If you’re searching for a show-stopping treat that’s warm, gooey, and takes minimal effort, Crescent Caramel Rolls will become your new go-to. These delightful rolls are swirled with cinnamon sugar, drenched in buttery caramel, and finished with a shower of toasty pecans for a true crowd-pleaser. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this recipe transforms simple pantry staples into a decadent pull-apart masterpiece. Trust me, after one bite, you’ll want to make Crescent Caramel Rolls part of every special occasion (and a few ordinary mornings, too!).
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is all about making the most of classic ingredients, letting each one shine for irresistible flavor and texture. You don’t need anything fancy, just a handful of essentials that come together in the most magical way.
- Refrigerated crescent roll dough (2 cans, 8 oz each): These make things easy, creating pillowy, flaky layers without any fuss.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup): Rich and creamy, butter forms the base of your gooey caramel sauce.
- Brown sugar (1/2 cup, packed): Adds a deep, molasses sweetness that’s absolutely perfect for caramel.
- Corn syrup or maple syrup (2 tablespoons): This gives your sauce its signature sticky texture and shine—choose maple for extra flavor depth.
- Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon): Just a splash brings lovely warmth to the caramel mixture.
- Chopped pecans (1/2 cup, optional): For irresistible crunch and a nutty surprise in every bite—totally optional, but highly recommended!
- Granulated sugar (1/3 cup): Works with the cinnamon to make a classic, sweet filling for your rolls.
- Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Fragrant and cozy, cinnamon brings the flavor of classic breakfast pastries home.
How to Make Crescent Caramel Rolls
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pan and Preheat
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. While it’s warming up, generously grease a 9-inch round baking dish or cake pan. You want a little insurance to help those gorgeous rolls release—after all, the gooey caramel is the star!
Step 2: Make the Caramel Sauce
In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add in the brown sugar and your choice of corn syrup or maple syrup. Stir constantly until the mixture is smooth, bubbling gently, and smells like heaven. Take it off the heat, then stir in the vanilla extract for extra depth.
Step 3: Layer the Caramel and Pecans
Pour your freshly made caramel sauce into the bottom of your prepared pan, spreading it out evenly. If you’re using pecans, sprinkle them right on top of the caramel—you’ll love the crunch they add to each roll.
Step 4: Prepare the Cinnamon-Sugar Mixture
Mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl. This classic combo is what gives Crescent Caramel Rolls their irresistible swirl and aromatic sweetness.
Step 5: Shape the Crescent Rolls
Open the crescent roll cans and unroll the dough. Gently separate into triangles. Sprinkle each triangle generously with the cinnamon-sugar mixture, then, starting at the widest edge, roll up each triangle into a crescent shape. Place them seam-side down on top of the caramel layer in your pan for maximum sticky goodness when you flip them out later.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Pop the pan into the hot oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the Crescent Caramel Rolls are puffed up and beautifully golden brown. The aroma filling your kitchen is the very definition of comfort.
Step 7: Invert and Serve
Once baked, let the rolls cool in the pan for 3 to 5 minutes—just enough time for the caramel to set slightly but not harden. Then, carefully invert the pan onto a serving plate. Watch as the glossy caramel and pecans cascade down over the warm rolls. Serve immediately while they’re ooey gooey perfection!
How to Serve Crescent Caramel Rolls
Garnishes
Sometimes, a shower of extra chopped pecans or even a light dusting of powdered sugar makes these rolls feel like a bakery treat. If you like a little flair, drizzle with more maple syrup to highlight their caramel richness. No matter what, serve them warm so every bite is as soft and melty as possible!
Side Dishes
Crescent Caramel Rolls pair beautifully with a simple fruit salad to balance their sweetness, or alongside a steaming mug of coffee or tea. They’re also right at home with classic breakfast fare—think fluffy scrambled eggs, or a slice of savory quiche for a brunch spread that everyone will rave about.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings, arrange the rolls in a spiral on a pretty plate and tuck in a few fresh mint leaves or edible flowers. For a fun twist, serve each one in a cupcake liner for easy grab-and-go snacking. And if you’re feeling extra special, offer a warm caramel sauce on the side for extra dipping!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (lucky you!), store cooled Crescent Caramel Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one day, or in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld, and they’ll still taste wonderful, especially when rewarmed.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap individual rolls or the whole batch tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Store for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for the best texture. This makes Crescent Caramel Rolls a terrific make-ahead option for busy mornings or unexpected guests.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat Crescent Caramel Rolls gently in the microwave for 10–15 seconds, or in a low oven (about 300°F) for 5–10 minutes. A light rewarm will revive that glorious caramel sheen without drying out the rolls.
FAQs
Can I make Crescent Caramel Rolls the night before?
Absolutely! Assemble the rolls up to the point of baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let the dish sit at room temperature while the oven preheats, then bake as directed for a stress-free, spectacular breakfast.
What if I don’t have pecans?
No worries—these rolls are just as delicious without nuts, or you can try chopped walnuts or almonds for a different twist. The caramel and cinnamon stand strong all on their own!
Can I use homemade crescent roll dough?
Definitely! If you love making bread from scratch, swap in your favorite homemade crescent dough. Just roll, fill, and bake as described. The result will be even more impressive and bakery-worthy.
How do I keep the rolls from sticking to the pan?
Greasing the baking dish thoroughly is key, but using parchment paper on the bottom can also help. Just remember to invert while the caramel is still warm and soft for the cleanest release.
Is it possible to double this recipe?
Yes! For a big family brunch or party, simply use a larger baking pan and double the ingredients. Keep an eye on your bake time—you might need a few more minutes for a larger batch.
Final Thoughts
If you love recipes that deliver maximum wow factor with minimal effort, there’s nothing better than serving up Crescent Caramel Rolls fresh from your oven. Give them a try—you’ll be amazed how such simple ingredients can create a centerpiece-worthy treat that brings pure joy to any table!
Print
Crescent Caramel Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these decadent Crescent Caramel Rolls that are perfect for breakfast or dessert. Buttery crescent rolls filled with a sweet caramel sauce and pecans, these sticky buns are a delightful treat.
Ingredients
Caramel Sauce:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 2 tablespoons corn syrup or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Crescent Rolls:
- 2 cans (8 oz each) refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F and grease a 9-inch round baking dish or cake pan.
- Make the caramel sauce: Melt the butter with brown sugar and corn syrup in a saucepan until smooth. Remove from heat, add vanilla extract, and pour into the baking dish.
- Prepare the rolls: Mix granulated sugar and cinnamon. Roll out the crescent dough, sprinkle with cinnamon-sugar, and roll into crescents.
- Bake: Place the rolls over the caramel in the dish and bake for 18–22 minutes until golden.
- Serve: Invert the pan onto a plate after cooling slightly to release the rolls. Serve warm.
Notes
- Enhance the caramel sauce with a pinch of salt for added flavor.
- Best served fresh, reheat gently in the microwave if needed.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 270mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
