
Hillbilly Pie (Poor Man’s Pie) is the kind of dessert that proves comfort does not need to be complicated. With crescent roll dough, melted butter, cinnamon sugar, and a simple vanilla glaze, it turns humble ingredients into something warm, sweet, nostalgic, and easy to share.
This is a dessert with an old-fashioned feeling. It has that cozy kitchen aroma of cinnamon and sugar baking together, the kind that makes people pause in the doorway and ask what is in the oven.
The beauty of Hillbilly Pie is how simple it is. There is no need for a long ingredient list, fancy equipment, or a complicated pastry method.
You start with refrigerated crescent roll dough, press the seams together in a baking dish, spread a buttery cinnamon mixture over the top, and bake until golden. A quick powdered sugar glaze finishes it with a sweet, soft drizzle.
It is the kind of dessert that fits lazy Sunday afternoons, family gatherings, chilly evenings, and simple nights when you want something homemade without much effort. It is budget-friendly, quick to prepare, and full of the kind of flavor that feels familiar.
Hillbilly Pie (Poor Man’s Pie) is also flexible. You can add apples, pears, berries, nuts, chocolate chips, raisins, caramel sauce, or use puff pastry, homemade pie crust, sugar substitutes, low-fat milk, coconut oil, or non-dairy milk depending on what you need.
Table of Contents
- Why You’ll Love This Hillbilly Pie
- Recipe Details
- Ingredients
- Ingredient Notes
- Optional Swaps, Variations, Add-Ins, and Serving Ideas
- Brown Sugar Hillbilly Pie
- Apple Hillbilly Pie
- Pear Hillbilly Pie
- Berry Hillbilly Pie
- Puff Pastry Hillbilly Pie
- Homemade Pie Crust Version
- Pecan Hillbilly Pie
- Walnut Hillbilly Pie
- Caramel Hillbilly Pie
- Lighter Hillbilly Pie
- Lower-Calorie Glaze
- Nut-Free Hillbilly Pie
- Chocolate Chip Hillbilly Pie
- Raisin Hillbilly Pie
- Dairy-Free Hillbilly Pie
- Why This Recipe Works
- Directions
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
- Step 3: Open the Crescent Roll Dough
- Step 4: Unroll the Dough
- Step 5: Press the Seams
- Step 6: Check the Dough Base
- Step 7: Melt the Butter
- Step 8: Add Butter to a Bowl
- Step 9: Add the Sugar
- Step 10: Add the Cinnamon
- Step 11: Mix the Filling
- Step 12: Spread the Filling
- Step 13: Cover the Dough Evenly
- Step 14: Add Optional Fruit If Desired
- Step 15: Add Optional Mix-Ins If Desired
- Step 16: Bake the Pie
- Step 17: Check the Color
- Step 18: Remove from the Oven
- Step 19: Start the Glaze
- Step 20: Add the Powdered Sugar
- Step 21: Add the Milk
- Step 22: Add the Vanilla
- Step 23: Stir the Glaze
- Step 24: Drizzle the Glaze
- Step 25: Add Caramel If Desired
- Step 26: Slice and Serve
- Serving Ideas
- Storage
- Freezing
- Make-Ahead
- Helpful Notes for Best Results
- Variations
- Troubleshooting
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Why This Recipe Works So Well
- Final Thoughts
- Hillbilly Pie (Poor Man’s Pie)
Why You’ll Love This Hillbilly Pie
Hillbilly Pie has a quick prep time of just 15 minutes. That means dessert can come together without a long wait.
It is made with minimal ingredients, which keeps it budget-friendly and simple. Crescent roll dough, butter, sugar, cinnamon, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla are all you need.
It is family-friendly and fun to make. Kids can help press the dough, stir the cinnamon filling, or drizzle the glaze.
The recipe is freezer-friendly. You can freeze slices for up to a month if you want to save some for later.
It fills the house with a cozy cinnamon aroma as it bakes. That scent is one of the best parts of the recipe.
