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Perfect Crescent Rolls Recipe with Pecan Filling

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Flaky, buttery crescent rolls filled with a sweet, nutty pecan filling—perfect for holiday brunches or cozy weekends.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
  • 1/4 cup warm water (approximately 110°F/43°C)
  • 3/4 cup warm milk (whole milk works best)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
  • 1 cup pecans, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 1 tbsp water

Instructions

  1. Dissolve yeast in warm water in a small bowl and let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
  2. In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine warm milk, sugar, and melted butter. Stir to combine.
  3. Add salt, egg, and yeast mixture. Mix well.
  4. Gradually add flour, one cup at a time, mixing after each addition. Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Sprinkle extra flour if the dough feels sticky.
  5. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1-1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
  6. Prepare the pecan filling by mixing pecans, brown sugar, butter, cinnamon, and vanilla extract in a medium bowl. Set aside.
  7. Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to a floured surface. Divide the dough in half.
  8. Roll out one half into a large circle, about 12 inches in diameter. Spread half of the pecan filling evenly over the surface.
  9. Slice the circle into 12 equal wedges using a sharp knife or pizza cutter.
  10. Roll each wedge tightly from the wide end to the pointed end to form crescent rolls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space in between.
  11. Repeat the process with the other half of the dough and filling.
  12. Cover the rolls with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
  13. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  14. Whisk together the beaten egg and water in a small bowl. Lightly brush the mixture over the rolls.
  15. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and fragrant.
  16. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving warm.

Notes

[‘Proof your yeast to ensure it is active.’, ‘Avoid over-kneading the dough to keep the rolls tender.’, ‘Let the dough rise in a warm environment for best results.’, ‘Roll the dough evenly for uniform rolls.’, ‘Brushing the rolls with egg wash gives them a golden color and sheen.’, ‘Use fresh pecans for the best flavor.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: crescent rolls, pecan filling, holiday brunch, homemade bread, sweet rolls