Maple Pecan Crescent Cinnamon Twists Recipe

Quick & Crispy Maple Pecan Crescent Cinnamon Twists Recipe

Maple pecan crescent cinnamon twists represent a delightful fusion of sweet and nutty flavors that dance across your taste buds.

Soft, buttery crescents embrace a rich cinnamon filling, reinventing an ordinary pastry into an extraordinary treat.

Delicate layers intertwine with crisp pecans, creating a texture that promises pure indulgence.

Warm spices mingle with smooth maple undertones, elevating this pastry from simple to spectacular.

Bakers seeking a crowd-pleasing dessert will appreciate the elegant simplicity of these twisted delicacies.

Subtle nuances of maple and cinnamon weave through each bite, offering a comforting yet sophisticated experience.

Your weekend brunch or afternoon tea deserves these irresistible, golden-brown spirals.

Tips for Perfect Layers and Nutty Flavor

  • Seal Seams Carefully: Press crescent roll perforations firmly to prevent filling from leaking during baking, ensuring a perfect twisted shape.
  • Twist Technique: When creating spirals, twist dough strips gently but tightly to maintain an even, attractive cinnamon twist appearance.
  • Butter Brilliance: Brush melted butter generously across dough rectangles to enhance flavor and help pecan-sugar mixture adhere better.
  • Glaze Consistency Control: Adjust maple glaze thickness by adding milk or powdered sugar incrementally for the perfect drizzling texture.
  • Cooling Crucial: Allow twists to cool completely before glazing to prevent runny, transparent glaze and maintain a beautiful, crisp finish.

Best Way to Store and Reheat Crescent Twists

  • Refrigeration: Wrap the cinnamon twists individually in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain their fresh texture and flavor.
  • Reheating: Warm the twists in a preheated oven at 300°F for 5-7 minutes. This method helps restore their crispy exterior and soft interior. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the pastry soggy and tough.
  • Freezing Option: Freeze the unglazed twists in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven before adding a fresh drizzle of maple glaze just before serving.

What Drinks or Dishes Go with Cinnamon Twists

  • Brew Warm Coffee Companions: Pair these sweet twists with a rich, medium-roast coffee that complements the maple and pecan flavors. The coffee's robust notes will balance the pastry's sweetness, creating a delightful morning or afternoon treat.
  • Match Creamy Dairy Delights: Serve alongside a cold glass of whole milk or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. The creamy, smooth textures enhance the cinnamon and nutty undertones of the crescent twists.
  • Elevate with Dessert Wines: Enjoy a small glass of sweet dessert wine like Moscato or a light port. These wines provide a luxurious touch that harmonizes with the maple glaze and pecan richness, turning the twists into an elegant dessert experience.
  • Craft Nutty Beverage Blend: Whip up a homemade almond or hazelnut milk smoothie to echo the pecan flavors. This nutty drink will create a seamless flavor connection with the cinnamon twists' ingredients.

Sweet Variations to Try on Maple Pecan Twists

  • Nutty Chocolate Swirl: Replace pecans with chopped dark chocolate and add cocoa powder to the filling mixture for a rich, decadent version of the classic recipe.
  • Apple Cinnamon Crunch: Incorporate finely diced fresh apples into the filling and sprinkle with graham cracker crumbs for extra texture and warmth.
  • Almond Honey Drizzle: Swap pecans for sliced almonds and replace maple glaze with a honey-almond extract glaze, creating a lighter, nuttier profile.
  • Berry Cream Cheese Twist: Mix softened cream cheese with a touch of vanilla into the filling and add dried cranberries or blueberries for a fruity, tangy variation.

Why Maple Pecan Crescent Cinnamon Twists Are Sticky-Sweet Heaven

  • Indulge in Sweet Simplicity: These maple pecan crescent cinnamon twists combine easy-to-use crescent roll dough with classic baking techniques, making them perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
  • Texture Explosion: Enjoy the delightful contrast between crispy, golden-brown exterior and soft, buttery interior, complemented by crunchy pecan pieces that add exciting textural dimensions.
  • Flavor Symphony: Savor the harmonious blend of warm cinnamon, rich maple glaze, nutty pecans, and sweet sugars that create a mouthwatering dessert experience without complex ingredient lists or complicated preparation steps.
  • Quick Crowd-Pleaser: Whip up these impressive-looking twists in under 30 minutes, making them ideal for spontaneous gatherings, weekend brunches, or satisfying sudden sweet cravings with minimal effort.

What You’ll Need to Make Maple Pecan Cinnamon Twists

Pastry Base:
  • Crescent Roll Dough: Soft, pre-made dough that provides a flaky and light base for the twists, easy to unroll and shape.
Filling Ingredients:
  • Pecans, Brown Sugar, Granulated Sugar, Cinnamon: Classic sweet and nutty mixture that creates a rich, warm filling with deep caramel-like notes, best when pecans are freshly chopped.
Binding and Moisture Ingredients:
  • Butter: Melted butter helps seal the dough and adds rich, golden flavor to the twists.
Glaze Ingredients:
  • Powdered Sugar, Maple Extract, Milk or Heavy Cream: Smooth, sweet glaze that adds a luxurious maple flavor and glossy finish to the cinnamon twists, adjustable for desired consistency.
Preparation Accessories:
  • Cooking Spray or Parchment Paper: Non-stick surface solution for easy baking and cleanup.
  • Sharp Knife: Precise tool for cutting and shaping the dough.