It is versatile enough for favorite mix-ins. Nuts, chocolate chips, raisins, apples, pears, berries, and caramel sauce can all give it a different personality.
Recipe Details
Hillbilly Pie (Poor Man’s Pie) bakes at 350°F, or 175°C. The oven should be fully preheated so the dough bakes evenly and turns golden brown.
The prep time is 15 minutes. The bake time is about 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
The recipe uses 1 can, or 8 oz, of refrigerated crescent roll dough. The dough is unrolled into a baking dish, and the seams are pressed together to form one single base.
A 9×13 inch baking dish is suggested. The dough may look rustic after pressing, and that is part of its charm.
The filling is made with melted unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon. The mixture should be smooth, sweet, and well blended before spreading.
The glaze is made with powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. It should be smooth and pourable but not too runny.
The pie can be served warm or at room temperature. Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream can be added on the side.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Individual slices can be wrapped tightly and frozen for up to a month.
Ingredients
For the Pie
- 1 can (8 oz) of crescent roll dough – look for the refrigerated kind; it rolls out easily and bakes beautifully.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter – make sure it’s melted for that rich flavor; you can use margarine in a pinch.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar – this is your sweet base, but feel free to substitute with brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon – don’t skimp on this; it’s what gives the pie that warm, nostalgic taste.
For the Glaze
- ¼ cup powdered sugar – this will sweeten your glaze and give it that lovely finish.
- 1 tablespoon milk – any kind works; use almond milk for a dairy-free option.
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract – for that extra hint of deliciousness; pure vanilla is best, but imitation will do in a bind.
Ingredient Notes
Refrigerated crescent roll dough creates the base of the pie. It rolls out easily and bakes beautifully, which makes the recipe quick and practical.
Unsalted butter gives the filling richness. It should be melted so it blends smoothly with the sugar and cinnamon.
Margarine can be used in a pinch. This gives you another option if butter is not available.
Granulated sugar creates the sweet base of the filling. Brown sugar can be substituted if you want a deeper flavor.
Ground cinnamon gives the pie its warm, nostalgic taste. It is the flavor that makes the kitchen smell cozy while the pie bakes.
Powdered sugar sweetens the glaze. It also helps the glaze become smooth and soft.
Milk loosens the glaze to a pourable texture. Any kind works, and almond milk can be used for a dairy-free option.
Vanilla extract gives the glaze extra flavor. Pure vanilla is best, but imitation vanilla works if needed.
Optional Swaps, Variations, Add-Ins, and Serving Ideas
Brown Sugar Hillbilly Pie
Brown sugar can be used instead of granulated sugar. It gives the filling a deeper flavor.
This swap makes the cinnamon mixture taste a little warmer. It is a simple way to change the sweetness.
Apple Hillbilly Pie
Chopped apples can be added to the filling for a fruity twist. They bring sweetness and texture.
Apple works naturally with cinnamon. This variation makes the pie feel even more like a fall dessert.
Pear Hillbilly Pie
Chopped pears can also be added to the filling. They give the dessert a softer fruit flavor.
Pears pair well with cinnamon and glaze. They make the pie feel gently sweet.
Berry Hillbilly Pie
Berries can be added to the filling for a fruity twist. They bring color and a fresh flavor.
This option changes the pie from purely cinnamon-sweet to more fruit-forward. It is a cheerful variation for sharing.
Puff Pastry Hillbilly Pie
Puff pastry can be used instead of crescent roll dough. This gives the dessert a flakier texture.
The method stays simple, but the final bite becomes lighter and more layered. It is a good swap if you want more pastry flake.
Homemade Pie Crust Version
Homemade pie crust can be used as an alternative to crescent roll dough. It gives a delicious result.
This version changes the texture and feel of the dessert. It is useful if you prefer a more traditional crust.
Pecan Hillbilly Pie
Chopped pecans can be added for crunch. They make the filling more textured.
Pecans work well with butter, sugar, and cinnamon. They add a nutty richness.
Walnut Hillbilly Pie
Chopped walnuts can also be used. They bring another crunchy option.
