Homemade Crescent Rolls

Flaky, Buttery Perfection Made from Scratch

Few things compare to the satisfaction of pulling a tray of freshly baked crescent rolls out of the oven. These homemade crescent rolls are soft, buttery, and deliciously flaky — the kind of bread that will elevate any meal or holiday gathering. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is designed with simplicity and success in mind.

In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the process of creating these tender crescents, offer tips for ensuring the perfect rise, and share ideas for variations. If you’ve been dreaming of the warm aroma of homemade bread wafting through your kitchen, this recipe is for you!

Why This Recipe is Special

Homemade crescent rolls are perfect for anyone who loves baking from scratch but doesn’t want to spend hours kneading dough. This recipe requires no extensive kneading, making it approachable for beginners while still delivering bakery-quality results. The dough is rich, soft, and slightly sweet, with just the right balance of butteriness.

Whether you’re preparing for a special occasion or simply looking to add a homemade touch to your dinner table, these crescent rolls are guaranteed to impress. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with just about anything — soups, salads, roasted meats, or even a simple pat of jam.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious crescent rolls:

For the Dough:

  • 1 1/4 cup warm water, divided
  • 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
  • 1/2 cup butter, melted (1 stick)
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 3 eggs, well beaten
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 4 1/2 cups flour

For Topping:

  • Additional melted butter for brushing

Notes:

  • Use warm water (around 105°F) to activate the yeast, but ensure it’s not too hot, as this can kill the yeast.
  • For best results, use unsalted butter so you can control the salt content.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To make this recipe, gather the following tools:

  • Mixing bowls (one small, one large)
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Stand mixer with dough hook attachment (optional but helpful)
  • Plastic wrap
  • Rolling pin
  • Baking sheets
  • Parchment paper or cooking spray
  • Sharp knife or pizza cutter
  • Pastry brush

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, mix 1/4 cup warm water and 1 tablespoon active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the yeast dissolves and becomes foamy.

2. Mix the Dough

In a large bowl (or the bowl of a stand mixer), combine the melted butter, remaining 1 cup of warm water, sugar, beaten eggs, salt, and the dissolved yeast mixture. Stir or mix with the dough hook attachment until well combined.

3. Add the Flour

Gradually add the flour to the mixture, incorporating it in small batches. Continue mixing until the dough is smooth. The dough will be sticky, so resist the urge to add more flour. This stickiness is key to soft, fluffy rolls.

4. First Rise

Let the dough sit at room temperature for 30 minutes. During this time, the dough will rise slightly. After 30 minutes, push or fold the dough down to release air bubbles.

5. Chill the Dough

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap sprayed with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Refrigerate the dough for 2-3 hours. Note: Do not leave the dough in the fridge overnight, as it may lose its rising power.

6. Shape the Rolls

Divide the dough into two halves. On a lightly floured surface, roll out each half into a circle about 1/8-1/4 inch thick. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to divide each circle into 12 triangles. Tightly roll each triangle from the wide end to the tip, forming a crescent shape. Place the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, with the tip side down.

7. Second Rise

Cover the rolls with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise in a warm place for 2-3 hours, or until they’ve doubled in size. The rising time will depend on the temperature of your kitchen.

8. Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Bake the rolls for 7-10 minutes, or until they’re lightly golden brown.

9. Brush with Butter

Remove the rolls from the oven and immediately brush them with melted butter for an extra layer of flavor and shine. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips for Success

  • Ensure the Yeast is Active: If your yeast doesn’t foam after 5 minutes, it may be expired or the water temperature may be off. Start over with fresh yeast.
  • Don’t Over-Flour: The dough is meant to be sticky. Adding too much flour will result in dense rolls.
  • Warm Environment for Rising: If your kitchen is cool, try placing the covered rolls in an oven with the light on to create a warm, draft-free environment.

Variations and Add-Ons

  • Garlic Butter Crescents: Add minced garlic and chopped parsley to the melted butter before brushing the rolls.
  • Cheesy Crescents: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or Parmesan inside each triangle before rolling them up.
  • Sweet Crescents: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon and sugar before rolling for a sweet treat.

Storing Leftovers

To store leftover crescent rolls:

  • Place cooled rolls in an airtight container or resealable bag. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days.
  • For longer storage, freeze the rolls in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions

These crescent rolls pair beautifully with a variety of dishes:

  • Serve alongside hearty soups or stews for a cozy meal.
  • Use them to make mini sandwiches with turkey, ham, or chicken salad.
  • Spread them with jam, honey, or Nutella for a sweet breakfast or snack.

FAQ

Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time? A: While it’s best to use the dough within the same day, you can refrigerate it for up to 3 hours before shaping and baking.

Q: Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast? A: Yes, you can substitute instant yeast. Skip the activation step and mix the yeast directly with the other ingredients.

Q: Can I make these vegan? A: Substitute the butter with vegan butter, the eggs with a flaxseed or chia egg, and ensure the sugar is vegan-friendly.

Conclusion and Call to Action

There’s nothing quite like the joy of homemade bread, and these crescent rolls are sure to become a family favorite. With their buttery, flaky texture and versatile nature, they’re perfect for any occasion. Try them out and let the aroma of freshly baked bread fill your home.

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