Crescent Roll Dough

Name: Crescent Roll Dough
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 rolls
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup milk; 1/4 cup sugar; 1 tablespoon active dry yeast; 1/2 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Comfort Cravings Kitchen

Make your own flaky and buttery crescent roll dough at home with this simple recipe. Perfect for a variety of fillings!

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-05T16:50:21.321Z

This crescent roll dough is a versatile base for sweet or savory fillings. Whether you're making breakfast pastries or dinner rolls, this dough will elevate your dish.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Flaky layers that melt in your mouth
Quick and easy to prepare from scratch
Perfect for both sweet and savory fillings

      

The Versatility of Crescent Roll Dough

Crescent roll dough is a culinary chameleon, seamlessly adapting to a multitude of flavors and fillings. Whether you're in the mood for something savory like ham and cheese or a sweet treat filled with chocolate or fruit preserves, this dough is your perfect base. Its flaky texture complements both sweet and savory fillings, allowing for endless creativity in the kitchen. You can even experiment with herbs and spices to elevate your dishes to a gourmet level.

One of the best aspects of making your own crescent roll dough is the ability to control the ingredients. By using high-quality butter and fresh yeast, you ensure that your rolls will be both flavorful and healthy. Plus, homemade dough means no preservatives or additives, making it a great choice for those who are health-conscious. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create something special that your family will love.

Tips for Perfect Crescent Rolls

To achieve the flakiest and most tender crescent rolls, be sure to handle the dough gently. Over-kneading can lead to tough rolls, so knead just until smooth. Additionally, when rolling out the dough, use a light touch and keep the surface lightly floured to prevent sticking. If you're making your rolls ahead of time, consider refrigerating the formed rolls before baking. This will enhance the flavor and texture as they rise slowly in the cooler environment.

Another tip for success is to ensure that your yeast is properly activated. If your yeast doesn't foam after mixing it with warm milk and sugar, it may be inactive, and you'll need to start over. The warmth of the milk is essential for yeast activation, so check that it’s not too hot or too cold. A perfect rise will help your rolls become light and airy, making every bite a delightful experience.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before starting the recipe.

Dough Ingredients

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

Make sure to keep your ingredients at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your crescent roll dough.

Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.

Mix the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the softened butter and mix until crumbly. Pour in the yeast mixture and stir until a dough forms.

Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 15 minutes.

Roll and Cut

After rising, roll the dough out to a 1/4-inch thickness. Cut into triangles and roll them up from the wide end to the tip.

Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the rolls on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.

Enjoy your freshly baked crescent rolls warm from the oven!

Serving Suggestions

Crescent rolls are incredibly versatile and can be served in countless ways. For breakfast, pair them with fresh fruit and a drizzle of honey or serve them alongside scrambled eggs. They also make a delightful addition to dinner tables, especially when served with soups or salads. Consider filling them with pulled pork or roasted vegetables for a satisfying meal that pleases everyone.

For special occasions, consider using your crescent roll dough to create festive shapes. You can twist the dough into braids or form it into wreaths for holiday gatherings. A sprinkle of herbs or a brush of garlic butter before baking adds a gourmet touch that will impress your guests. The possibilities are endless, and your creativity is the only limit.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftover crescent rolls, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, you can freeze the baked rolls. Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil before placing them in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy them again, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently in the oven to restore their flaky texture.

To reheat your crescent rolls, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the rolls on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. For an extra touch, brush them with melted butter before reheating. This will help revive their buttery flavor and flaky layers, making them almost as good as fresh.

Questions About Recipes

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

Yes, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.

→ How do I store leftover crescent rolls?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I freeze the dough?

Absolutely! You can freeze the dough before or after rolling it into crescent shapes. Just thaw in the refrigerator before baking.

→ What fillings can I use for these rolls?

You can fill them with chocolate, cheese, ham, or fruit preserves—get creative!