Walnuts give the pie a slightly different flavor. They help balance the sweet glaze.
Caramel Hillbilly Pie
Caramel sauce can be drizzled over the glaze for an indulgent treat. This makes the dessert richer.
The caramel adds another layer of sweetness. It pairs well with cinnamon and crescent dough.
Lighter Hillbilly Pie
A sugar substitute can be used for a lighter version. Low-fat milk can also be used in the glaze.
These swaps change the sweetness and richness. They are helpful if you want a lighter approach.
Lower-Calorie Glaze
Powdered sugar can be swapped with a sugar alternative for a lower-calorie glaze. This changes the glaze but keeps the finishing idea.
Use a sugar alternative that works for your preference. The glaze should still be smooth enough to drizzle.
Nut-Free Hillbilly Pie
For a nut-free option, simply omit any nuts you might want to add. The pie is still delicious without them.
The cinnamon filling and glaze remain the focus. This keeps the dessert simple.
Chocolate Chip Hillbilly Pie
Chocolate chips can be added to the filling for a sweet surprise. They add richness and a little extra indulgence.
This is a fun variation for chocolate lovers. The chocolate pairs with cinnamon in a cozy way.
Raisin Hillbilly Pie
Raisins can be added to the filling. They bring chewy sweetness.
This variation gives the pie a classic, homey feeling. Raisins work well with cinnamon.
Dairy-Free Hillbilly Pie
The pie can be made dairy-free by using coconut oil and non-dairy milk. Almond milk or oat milk can be used for the glaze.
This changes the flavor and texture slightly. It keeps the dessert accessible for dairy-free needs.
Why This Recipe Works
Hillbilly Pie works because it transforms a few simple ingredients into something warm and satisfying. Crescent roll dough gives the dessert structure, while the cinnamon-butter filling brings sweetness and aroma.
Pressing the crescent seams together creates a single base. It does not need to look perfect, because the rustic look is part of the charm.
The melted butter helps carry the cinnamon and sugar over the dough. It spreads easily and bakes into the surface.
The glaze adds a sweet finish after baking. Powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla create a simple drizzle that makes the pie feel complete.
The recipe also works because it is flexible. You can keep it plain or add fruit, nuts, chocolate, raisins, or caramel.
Most of all, it works because it is quick and comforting. In about 15 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of baking, you get a dessert that feels homemade and nostalgic.
Directions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F, or 175°C. This helps the Hillbilly Pie bake evenly.
Let the oven heat fully before placing the baking dish inside. A properly preheated oven helps the top turn golden brown.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
Set out a baking dish. A 9×13 inch dish is suggested for this recipe.
Having the dish ready makes the dough step easier. The crescent roll dough will be unrolled directly into it.
Step 3: Open the Crescent Roll Dough
Open 1 can, or 8 oz, of refrigerated crescent roll dough. Work carefully so the dough does not tear too much.
The refrigerated kind rolls out easily and bakes beautifully. It is what makes this dessert so quick.
Step 4: Unroll the Dough
Carefully unroll the crescent roll dough onto the baking dish. Spread it out gently.
Do not worry if it looks a little rustic. That homemade look is part of the dessert’s charm.
Step 5: Press the Seams
Press the seams together gently to form one single piece of dough. This creates a solid base for the filling.
Take a moment to close any open lines between the crescent sections. The filling should sit on top of a connected layer.
Step 6: Check the Dough Base
Look over the dough and make sure it covers the bottom of the dish as evenly as possible. The surface does not need to be perfect.
If a spot looks thin, gently press it into place. Keep the dough in one layer.
Step 7: Melt the Butter
Melt ¼ cup unsalted butter. It should be fully melted for easy mixing.
Melted butter gives the filling rich flavor. Margarine can be used in a pinch.
Step 8: Add Butter to a Bowl
Pour the melted butter into a medium bowl. This will be the base of the cinnamon filling.
Use a bowl with enough room to stir smoothly. The sugar and cinnamon will be added next.
