Crescent rolls are a classic addition to any meal, loved for their flaky layers, buttery flavor, and soft texture. Their iconic crescent shape makes them as visually appealing as they are delicious. Whether you’re enjoying them with a hearty dinner, at brunch, or as a quick snack, they never fail to impress.
While store-bought crescent rolls are convenient, there’s something special about baking them from scratch. The rich aroma of homemade rolls filling your kitchen is unbeatable, and the fresh, warm rolls are a reward in themselves. With just a few pantry staples, you can create crescent rolls that rival any bakery.
If you’re craving something sweet and fluffy instead of flaky, try our Texas Roadhouse Rolls. They’re just as simple to make and perfect for pairing with comfort meals.
These rolls are incredibly versatile, too. You can serve them plain, pair them with butter or jam, or stuff them with savory or sweet fillings. During festive gatherings like Thanksgiving or Christmas, crescent rolls shine as a side dish that complements everything from roasted turkey to creamy casseroles.
Why You’ll Love This Crescent Rolls Recipe
This recipe offers the perfect balance of simplicity and flavor, making it ideal for bakers of all skill levels. The step-by-step instructions guide you through creating soft, flaky rolls that are both easy to prepare and impossible to resist.
One of the best aspects of this recipe is its adaptability. You can keep the rolls plain or elevate them with toppings like herbs, seeds, or cheese. For a sweeter option, transform the dough with cinnamon sugar or fruit preserves, turning these crescent rolls into a delicious dessert.
Additionally, homemade crescent rolls are free of preservatives, giving you a fresher and healthier alternative to store-bought options. Baking these rolls is not just about the taste but also about the experience of creating something homemade to share with family and friends.
Preparation Time and Yield
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Resting/Rising Time: 2 hours
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 crescent rolls
Nutritional Information (Per Roll)
- Calories: 140
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 3g
Ingredients for Crescent Rolls
Dough Ingredients
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
Ingredients For Assembly:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
Topping Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Step-by-Step Instructions for Crescent Rolls
Step 1: Activate the yeast.
In a small bowl, mix the warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy. This step ensures the yeast is active and ready to leaven the dough.
Step 2: Combine the wet ingredients.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the yeast mixture, melted butter, egg, and salt until well incorporated.
Step 3: Add the flour gradually.
Slowly mix in the flour, one cup at a time, using a wooden spoon or the dough hook of a stand mixer. Continue until a soft dough forms and begins pulling away from the sides of the bowl.
Step 4: Knead the dough.
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook to knead on medium speed for 5 minutes.
Step 5: Let the dough rise.
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and allow it to rise in a warm, draft-free area. Let it rise for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 6: Roll out the dough.
After punching down the dough, transfer it to a floured surface. Roll it into a large circle approximately 1/4 inch thick.
Step 7: Cut and shape the crescents.
Divide the dough into 16 equal wedges using a pizza cutter or sharp knife. Spread softened butter over each wedge, then roll them up tightly from the wide end to the pointed tip to create the classic crescent shape.
Step 8: Allow for a second rise.
Arrange the crescents on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each roll. Cover them with a kitchen towel and let them rise for 30–45 minutes until puffy.
Step 9: Bake the rolls.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 12–15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Step 10: Brush with butter.
Remove the rolls from the oven and immediately brush them with melted butter. Serve warm and enjoy!
Ingredient Background
Milk
Warm milk provides richness to the dough while activating the yeast. Be careful to use milk that is warm but not hot, as excessive heat can kill the yeast.
Yeast
Active dry yeast is essential for achieving light and fluffy rolls. Always check the expiration date and activate it properly for the best results.
Sugar
Sugar feeds the yeast, helping the dough rise. It also adds a touch of sweetness to balance the flavor.
Butter
Butter enhances the flavor and contributes to the crescent rolls’ flaky texture. Softened butter is spread on the dough to create layers, while melted butter is brushed on top for a shiny finish.
Egg
Egg binds the ingredients and enriches the dough, giving the rolls a tender texture and a golden color.
Flour
All-purpose flour is the foundation of the dough. It provides structure, so measure it accurately to avoid overly dense or sticky rolls.
