Crescent Roll Dough

Highlighted under: Deluxe Baking Inspirations

Crescent roll dough is a versatile and flaky pastry that can elevate any meal or occasion. Perfect for sweet or savory fillings, it’s a must-have for any home baker.

Emma

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-05T17:58:20.210Z

This crescent roll dough recipe is perfect for creating flaky, buttery rolls that can be enjoyed with any meal. Whether you fill them with sweet jams, creamy cheeses, or savory meats, these rolls are sure to impress.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Flaky and buttery texture that melts in your mouth
  • Easy to make and perfect for beginners
  • Versatile for both sweet and savory fillings

The Versatility of Crescent Roll Dough

Crescent roll dough is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for a variety of culinary creations. Whether you're preparing a comforting breakfast or a delicious dinner, this dough can adapt to your needs. You can fill it with sweet ingredients like fruit preserves for a delightful pastry or savory fillings like cheese and ham for a satisfying snack. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to unleash your creativity in the kitchen.

Not only is crescent roll dough perfect for individual rolls, but it can also be used as a base for larger dishes such as casseroles or stuffed breads. By simply layering ingredients onto the rolled-out dough, you can create a delicious meal that's sure to impress your family and friends. This flexibility makes crescent roll dough a staple in any home baker's repertoire.

Tips for Perfect Crescent Rolls

To achieve the flakiest and most delicious crescent rolls, it's important to handle the dough gently. Over-kneading can lead to tough rolls, so be sure to knead just until smooth. Additionally, letting the dough rise in a warm environment is crucial. A too-cold space can slow down the yeast, resulting in dense rolls. A warm, draft-free area is ideal for achieving the perfect rise.

Another helpful tip is to experiment with different fillings. While traditional butter and sugar are delightful, consider adding herbs, spices, or even chocolate for a unique twist. You can also sprinkle toppings, such as sesame seeds or sea salt, on top of the rolls before baking to add an extra layer of flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Crescent rolls are perfect for various occasions, from family dinners to holiday gatherings. Serve them warm alongside your main dish, or use them as a base for sliders or mini sandwiches. Their flaky texture pairs wonderfully with soups and salads, making them an excellent addition to any meal.

For a sweet treat, try serving crescent rolls with butter and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for a quick dessert. You can also fill them with cream cheese and fruit for a delightful breakfast option. No matter how you choose to serve them, crescent roll dough will be the star of your table.

Ingredients

Crescent Roll Dough Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 egg, beaten

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk and let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add in the softened butter and the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.

Knead and Rise

Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 30 minutes.

Shape the Rolls

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough into a large circle and cut it into wedges. Roll each wedge from the wide end to the tip to form crescent shapes.

Bake

Place the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush with beaten egg and bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.

Allow the rolls to cool slightly before serving.

Storage Tips

If you have leftover crescent rolls, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To keep them fresh for a longer period, consider freezing them. Just make sure to wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be reheated directly from the freezer, making them a convenient snack or side dish anytime.

For those who enjoy baking in batches, prepared crescent roll dough can also be refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows you to prep ahead of time and bake fresh rolls whenever you need them. Just remember to let the dough come to room temperature before rolling and cutting to ensure the best results.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake when making crescent roll dough is not allowing the yeast to activate properly. Make sure the milk is warm but not hot, as temperatures above 120°F (49°C) can kill the yeast. Always check that your yeast is fresh and active before mixing it with other ingredients to ensure a good rise.

Another pitfall is cutting the dough unevenly when shaping the rolls. Evenly sized wedges will ensure that the rolls bake consistently, giving you that perfect golden color and texture. Take your time when cutting the dough to make sure that each piece is uniform.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but the texture may be denser.

→ How do I store leftover dough?

Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the rolled crescent rolls?

Yes, you can freeze the shaped rolls before baking. Just place them on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag.

→ What can I fill the crescent rolls with?

You can fill them with cheese, meats, fruits, or even chocolate for a sweet treat.

Crescent Roll Dough

Crescent roll dough is a versatile and flaky pastry that can elevate any meal or occasion. Perfect for sweet or savory fillings, it’s a must-have for any home baker.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration15 minutes
Overall Time35 minutes

Created by: Emma

Recipe Type: Deluxe Baking Inspirations

Skill Level: Beginner

Final Quantity: 12 rolls

What You'll Need

Crescent Roll Dough Ingredients

  1. 2 cups all-purpose flour
  2. 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  3. 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  4. 1/2 cup milk
  5. 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
  6. 1/2 teaspoon salt
  7. 1 egg, beaten

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk and let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.

Step 02

In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add in the softened butter and the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.

Step 03

Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 30 minutes.

Step 04

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough into a large circle and cut it into wedges. Roll each wedge from the wide end to the tip to form crescent shapes.

Step 05

Place the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush with beaten egg and bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 120 kcal
  • Total Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 25mg
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g
  • Sugars: 2g
  • Protein: 2g