Prepare to embark on a delectable journey with our Pecan Cream Cheese Rolls recipe. These heavenly treats combine the buttery richness of crescent roll dough with the creamy indulgence of cream cheese, all complemented by the sweet crunch of chopped pecans and a hint of cinnamon. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these rolls are guaranteed to delight your taste buds and leave you craving more. Join us as we dive into the recipe and uncover the secrets to creating these irresistible pastries that are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- Refrigerated Crescent Roll Dough: 1 can (usually contains 8 rolls)
- Cream Cheese: 8 oz (softened)
- Sugar: 1/2 cup
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
- Chopped Pecans: 1/2 cup
- Butter: 2 tablespoons (melted)
- Ground Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon
- Powdered Sugar: For dusting (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- Prepare Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Roll Out Dough: Unroll the crescent roll dough onto a clean surface. Separate the dough into triangles along the perforated lines.
- Spread Filling: Spread a generous spoonful of the cream cheese mixture onto each triangle of dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Sprinkle Pecans: Sprinkle chopped pecans evenly over the cream cheese filling on each triangle.
- Roll Up: Starting from the wide end, roll up each triangle of dough to form a crescent shape.
- Arrange in Baking Dish: Place the rolled-up crescents in the prepared baking dish, with the pointed ends tucked underneath.
- Brush with Butter: In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter and ground cinnamon. Brush the tops of the rolls with the cinnamon butter mixture.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and puffed up.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the Pecan Cream Cheese Rolls to cool slightly before serving. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
Cook Notes:
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature to ensure a smooth and creamy filling.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar in the filling according to your taste preferences. You can add more or less sugar to suit your desired level of sweetness.
- For added flavor, you can sprinkle a pinch of ground nutmeg or cloves into the cream cheese filling.
Variations:
- Fruit Infusion: Add a layer of fruit preserves or fresh fruit slices on top of the cream cheese filling before rolling up the dough for a fruity twist.
- Chocolate Indulgence: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate over the rolls before baking for a decadent chocolatey treat.
- Savory Option: Replace the sugar with savory ingredients like grated cheese, cooked bacon bits, and chopped herbs for a savory twist on these rolls.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto-Friendly: Replace the crescent roll dough with a low-carb alternative made from almond flour or coconut flour. Use a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol or stevia instead of sugar in the cream cheese filling.
- Low-Carb Option: Reduce the amount of sugar in the filling or omit it altogether. You can also use a nut-based crust or wrap the cream cheese filling in thinly sliced zucchini or eggplant for a low-carb alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Q: Can I make these rolls ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the rolls ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator overnight. Simply cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to bake. Allow the rolls to come to room temperature before baking as directed.
Q: Can I freeze these rolls? A: Absolutely! Once baked and cooled, you can freeze the Pecan Cream Cheese Rolls in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven or microwave.
Q: Can I use different nuts instead of pecans? A: Yes, you can substitute chopped walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts for the pecans if desired. Feel free to experiment with your favorite nuts to create your own unique flavor combination.
Conclusion: Indulge in the irresistible allure of our Pecan Cream Cheese Rolls, a delightful treat that combines buttery crescent roll dough, creamy cream cheese filling, and crunchy pecans for a flavor sensation like no other. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast indulgence, a brunch centerpiece, or a sweet dessert, these rolls are sure to captivate your taste buds and leave you longing for more.
So, gather your ingredients and treat yourself to the ultimate pastry experience with our Pecan Cream Cheese Rolls. With each heavenly bite, savor the perfect balance of flavors and textures that make these rolls a true delight for any occasion!
