Pillsbury Crescent Rolls are a classic convenience food that has become a staple in many kitchens around the world. Originally introduced in 1957 by Pillsbury, these light, buttery rolls have captured the hearts of many home cooks due to their versatility, ease of use, and delicious taste. Whether you’re looking to make a quick breakfast, a savory snack, or a full dinner, these crescent rolls can be adapted to suit any meal. Their unique texture – flaky on the outside and soft on the inside – combined with a mild buttery flavor, makes them a perfect base for a variety of fillings and toppings.
From savory stuffed options to sweet treats, Pillsbury Crescent Rolls can be used in numerous ways, and in this guide, we’ll explore some of the best recipes you can make using these versatile rolls.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to get started with a variety of Pillsbury Crescent Roll recipes. You can mix and match these ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.
Base Ingredients:
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1 can of Pillsbury Crescent Rolls (8 count)
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4 oz cream cheese (can substitute with dairy-free or vegan cream cheese)
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or any cheese of your choice)
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2 tbsp unsalted butter (can substitute with olive oil or plant-based butter)
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1 tbsp garlic powder (optional)
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1 tbsp Italian seasoning (optional)
Substitutions for Dietary Restrictions:
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free crescent roll dough (available in some stores).
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Vegan: Opt for dairy-free cream cheese, plant-based butter, and vegan cheese.
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Low-Carb: Use a low-carb crescent roll alternative or make your own dough using almond flour.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps for creating a simple yet delicious Pillsbury Crescent Roll recipe.
Instructions for Basic Savory Crescent Rolls:
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Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat while you prepare the rolls.
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Prepare the Crescent Rolls: Open the can of Pillsbury Crescent Rolls and unroll the dough onto a clean surface. Separate the dough into triangles.
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Prepare the Filling: In a small bowl, mix together softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and optional garlic powder and Italian seasoning.
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Fill the Rolls: Place a small spoonful of the cheese mixture on the wide end of each dough triangle.
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Roll Them Up: Carefully roll up each triangle from the wide end to the pointed end, creating a crescent shape.
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Bake: Place the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
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Serve: Once baked, brush the rolls with melted butter for added flavor and serve warm.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
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Don’t overstuff the rolls with filling as they may not close properly.
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Make sure not to bake them for too long to avoid burning the edges.
Pro Tips and Cooking Techniques
Here are a few pro tips to help you make the most of your Pillsbury Crescent Rolls:
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Use room-temperature cream cheese: This will ensure your filling is smooth and easy to spread.
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Brush with butter: For an extra touch of flavor and a golden finish, brush the rolls with butter immediately after baking.
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Add herbs: Fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or parsley can be added to the filling for extra flavor.
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Pre-cook some fillings: If you’re using ingredients like sausage or spinach, make sure to cook them beforehand so that they don’t release too much moisture in the rolls.Variations and Customizations
The beauty of Pillsbury Crescent Rolls is that they can be easily customized. Here are some delicious variations:
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Vegetarian Crescent Rolls: Fill your crescent rolls with sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, and bell peppers for a hearty vegetarian option.
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Sweet Crescent Rolls: For a sweet twist, fill the rolls with cinnamon sugar and bake. You can also drizzle a glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for extra sweetness.
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Gluten-Free Crescent Rolls: Use gluten-free dough to make these recipes accessible for those with dietary restrictions.
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Low-Carb Options: Try making a low-carb filling with cooked chicken and cheese, and use almond flour-based dough.
Serving Suggestions
Once your crescent rolls are baked and golden brown, it’s time to serve! Here are a few ideas to enhance your dish:
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With a Salad: Serve your savory crescent rolls with a fresh green salad topped with your favorite dressing for a light and balanced meal.
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With Dips: Serve warm rolls with dipping sauces such as marinara, ranch dressing, or honey mustard for extra flavor.
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Pair with Beverages: A chilled iced tea, lemonade, or sparkling water can complement these rolls beautifully.
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown for a serving of basic Pillsbury Crescent Rolls (1 roll):
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Calories: 200
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Protein: 4g
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Carbs: 22g
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Fat: 12g
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Fiber: 1g
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Sugar: 2g
Keep in mind that the nutritional values may vary based on the ingredients and variations used.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make Pillsbury Crescent Rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them and refrigerate them before baking. When you’re ready, just pop them into the oven for a quick bake.
Can I freeze crescent rolls?
Absolutely! After baking, let the rolls cool and freeze them in an airtight container. Reheat them in the oven or microwave when ready to serve.
How can I prevent the rolls from being too doughy inside?
Be sure to bake the rolls until they are golden brown, and if you’re using a filling, make sure not to overstuff them.
Closing Thoughts
Pillsbury Crescent Rolls are an incredibly versatile and easy-to-use ingredient that can elevate any meal. Whether you’re making a savory snack, a hearty dinner, or a sweet dessert, these rolls are sure to delight everyone at the table. Experiment with different fillings, seasonings, and toppings to create your own signature crescent roll recipe.
Have fun with the process, and don’t forget to share your results! We’d love to hear about the creative ways you used Pillsbury Crescent Rolls in your meals.
