Cinnamon Crescents

Prep: 15 min Cook: 12 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: American

Cinnamon Crescents are flaky, sweet pastries filled with cinnamon sugar and walnuts, perfect for breakfast or a cozy snack, appealing to those who love warm spices and desserts.

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Ingredients

  • 1 can Pillsbury crescent rolls
  • 3 egg whites
  • 2/3 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 2 teaspoons cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
  • 1 egg

Instructions

  1. For the filling, beat 3 egg whites until stiff peaks form; gradually beat in 2/3 cup of sugar.
  2. Unroll the Pillsbury crescent rolls and separate into triangles.
  3. Spread the egg white and sugar mixture over the crescent triangles.
  4. Mix 1/2 cup of sugar with 2 teaspoons of cinnamon.
  5. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture and chopped walnuts over the filling.
  6. Roll up each triangle from the wide end to the point to form a crescent shape.
  7. Brush the tops with the beaten egg mixed with 2 teaspoons water.
  8. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 12 minutes or until golden brown.

Tips & Substitutions

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the egg white mixture. You can substitute the walnuts with pecans or omit them for a nut-free version. If you prefer a richer filling, try folding in some cream cheese with the egg whites. Ensure the crescent rolls stay chilled until you're ready to bake for the best texture.

Serving Suggestions

These cinnamon crescents make a delightful breakfast treat or dessert. Serve them warm with a drizzle of icing or a dusting of powdered sugar for added sweetness. They pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea, and for a more indulgent option, try them alongside Buttermilk Peanut Butter Fudge for a sweet spread.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover cinnamon crescents in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through. This will help maintain their flaky texture rather than using a microwave.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Cinnamon Crescents contains roughly 474 calories, with 8g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is a good source of protein (16% of the Daily Value), calcium (13% of the Daily Value), and iron (10% of the Daily Value).

474 kcal 24% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 8g 16% DV
Total Fat 18.4g 24% DV
Carbs 72.7g 26% DV
Fiber 2.1g 7% DV
Sugar 20.3g 41% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 219.8mg 10% DV
Potassium 417.2mg 9% DV
Cholesterol 130mg 43% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 31.7mcg 4% DV
Vitamin C 7.3mg 8% DV
Calcium 170.7mg 13% DV
Iron 1.8mg 10% DV
Contains Egg Tree nuts

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these crescents ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the crescents a few hours in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. Just remember to let them sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.

What can I use instead of egg whites?

If you're looking for an egg-free alternative, you can use aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) as a substitute for egg whites. Three tablespoons of aquafaba equals one egg white. Whip it until frothy and follow the same steps to incorporate it into the filling.

How do I know when the crescents are done baking?

The crescents are done when they are golden brown and puffed up. You can also check for a slight crispness on the outside and a soft, airy texture on the inside. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to avoid over-baking.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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