Name: Sweet Potato Crescent Bites with Marshmallows and Pecans Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 medium sweet potatoes (about 1 1/4 lb.), scrubbed clean; 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar; 2 tablespoons heavy cream; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1 (8-ounce) can refrigerated Crescent rolls; 3/4 cup mini marshmallows; 24 whole pecans; Cooking spray; 3 tablespoons maple syrup, for serving (optional)

Print Recipe·4 from 7 reviews

If you’re craving a cozy, indulgent treat that perfectly balances sweet and nutty flavors, you’re going to fall head over heels for the Sweet Potato Crescent Bites with Marshmallows and Pecans Recipe. These delightful little bites are like a mini celebration of all the best parts of sweet potato casserole tucked inside flaky, golden crescent rolls, topped with gooey marshmallows and crunchy pecans. They bake up quickly, are super shareable, and bring a comforting warmth that’s just right for holiday gatherings or any time you want a special snack with a nostalgic twist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A metal muffin tray holds fifteen small pie crusts, each shaped roughly with ruffled edges pressed into the tray's round wells. The dough is light golden with a soft texture, some crusts having uneven folds and creases, giving a homemade look. The tray rests on a white marbled surface, adding a clean and bright background to the simple, unbaked pastry shells photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Trust me, it’s the simplicity of these ingredients that makes this recipe so magical. Each item brings something unique to the table — from the natural sweetness of the potatoes to the buttery softness of the crescent dough — combining into a harmony of flavors and textures that’s irresistible.

Cooking spray: Helps prevent sticking and ensures easy removal from the muffin tin.
3 medium sweet potatoes (about 1 1/4 lb.), scrubbed clean: The star ingredient, providing natural sweetness and creamy texture.
1/4 cup packed light brown sugar: Adds warmth and a rich caramel flavor to the sweet potato filling.
2 tablespoons heavy cream: Makes the filling luxuriously smooth and slightly rich.
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Brings a hint of warm spice that elevates the sweet potato’s flavor.
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Adds subtle depth and aroma to the filling.
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Balances sweetness and brings out all the flavors.
1 (8-ounce) can refrigerated Crescent rolls: Provides that tender, flaky outer shell that bakes to golden perfection.
3/4 cup mini marshmallows: For a sweet, gooey topping reminiscent of classic sweet potato casserole.
24 whole pecans: Adds crunch plus a lovely nutty contrast.
3 tablespoons maple syrup, for serving (optional): Adds a final touch of maple sweetness when drizzled on after baking.

How to Make Sweet Potato Crescent Bites with Marshmallows and Pecans Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and greasing a mini muffin tin with cooking spray to ensure your bites don’t stick. Then, pierce your sweet potatoes several times with a fork so they cook evenly. Microwave the potatoes on a plate for about 15 minutes, checking for tenderness. If they’re not quite fork-tender, microwave a little longer. This quick cooking method softens the potatoes without heating up your whole kitchen!

Step 2: Mash and Flavor the Sweet Potatoes

Once your potatoes are soft, carefully slice them open and scoop out the flesh into a bowl. Discard the skins. Use a potato masher or fork to mash the sweet potatoes until smooth and lump-free. Next, whisk in the brown sugar, heavy cream, cinnamon, vanilla, and salt until everything is beautifully combined. This mixture is your sweet, creamy, richly spiced filling that will bring the bites to life.

Step 3: Prepare the Crescent Roll Base

On a lightly floured surface, unroll your crescent dough and pinch together any seams to create an even sheet of dough. Cut the dough into 24 equal squares that will neatly fit into your prepared mini muffin cups. This dough base will bake up light, buttery, and golden, providing the perfect vessel for your sweet potato filling.

Step 4: Assemble the Bites

Fill each crescent square with about a heaping tablespoon of the sweet potato mixture, spreading it gently. Top those luscious fillings with mini marshmallows — these will melt to a delightful golden goo during baking. Place the muffin tray in the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the crescent pastry is puffed and golden brown.

Step 5: Add Pecans and Finish Baking

After the initial bake, nestle a whole pecan into the center of each bite and return the tray to the oven for about 5 more minutes. This gives the pecans a toasty aroma and sets the perfect crunchy finish. For an extra layer of flavor, brush the pecans with maple syrup right before serving — it’s the little drizzle that takes these treats to the next level.

How to Serve Sweet Potato Crescent Bites with Marshmallows and Pecans Recipe

The image shows several small tarts on a white plate, each tart has a golden-brown crust that is flaky and slightly puffy. Inside the crust, there is a bright orange layer of mashed filling with a soft texture, topped with a melted light cream-colored layer. On the top center of each tart sits a whole toasted pecan, dark brown and shiny. In the middle tart, a golden amber syrup is being poured over the pecan, adding a glossy finish. The surface under the plate is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For an inviting presentation, sprinkle a pinch of ground cinnamon or a light dusting of powdered sugar just before serving. Fresh chopped pecans can also be scattered around the platter to highlight the nutty theme. A drizzle of warmed maple syrup straight from a small pitcher lets everyone customize their bites with a touch of extra sweetness.

Side Dishes

These bites make a perfect appetizer or side. Serve alongside a crisp green salad for balance, or pair them with roasted vegetables and a simple protein like baked chicken to turn them into a surprisingly hearty accompaniment. Their slight sweetness plays well against savory sides like herbed stuffing or a creamy soup.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to wow your guests, arrange the bites on a rustic wooden board or a festive holiday platter with autumn leaves or fresh sprigs of rosemary for color contrast. Wrap a few bites in parchment paper tied with twine for an adorable take-home gift at parties. For brunch, stack them pyramid-style around a small fondue pot of warm maple syrup for dipping fun.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled completely, place any leftover Sweet Potato Crescent Bites with Marshmallows and Pecans Recipe in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for about 3 days and can be enjoyed cold or reheated.

Freezing

These bites freeze wonderfully, making them a convenient treat to enjoy later. Arrange the baked bites on a baking sheet and freeze until solid to prevent sticking. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or zip-close bag. They will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight if frozen. Warm in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes or until heated through and the crescent dough regains its flaky texture. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the pastry soggy.

FAQs

Can I make Sweet Potato Crescent Bites with Marshmallows and Pecans Recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the sweet potato filling and assemble the bites in advance. Keep them covered in the fridge for up to a day before baking to save time on the day you want to serve.

What if I don’t have a microwave? Can I bake the sweet potatoes?

Yes, you can bake your sweet potatoes in a 400°F oven for about 45 to 60 minutes until tender. It takes longer but brings out a deeper, roasted sweetness.

Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh?

While possible, fresh sweet potatoes provide the best texture and flavor for this recipe. If you use canned, drain them well and adjust the seasoning since canned potatoes may be softer and less sweet.

Are there good substitutions for mini marshmallows?

If mini marshmallows aren’t available, you can cut regular marshmallows into smaller pieces or try a sprinkle of marshmallow fluff on top for a similar gooey effect.

How do I make these bites vegan or dairy-free?

Swap the heavy cream for coconut cream or a dairy-free milk alternative, and choose crescent rolls that are dairy-free. You can omit marshmallows or use vegan marshmallows and use a plant-based butter substitute for greasing the muffin tin.

Final Thoughts

If you want a recipe that feels like a warm hug in every bite, the Sweet Potato Crescent Bites with Marshmallows and Pecans Recipe is it. They’re fast to make, packed with seasonal flavors, and just downright fun to eat. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday gathering or cozying up on a chilly evening, these bites are guaranteed to bring smiles and satisfied sighs. Give them a try soon — your taste buds will thank you!