat, simply reduce the amount of brown sugar, or try adding a pinch of sea salt to enhance the flavors. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility, allowing you to create a version that’s perfect for your taste.

Ingredients

For the Rolls

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1 large egg

For the Pecan Filling

  • 1 cup pecans, chopped
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Make sure to gather all your ingredients before starting!

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a small bowl, mix warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and softened butter.

Pour in the yeast mixture and egg, mixing until a dough forms.

Knead and Rise

Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth. Place it in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Make the Pecan Filling

In a medium bowl, combine chopped pecans, brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter. Mix until well combined.

Shape the Rolls

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough into a large circle and cut it into 12 wedges. Place a spoonful of the pecan filling on the wider end of each wedge and roll it up towards the tip.

Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until golden brown. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy your freshly baked rolls warm or at room temperature!

Serving Suggestions

These Buttery Crescent Rolls with Pecan Filling are perfect on their own, but they can also be paired with various accompaniments. Serve them with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for an extra touch of sweetness. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can turn these rolls into a decadent dessert that everyone will love.

For a more savory twist, consider serving these rolls alongside a cheese platter or charcuterie board. The buttery, flaky texture complements a variety of cheeses and cured meats, making them a delightful addition to any gathering.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have any leftover rolls, storing them properly is essential to maintain their deliciousness. Allow the rolls to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerated for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy your leftover rolls, simply reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. This will help restore their flaky texture and buttery flavor, making them taste freshly baked.

Why Baking is Therapeutic

Baking can be a therapeutic activity, providing a sense of accomplishment and joy. The process of measuring ingredients, kneading dough, and watching your creation rise in the oven can be incredibly satisfying. It allows you to disconnect from the stresses of daily life and focus on the simple pleasure of creating something delicious.

Moreover, sharing your baked goods with friends and family fosters connections and creates moments of happiness. Whether it's a casual breakfast or a festive gathering, these Buttery Crescent Rolls with Pecan Filling are sure to bring smiles and warmth to your home.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of nut?

Yes, you can substitute the pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different flavor.

→ How should I store leftover rolls?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

→ Can I freeze the rolls?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked rolls. Just thaw and let them rise before baking.

→ What can I serve with the rolls?

These rolls pair beautifully with coffee, tea, or even a light fruit salad.

Buttery Crescent Rolls with Pecan Filling

Indulge in these delightful Buttery Crescent Rolls filled with a rich pecan mixture, perfect for breakfast or as a sweet treat any time of the day.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration15 minutes
Overall Time35 minutes

Created by: Evelyn Parker

Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 12 rolls

What You'll Need

For the Rolls

  1. 2 cups all-purpose flour
  2. 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  3. 1/4 cup sugar
  4. 1/2 teaspoon salt
  5. 1/2 cup milk
  6. 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
  7. 1 large egg

For the Pecan Filling

  1. 1 cup pecans, chopped
  2. 1/2 cup brown sugar
  3. 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  4. 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a small bowl, mix warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and softened butter. Pour in the yeast mixture and egg, mixing until a dough forms.

Step 02

Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth. Place it in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 03

In a medium bowl, combine chopped pecans, brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter. Mix until well combined.

Step 04

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough into a large circle and cut it into 12 wedges. Place a spoonful of the pecan filling on the wider end of each wedge and roll it up towards the tip. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 05

Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until golden brown. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 250 kcal
  • Total Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Cholesterol: 35mg
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 10g
  • Protein: 3g