Technique Tips for the Best Crescent Rolls
Activate the Yeast Properly
Ensure the milk is at the right temperature (about 110°F). Milk that is too hot can kill the yeast, while milk that is too cold may not activate it.
Knead for Optimal Texture
Proper kneading develops the gluten in the dough, which is crucial for achieving the soft and stretchy texture of crescent rolls. Knead until the dough becomes smooth and pliable.
Allow Time for Rising
Rising times are essential for light, fluffy rolls. Be patient and let the dough double in size during the first rise, and then puff up during the second rise.
Roll and Shape Evenly
Cut the dough into equal wedges for consistent baking. Roll each wedge tightly to ensure the classic crescent shape holds during baking.
Don’t Skip the Butter
Spreading butter on the wedges before rolling adds richness and helps create the flaky layers that make crescent rolls irresistible.
Alternative Presentation Ideas
Herb and Garlic Crescents
Incorporate minced garlic and dried herbs like rosemary or thyme into the dough or sprinkle them on top before baking.
Cheesy Crescents
Sprinkle shredded cheese, such as Parmesan or cheddar, on the dough wedges before rolling for a savory twist.
Sweet Crescent Rolls
Spread a layer of cinnamon sugar or fruit preserves on the dough before rolling to create a dessert version.
Mini Crescents
Cut smaller wedges to create bite-sized rolls that are perfect for parties or appetizers.
Stuffed Crescents
Fill each wedge with a cube of cheese, ham, or even chocolate for a surprise filling that’s sure to delight.
Freezing and Storing Crescent Rolls
Storing Leftovers
Proper storage is key to maintaining the freshness of crescent rolls. Once cooled, place leftover rolls in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag to prevent them from drying out. Keep them at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you live in a humid climate, you might prefer storing them in the refrigerator to extend their shelf life by an extra day or two. To maintain softness, include a piece of parchment paper or a napkin in the container to absorb any excess moisture.
Freezing Rolls
Freezing baked crescent rolls is a fantastic way to preserve their quality for later use. Wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn, and then store them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label the bag with the date to ensure you use them within three months. To serve, thaw the rolls at room temperature for about an hour and then reheat them for a fresh-from-the-oven taste.
Freezing Dough
For ultimate convenience, freeze the crescent rolls after shaping but before baking. Place the shaped dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the rolls to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to bake, thaw the rolls overnight in the refrigerator, allow them to rise at room temperature, and bake as directed. This method allows you to enjoy freshly baked crescent rolls anytime.
Reheating Tips
To restore their softness and flavor, reheat crescent rolls in a 300°F oven for 5–7 minutes. Wrapping them in foil before reheating helps retain moisture and prevents over-browning. For a quicker option, microwave the rolls for 10–15 seconds, covering them with a damp paper towel to keep them from drying out. Brushing with melted butter before serving adds a fresh and indulgent touch.
Healthier Twist Ideas
Whole Wheat Flour
Substituting half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour increases fiber and nutrients while adding a subtle nutty flavor. If you want a lighter texture, opt for white whole wheat flour, which provides the benefits of whole grains without making the rolls too dense.
Dairy-Free Substitutes
For those avoiding dairy, use almond, soy, or oat milk in place of regular milk. Vegan butter substitutes like coconut oil or margarine can be used instead of traditional butter, resulting in equally tender and flaky rolls. These adjustments make the recipe suitable for vegan diets without compromising flavor.
Seed Toppings
Sprinkle sesame, poppy, or flax seeds on top of the crescent rolls before baking for added texture and nutrition. You can also mix seeds into the dough to create a crunchy, wholesome variation. Seeds not only boost fiber but also enhance the rolls’ visual appeal.
Reduced Sugar
Lower the sugar content to 1–2 tablespoons if you prefer less sweet rolls. This makes them more suitable for savory pairings like soups, stews, or charcuterie boards.
Low-Fat Option
Replace part of the butter in the dough with Greek yogurt or plain yogurt. This substitution lowers the fat content while keeping the rolls moist and flavorful. Yogurt also adds a slight tang that pairs well with savory dishes.