How to Roll and Bake Maple Pecan Crescent Twists

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Crank the oven to 375°F. Grab a cookie sheet and give it a quick spray of cooking spray or lay down some parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Mix the Tasty Filling

In a small bowl, toss together:
  • Chopped pecans
  • Brown sugar
  • Granulated sugar
  • Cinnamon

Set this delicious mixture aside for later.

Step 3: Prepare the Dough

Unroll those crescent dough cans and split them into 8 rectangles. How? Press two crescent triangles together to make each rectangle. Pinch those seams tight so everything stays together!

Step 4: Create the Flavor Layers

Brush each dough rectangle with melted butter. Sprinkle a heaping tablespoon of the pecan-sugar mix over the buttery surface. Roll each rectangle from the long side, creating a tight cinnamon roll-style log. Seal those edges by pinching them closed.

Step 5: Twist and Shape

Grab a sharp knife and slice each roll in half lengthwise. Take those two strips and twist them around each other, creating a delightful spiral. Transfer these twisted beauties to your prepared cookie sheet. Repeat with remaining dough.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Pop the twists in the oven for 10-13 minutes. Look for puffy, golden-brown deliciousness. Let them chill on the cookie sheet for 10-15 minutes before adding the glaze.

Step 7: Whip Up the Maple Glaze

In a small bowl, combine:
  • Powdered sugar
  • Maple extract
  • Milk or heavy cream

Adjust the liquid or sugar to get your ideal glaze consistency.

Step 8: Drizzle and Serve

Generously drizzle the maple glaze over the cooled cinnamon twists. Grab a plate and enjoy your sweet creation!

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Maple Pecan Crescent Cinnamon Twists Recipe

Maple Pecan Crescent Cinnamon Twists Recipe


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4.6 from 12 reviews

  • Total Time: 28 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Maple pecan crescent cinnamon twists bring warmth from French-Canadian culinary traditions. Delicate pastry spirals combine rich maple syrup, toasted pecans, and classic cinnamon spice, offering you a delightful sweet treat that celebrates comfort and indulgence.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cans (8 ounces each) Pillsbury refrigerated crescent rolls
  • ½ cup finely chopped pecans

Spice and Sugar Mixture:

  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon

Topping and Glaze:

  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted
  • ½ cup powdered sugar
  • ¼ teaspoon maple extract
  • 13 tablespoons milk (or heavy cream)

Instructions

  1. Arrange the oven rack in the middle position and heat to 375°F (190°C). Coat a baking sheet with non-stick cooking spray or line with parchment paper.
  2. Create a filling mixture by thoroughly combining finely chopped pecans, dark brown sugar, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon in a mixing bowl. Set aside for later use.
  3. Carefully unroll the crescent roll packages and transform each can into 4 rectangular shapes by pressing the triangular perforations together to create seamless dough sections. Ensure each rectangle is compact and sealed.
  4. Generously brush each dough rectangle with melted unsalted butter, creating a smooth surface. Distribute a generous tablespoon of the pecan-sugar blend across each buttered rectangle.
  5. Roll each rectangle tightly from the long edge, mimicking a traditional cinnamon roll technique. Gently press and pinch the edges to secure the rolled dough.
  6. Slice each rolled section lengthwise using a sharp knife to create two elongated strips. Intertwine these strips, forming an elegant spiral pattern, and position them on the prepared baking sheet.
  7. Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 11-14 minutes until the twists become puffy and develop a golden-brown exterior.
  8. Allow the baked twists to cool on the baking sheet for 12-15 minutes, ensuring they set properly.
  9. Whisk powdered sugar, pure maple extract, and milk (or heavy cream) to create a smooth, drizzling glaze. Adjust liquid or sugar quantities to achieve desired consistency.
  10. Artfully drizzle the maple glaze over the cooled cinnamon twists, ensuring even coverage. Serve immediately and savor the delightful treat.

Notes

  • Pecan and Sugar Magic creates an irresistible filling that transforms ordinary crescent rolls into extraordinary sweet treats.
  • Precision in sealing dough perforations ensures a smooth, seamless texture and prevents filling from leaking during baking.
  • Twisting technique adds a beautiful spiral design that not only looks impressive but helps distribute the cinnamon-pecan mixture evenly.
  • Maple glaze provides a luxurious finishing touch, balancing the warm cinnamon and nutty pecan flavors with a sweet, silky coating.
  • Cooling time is crucial for allowing the pastry to set and letting the glaze create a perfect drizzled effect on the cinnamon twists.
  • Versatile recipe works great for breakfast, brunch, or as a delightful afternoon snack that will impress family and friends.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 13 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 195 kcal
  • Sugar: 8 g
  • Sodium: 190 mg
  • Fat: 11 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 21 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 10 mg
Mary Ellen

Mary Ellen

Founder, Pastry Chef & Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Artisanal Bread Making
  • Exquisite Pastry Craftsmanship
  • Creative Dessert Presentation
  • Flavor Profile Development
  • Menu Concept Innovation.

Education

Savannah Technical College

  • Program: Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Baking & Pastry Arts
  • Focus: A specialized program focusing on baking and pastry fundamentals, including bread making, cake decorating, and advanced pastry techniques. Developed creative presentation skills and an understanding of ingredient functions through lab-based practice.

Mary Ellen is the heart and soul of thatsmyhome.com. As the founder, pastry chef, and recipe developer, she refined her skills at Savannah Technical College with an Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Baking & Pastry Arts. 

Mary blends classic techniques with modern twists to make artisanal breads, beautifully crafted pastries, and desserts full of unique flavor. Her passion is evident in every recipe, and she enjoys sharing her expertise through hands-on pastry workshops and insightful articles in local culinary magazines.

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