Nancy'S Crescents
Delicious pecan crescents with a rich butter flavor, coated in sweet confectioners sugar. Perfect for holidays or teatime, appealing to those who love buttery, nutty treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Soften butter to room temperature and knead into the flour until well combined.
- Add granulated sugar and vanilla; mix thoroughly.
- Stir in chopped pecans.
- Using a scoop or hands, form the mixture into small balls and place them on cookie sheets.
- Bake for about 45 minutes or until golden brown.
- While hot, roll the crescents in confectioners sugar.
- Let cool, then re-roll in confectioners sugar before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure the butter is softened but not melted. If you’re out of pecans, walnuts or almonds can be used as a substitute. To add extra flavor, consider incorporating a pinch of salt or a dash of cinnamon. These crescents can also be made ahead and frozen before baking, making them a great option for holiday gatherings or when craving a sweet treat.
Serving Suggestions
These crescents are perfect as a sweet snack with coffee or tea. They can be served alongside a fruit platter or paired with Joy'S Caramel Icing for a decadent twist. Consider serving them at a holiday gathering or as a delightful treat to share with friends and family. They also make a charming addition to dessert tables.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover crescents in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a resealable plastic bag. To reheat, place them in a warm oven for a few minutes, just until they regain their softness, and then roll in confectioners sugar again if desired.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nancy'S Crescents contains roughly 2606 calories, with 28g protein, 121g carbohydrates, and 175g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (103% of the Daily Value), protein (55% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (49% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 29g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 use a different type of nut in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts based on your preference. Just chop them finely and incorporate them into the dough as directed. Each nut will add a unique flavor and texture to the crescents.
How do I know when the crescents are done baking?
The crescents are done when they turn a light golden brown. Since baking times may vary based on your oven, start checking around the 40-minute mark. They should also feel firm to the touch. Remember, they will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven.
Can I make these crescents gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make gluten-free crescents, substitute the plain flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Be sure to choose a blend that includes xanthan gum or add it separately to ensure the right texture in your cookies.
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).