Step 9: Add the Sugar
Add ¼ cup granulated sugar to the melted butter. Brown sugar can be used instead for a deeper flavor.
The sugar gives the filling sweetness. Stirring it into butter helps it spread.
Step 10: Add the Cinnamon
Add 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon. This gives the pie its warm, nostalgic taste.
The cinnamon should be mixed evenly into the butter and sugar. Do not skimp on it.
Step 11: Mix the Filling
Stir the melted butter, sugar, and cinnamon until well blended. The mixture should look smooth and sweet.
This filling is the heart of the dessert. Make sure there are no dry pockets of cinnamon.
Step 12: Spread the Filling
Spoon the cinnamon mixture over the crescent roll dough. Begin spreading it across the surface.
Use a spatula or the back of a spoon. Work gently so you do not pull up the dough.
Step 13: Cover the Dough Evenly
Spread the filling over every inch of the dough. Each bite should get cinnamon sweetness.
Do not leave large bare spots. The even layer helps the pie bake with consistent flavor.
Step 14: Add Optional Fruit If Desired
If using chopped apples, pears, or berries, add them to the filling area. Spread them evenly.
This step is optional. Fruit gives the pie a different flavor and texture.
Step 15: Add Optional Mix-Ins If Desired
If using chopped pecans, walnuts, chocolate chips, or raisins, scatter them over the filling. Keep the additions even.
This is also optional. The pie is delicious plain, but mix-ins can make it more personal.
Step 16: Bake the Pie
Slide the baking dish into the preheated oven. Bake for about 20 minutes.
Keep an eye on it as it bakes. Look for a lovely golden brown color on top.
Step 17: Check the Color
The pie is ready when the top looks golden brown. The dough should be baked and the cinnamon filling should smell warm.
Do not rush the baking step. The golden color is part of what makes the dessert inviting.
Step 18: Remove from the Oven
Carefully remove the baking dish from the oven. The filling will be hot.
Set it on a safe surface. Let it cool for a few minutes before glazing.
Step 19: Start the Glaze
While the pie cools slightly, make the glaze. Set out a small bowl.
The glaze comes together quickly. It should be ready by the time the pie has cooled a little.
Step 20: Add the Powdered Sugar
Add ¼ cup powdered sugar to the bowl. This is the sweet base of the glaze.
Powdered sugar gives the glaze a smooth finish. It also creates that classic drizzle.
Step 21: Add the Milk
Add 1 tablespoon milk. Any kind works.
Use almond milk if you need a dairy-free option. Oat milk or another non-dairy milk can also fit a dairy-free version.
Step 22: Add the Vanilla
Add ½ teaspoon vanilla extract. Pure vanilla is best, but imitation will do in a bind.
Vanilla gives the glaze extra flavor. It makes the simple topping taste more complete.
Step 23: Stir the Glaze
Stir the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. The glaze should be pourable but not too runny.
If it looks too thick, stir a little more until it loosens. If it looks too thin, let it settle before drizzling.
Step 24: Drizzle the Glaze
Once the pie has cooled for a bit, drizzle the glaze over the top. Let it fall over the cinnamon surface.
This is the finishing touch. The glaze adds sweetness and makes the pie look beautiful.
Step 25: Add Caramel If Desired
If using caramel sauce, drizzle it over the glaze. This makes the dessert more indulgent.
This step is optional. Caramel pairs beautifully with cinnamon and sugar.
Step 26: Slice and Serve
Slice the Hillbilly Pie into portions. Serve it warm or at room temperature.
The pie is simple, sweet, and comforting. Add vanilla ice cream or whipped cream if desired.

Serving Ideas
Serve Hillbilly Pie warm for the coziest texture. The cinnamon filling tastes especially comforting when the pie is fresh from the oven.
It can also be served at room temperature. This makes it easy for gatherings and dessert tables.
A scoop of vanilla ice cream makes the pie feel extra special. The cold ice cream pairs nicely with the warm cinnamon flavor.