Gluten-Free Option
For gluten-free crescent rolls, use a high-quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend with xanthan gum. This ensures the dough maintains the elasticity needed for shaping and rising.
Vegetable Add-Ins
Incorporate finely grated vegetables like zucchini or carrots into the dough for added vitamins and a touch of natural sweetness. This is an excellent way to sneak more veggies into your meals.
Serving Suggestions for Events
Holiday Dinners
Crescent rolls are a must-have at holiday dinners. Serve them warm alongside classic dishes like turkey, mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, and stuffing. Their soft, buttery texture complements rich, savory flavors and is perfect for mopping up gravies or sauces.
Brunch Buffets
Include crescent rolls in your brunch spread for a versatile bread option. Pair them with scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, smoked salmon, and fresh fruit. Use the rolls to make mini breakfast sliders with fillings like sausage patties, eggs, and cheese for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Appetizers
Crescent rolls are the perfect base for appetizers. Wrap them around cocktail sausages to create pigs in a blanket or fill them with cream cheese, herbs, or ham for easy, crowd-pleasing bites. Cut the dough into smaller wedges to make mini appetizers that are perfect for parties.
Soups and Stews
Serve crescent rolls with creamy soups like tomato bisque, potato leek soup, or hearty stews like beef or lentil stew. Their flaky layers are perfect for dipping, adding a satisfying texture to every bite.
Dessert Platters
Transform crescent rolls into a dessert by adding sweet fillings or toppings. Pair them with chocolate sauce, fruit preserves, or a drizzle of icing for a simple yet indulgent treat. Rolls stuffed with cinnamon sugar or Nutella also make a delicious addition to dessert platters.
Picnics and Potlucks
Bring crescent rolls to picnics or potlucks for a versatile and portable bread option. Use them to make mini sandwiches with deli meats, cheeses, and vegetables. Their easy-to-eat shape makes them a hit at any outdoor gathering.
Romantic Dinners
For an intimate meal, serve crescent rolls with a gourmet main course like roasted lamb or beef tenderloin. Add a touch of elegance by brushing the rolls with truffle butter or sprinkling them with flaky sea salt.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I prepare crescent rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough ahead and refrigerate it after the first rise. When ready to bake, shape the rolls, let them rise again, and bake as directed.
2. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Absolutely. Instant yeast works well in this recipe. Skip the activation step and mix the yeast directly with the dry ingredients.
3. Can I freeze unbaked crescent rolls?
Yes, you can freeze the shaped dough before baking. Arrange the crescents on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and transfer to a freezer bag. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator, let them rise at room temperature, and bake.
4. How do I ensure my crescent rolls are soft?
Store rolls in an airtight container to retain moisture. Reheating them with a damp paper towel in the microwave or wrapped in foil in the oven will help restore their softness.
5. Are there other easy roll recipes I can make?
Definitely! Our Easy Dinner Rolls are another simple and versatile recipe that pairs beautifully with any meal.”
6. How can I make crescent rolls vegan?
Replace dairy milk with almond, soy, or oat milk and use vegan butter. Ensure your sugar is vegan-friendly for a fully plant-based recipe.
7. What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
If the dough doesn’t rise, the yeast may be expired, or the milk might have been too hot or cold. Use fresh yeast and ensure the liquid temperature is around 110°F for optimal activation.
8. How long can I freeze baked crescent rolls?
Baked crescent rolls can be frozen for up to three months. Wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. To enjoy, thaw at room temperature and reheat before serving.
Conclusion
Crescent rolls are a versatile and delicious addition to any meal, offering flaky layers, buttery flavor, and a tender texture that’s hard to resist. Whether served as a side dish, appetizer, or dessert, these rolls are sure to impress at every occasion.
This recipe simplifies the process of making crescent rolls from scratch, making it accessible to beginners while still delivering professional-quality results. From holiday feasts to casual dinners, homemade crescent rolls bring warmth and comfort to your table.
So why wait? Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the satisfaction of baking these delightful rolls at home. Once you try them, store-bought crescent rolls will be a thing of the past!