Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these pecan cream cheese rolls! They are the ultimate blend of sweet and nutty, with a creamy filling that just melts in your mouth. I still remember the first time I baked these, the whole house filled with that warm, inviting aroma of buttery dough and cinnamon. It felt like a big hug! They’re perfect for breakfast when you want something a little special or as a sweet treat after dinner. Seriously, every time I make them, I can’t help but sneak a bite (or two) while they’re still warm. Trust me, once you try these rolls, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen, too. You won’t be able to resist sharing them with friends and family—if you can bear to part with them, that is!
Ingredients for Pecan Cream Cheese Rolls
- 1 cup pecans, chopped – These will add that delightful crunch and nutty flavor. You can toast them lightly for an extra depth of flavor if you like!
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened – Make sure it’s soft so it blends easily into a creamy filling. I usually take it out of the fridge an hour before I start.
- 1/2 cup sugar – This gives the filling its sweetness. You can adjust a bit if you prefer it less sweet.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – Adds a lovely warmth and enhances the overall flavor. You won’t regret this step!
- 1 package crescent roll dough – This is the magical part that makes everything come together easily. You can use regular or reduced-fat, whichever you prefer.
- 1/4 cup butter, melted – This will be drizzled on top for that golden, buttery finish. Don’t skimp on this; it makes all the difference!
- 1 tsp cinnamon – Perfect for giving these rolls that cozy, warm flavor that pairs so well with the pecans and cream cheese.
How to Prepare Pecan Cream Cheese Rolls
Preheat and Prepare the Oven
First things first, let’s get that oven ready! Preheating is super important because it ensures your rolls bake evenly. Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and let it heat up while you prep the rest. This will also fill your kitchen with that lovely warmth, making the anticipation even sweeter!
Mix the Filling
Now, grab a medium-sized bowl and toss in your softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract. Using a hand mixer or a sturdy spatula, mix everything together until it’s nice and smooth—think fluffy and creamy! You want that filling to be spreadable but still thick enough to hold its shape. Trust me, the texture you aim for here makes all the difference when you bite into those rolls!
Assemble the Rolls
Next up, let’s roll out that dough! Unwrap your crescent roll dough and lay it flat on a clean surface. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the dough, making sure to cover every nook and cranny. Then, sprinkle those chopped pecans all over the top—don’t hold back! Now, starting from one end, carefully roll the dough tightly into a log. Once you’ve got a nice roll, slice it into about 12 equal pieces. Place those beautiful rolls in a greased baking dish, cut side up!
Bake the Rolls
Alright, we’re almost there! Drizzle that melted butter over the top of the rolls and sprinkle with cinnamon for that extra touch of cozy goodness. Pop them in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and you can smell that heavenly aroma wafting through your home. You’ll know they’re done when they’re puffed up and a lovely golden hue—don’t forget to let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy every sticky, sweet bite!
Tips for Success
- Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese is softened properly. If it’s too cold, it won’t mix smoothly, and you’ll end up with lumps in your filling.
- Don’t overmix: When you’re combining the cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla, just mix until smooth. Overmixing can lead to a denser filling!
- Be generous with the pecans: Don’t skimp on the chopped pecans! They add that wonderful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the cream cheese perfectly.
- Slice evenly: When cutting the rolled dough into pieces, try to make each slice about the same thickness. This ensures they bake evenly and you get that perfect roll every time!
- Keep an eye on baking time: Ovens can vary, so start checking your rolls a few minutes early. You want them golden brown and puffed, but not overbaked!
- Let them cool slightly: I know it’s tempting to dive in right away, but letting them cool for just a few minutes helps the filling set a bit, making each bite even better.
- Experiment with toppings: Feel free to add a drizzle of icing or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a little extra sweetness on top before serving!
Variations on Pecan Cream Cheese Rolls
Oh, the possibilities are endless with these pecan cream cheese rolls! If you’re like me and love to get creative in the kitchen, here are some fun ideas to switch things up:
- Walnut Wonder: Swap out the pecans for chopped walnuts. They’re just as delicious and have a slightly different flavor profile that you might love!
- Chocolate Delight: Add some mini chocolate chips to the cream cheese mixture for a rich and decadent twist. Who doesn’t love chocolate, right?
- Maple Syrup Drizzle: Instead of using sugar in the filling, try maple syrup for a unique sweetener. It adds a lovely, warm flavor that pairs perfectly with the cream cheese.
