Pumpkin Pie Crescents Recipe
If you’re in the mood for a treat that feels like autumn with every bite, Pumpkin Pie Crescents are exactly what you need. They combine flaky pastry, cozy pumpkin filling, and a hint of warming spices, all in a handheld package that’s as easy to eat as it is to share. When you want all the nostalgia of classic pumpkin pie but without the fuss, these crescents are your shortcut to seasonal bliss—they’re perfect for breakfast, a snack, or a sweet little dessert after dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every component in this recipe has a part to play in creating the irresistible Pumpkin Pie Crescents flavor and texture. Simple, familiar ingredients come together beautifully, turning a handful of pantry staples into something impossibly special.
- Refrigerated crescent rolls: These provide the fluffy, golden-brown pastry that makes the filling shine—plus, they’re a total time-saver!
- Canned pumpkin puree: The heart of the filling, bringing natural sweetness, color, and that unmistakable autumn flavor.
- Brown sugar: Adds a caramel-like sweetness that deepens the pumpkin flavor and keeps the filling moist.
- Pumpkin pie spice (or cinnamon + nutmeg): Lends warm, aromatic notes essential for capturing the magic of pumpkin pie.
- Vanilla extract: Just a splash rounds out the filling and makes everything taste a little extra special.
- Granulated sugar (optional topping): Sweetens the outside layer for a satisfying finish.
- Cinnamon (optional topping): Infuses each bite with a little extra warmth and spice.
- Melted butter (optional topping): Helps the cinnamon sugar adhere and adds a touch of richness to the crescents.
How to Make Pumpkin Pie Crescents
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Begin by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your Pumpkin Pie Crescents don’t stick, and the bottoms turn out perfectly crisp and golden.
Step 2: Mix the Pumpkin Filling
In a small mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract. Stir everything together until it’s silky smooth and uniform—this makes sure every bite will have the same deliciously spiced pumpkin flavor.
Step 3: Fill the Crescents
Unroll the crescent dough on a flat surface, and gently separate it into 8 triangles along the perforated lines. Place a heaping teaspoon (or two, if you dare) of that creamy pumpkin mixture at the wide end of each triangle. Don’t overfill—just enough to give you that pumpkin pie experience in every bite.
Step 4: Roll and Shape
Starting from the wide end, roll up each triangle towards the tip, tucking in the filling as you go. Gently curve each into a crescent shape and set them on your prepared baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each one for even baking.
Step 5: Add Topping (Optional)
If you want to take these Pumpkin Pie Crescents up a notch, brush them with melted butter, then sprinkle with a mix of granulated sugar and cinnamon. This creates an irresistible sweet-spiced crust that crackles with every bite.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Slide the tray into your preheated oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the crescents puff up and turn lightly golden brown. They’ll smell heavenly as they bake, giving that unmistakable pumpkin pie aroma to your whole kitchen.
Step 7: Cool (and Enjoy!)
Let your Pumpkin Pie Crescents cool for a few minutes so you don’t burn your tongue—but they’re definitely best eaten warm, when the pastry is flaky and the filling gooey. For an extra treat, drizzle with maple glaze or a little extra cinnamon sugar to serve.
How to Serve Pumpkin Pie Crescents
Garnishes
Top your crescents with a dusting of powdered sugar, a swirl of whipped cream, or a drizzle of maple glaze for extra flourish. Even a few candied pecans can make these Pumpkin Pie Crescents feel ultra-fancy when serving to family and friends.
Side Dishes
Pair your Pumpkin Pie Crescents with coffee, chai latte, or a mug of warm apple cider for a cozy fall breakfast or snack. For dessert, serve alongside vanilla ice cream or fresh fruit to create a full, balanced treat.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to get festive, serve the crescents on a rustic wooden platter with cinnamon sticks and mini pumpkins. Or turn them into part of a brunch spread, tucked among other pastries and fruit for a shareable, finger-food approach.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you manage to have any Pumpkin Pie Crescents left (they disappear quickly!), keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for 1–2 days. For longer freshness, pop them in the fridge, where they’ll stay soft and flavorful for up to 4 days.
Freezing
These crescents freeze beautifully! Place cooled crescents in a freezer-safe bag or container, layering with parchment to prevent sticking. They’ll stay delicious for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge whenever the craving hits.
Reheating
To restore the flaky, fresh-from-the-oven texture, reheat your Pumpkin Pie Crescents in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes. The microwave works in a pinch, but the pastry will be softer rather than crisp.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pumpkin puree instead of canned?
Absolutely! Just be sure to drain your homemade puree really well—excess moisture can make the filling runny and harder to work with.
Do I need to use pumpkin pie spice, or can I substitute?
If you don’t have pumpkin pie spice, a mix of cinnamon and nutmeg will still yield those classic Pumpkin Pie Crescents flavors. Add a pinch of ginger or allspice if you have them for extra depth.
What’s the best way to prevent the filling from leaking out?
Keep the filling towards the base and don’t overfill. Rolling tightly and pinching the dough edges shut can also help keep that luscious pumpkin filling sealed inside.
Can I make Pumpkin Pie Crescents dairy-free or vegan?
Yes! Look for dairy-free crescent dough (many are accidentally vegan), use plant-based butter, and ensure your brown sugar is vegan to suit all dietary needs.
How do I make a glaze for drizzling?
Mix powdered sugar with a splash of maple syrup or milk (dairy or non-dairy) until smooth, then drizzle over the cooled crescents for a sweet, shiny finish.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend Pumpkin Pie Crescents enough—they’re quick, satisfying, and filled with cozy fall charm. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just because, these little crescents have a way of making any moment taste a little sweeter. Give them a try, and watch them disappear faster than you can say “just one more!”