- Fruit Fusion: Toss in some fresh berries or chopped apples with the pecans for a fruity burst. Strawberries or blueberries would be especially delightful!
- Spiced Up: Experiment with adding pumpkin spice or ginger to the filling for a seasonal twist. It’s like a holiday party in your mouth!
- Nut-Free Option: If you’re looking to avoid nuts altogether, just leave them out! You can add a bit of shredded coconut for texture instead.
- Frosted Finish: Top the rolls with a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk after they’ve cooled. It adds a sweet touch that feels extra special!
Feel free to mix and match these ideas based on what you have on hand or what you’re craving. The best part of baking is making it your own, so don’t be shy—get experimenting! You might just discover your new favorite version of these rolls!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made a batch of these delicious pecan cream cheese rolls, and now you have some leftovers (if you can believe it!). No worries, I’ve got you covered on how to store them and keep that scrumptious flavor intact!
First up, to store your rolls, let them cool completely at room temperature. Once they’re cooled, pop them in an airtight container. This helps prevent them from drying out and keeps them fresh for up to 3 days. If you want them to last a bit longer, you can wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap and then place them in the freezer. They should be good for about 2 months that way!
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftover rolls, here’s how to reheat them:
- For individual rolls: Just pop one in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. Start with less time, as you don’t want them to get too hot or chewy!
- For several rolls: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the rolls on a baking sheet and cover them loosely with foil to prevent them from browning too much. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. This method keeps them nice and soft!
- For a delightful twist: After reheating, you can drizzle a little extra melted butter or even some icing over the top to make them feel fresh and indulgent again!
And there you have it! Now you can enjoy those pecan cream cheese rolls, even days after baking. They’ll still be a delightful treat, warm and gooey, and just as comforting as the first day!
Nutritional Information
Before you dive into these scrumptious pecan cream cheese rolls, here’s a quick note on nutrition! Keep in mind that the nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. The figures provided below are estimates, so they might not be 100% accurate for your version of the recipe. Always feel free to adjust based on your dietary needs and preferences!
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Enjoy these delicious rolls guilt-free, knowing you’re treating yourself to something that’s not just tasty, but also brings a touch of comfort and joy to your day!
FAQ Section
Can I use different nuts in the recipe?
Absolutely! If you have nut allergies or just want to switch things up, you can use different nuts like walnuts or almonds. They’ll still give you that lovely crunch and flavor. If you prefer to go nut-free, you can skip the nuts altogether or even use seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a bit of texture. Get creative and find what you love!
How do I know when the rolls are done?
Great question! You’ll know the rolls are done when they’re puffed up and a beautiful golden brown color. Give them a gentle poke—if they spring back slightly, they’re ready! Also, the edges should be slightly crispy, while the center remains soft and gooey. That perfect balance is what makes these rolls so irresistible!
Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can totally prep these rolls ahead of time! You can assemble them the night before and keep them covered in the fridge. Just remember to let them sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before baking. If you want to prepare them even further in advance, you can freeze the unbaked rolls. Just wrap them tightly and they’ll be good for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, pop them in the oven straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. It’s a great way to have a delicious treat ready in a pinch!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: These pecan cream cheese rolls come together in no time! With only a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious treat ready to enjoy in less than an hour.
- Delightful Flavor: The combination of creamy, sweet filling and crunchy pecans is simply irresistible. Plus, the warm cinnamon adds a cozy touch that makes every bite a joy!
- Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these rolls fit perfectly. They can be a comforting start to your day or a sweet ending to a meal.
- Easy to Customize: Feel free to experiment with different nuts, add chocolate, or even throw in some fruits for a twist. The options are endless, allowing you to create your own signature version!
- Perfect for Sharing: These rolls are a hit with family and friends! They’re easy to share and always impress at gatherings, making you the star of any occasion.
- Homemade Comfort: There’s something special about baking from scratch. The smell of these rolls in the oven will instantly make your home feel warm and inviting.
Pecan Cream Cheese Rolls: 5 Steps to Irresistible Bliss
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious pecan cream cheese rolls perfect for breakfast or dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 package crescent roll dough
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 tsp cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Roll out the crescent dough and spread the cream cheese mixture evenly.
- Sprinkle chopped pecans on top of the cream cheese.
- Roll the dough tightly and slice into rolls.
- Place rolls in a greased baking dish.
- Drizzle melted butter and sprinkle cinnamon over the rolls.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Can be served warm or at room temperature.
- Try adding chocolate chips for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Bakery
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: pecan cream cheese rolls