A dollop of whipped cream is another lovely option. It adds a soft, creamy finish.
This pie is perfect for sharing with family and friends. It is easy to slice and simple to serve.
For an indulgent finish, drizzle caramel sauce over the glaze. It makes the dessert richer and sweeter.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let the pie cool before sealing.
Refrigerating helps keep the leftovers fresh. Serve later warm or at room temperature.
Freezing
You can freeze slices for up to a month. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap.
Place the wrapped slices in an airtight container. This helps keep them fresh while frozen.
Make-Ahead
Hillbilly Pie can be made ahead and saved for later. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze slices for up to a month.
If freezing, wrap the slices tightly. Good wrapping helps protect the texture.
This makes the pie useful for future desserts. Pull out a slice when you want something sweet and comforting.
Helpful Notes for Best Results
Use refrigerated crescent roll dough for the easiest method. It rolls out quickly and bakes into a soft, golden base.
Press the seams together gently. This keeps the dough from separating too much while baking.
Melt the butter before mixing it with the sugar and cinnamon. Melted butter helps the filling spread evenly.
Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to cover the dough with the cinnamon mixture. Try to reach every inch.
Let the pie cool for a few minutes before glazing. This helps the glaze sit on top rather than melting away too quickly.
If you do not have unsalted butter, salted butter will work just fine. Reduce any added salt in your recipe if needed.
For a lower-calorie glaze, use a sugar alternative instead of powdered sugar. For a nut-free option, simply omit nuts.
For a dairy-free version, use coconut oil and non-dairy milk. Almond milk or oat milk can be used in the glaze.
Variations
Apple Hillbilly Pie
Add chopped apples to the filling. They give the pie a fruity twist.
Apples pair beautifully with cinnamon. This variation makes the dessert feel even cozier.
Pear Hillbilly Pie
Add chopped pears to the filling. They bring a softer fruit sweetness.
Pears make the pie taste gentle and warm. They work well with the glaze.
Berry Hillbilly Pie
Add berries to the filling. They bring brightness and color.
This variation gives the pie a fruitier flavor. It is a cheerful twist.
Puff Pastry Hillbilly Pie
Use puff pastry instead of crescent roll dough. This creates a flakier texture.
Puff pastry makes the dessert feel a little more delicate. The cinnamon filling still stays simple.
Homemade Pie Crust Hillbilly Pie
Use homemade pie crust if you do not have crescent roll dough. It gives a delicious result.
The texture will be different from crescent dough. It makes the dessert feel more traditional.
Pecan Hillbilly Pie
Add chopped pecans. They bring crunch and nutty flavor.
Pecans pair well with cinnamon and butter. They make the pie feel richer.
Walnut Hillbilly Pie
Add chopped walnuts. They give the pie a different crunch.
Walnuts help balance the sweetness. They are a good option for nut lovers.
Caramel Hillbilly Pie
Drizzle caramel sauce over the glaze. This makes the dessert more indulgent.
Caramel adds another layer of sweetness. It works well with the cinnamon filling.
Lighter Hillbilly Pie
Use a sugar substitute and low-fat milk in the glaze. This creates a lighter version.
The flavor and texture may change slightly. It is a helpful option when you want to reduce sweetness or richness.
Dairy-Free Hillbilly Pie
Use coconut oil instead of butter and non-dairy milk in the glaze. Almond milk or oat milk can be used.
This keeps the recipe dairy-free. The flavor may vary depending on the products used.
Chocolate Chip Hillbilly Pie
Add chocolate chips to the filling. They bring a sweet surprise.
Chocolate makes the pie more dessert-like. It is a fun option for family gatherings.
Raisin Hillbilly Pie
Add raisins to the filling. They bring chewy sweetness.
Raisins work well with cinnamon. They give the pie a classic cozy feel.
Brown Sugar Hillbilly Pie
Use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar. This gives the filling deeper flavor.
Brown sugar makes the cinnamon mixture taste warmer. It is a simple swap with a big effect.
Troubleshooting
The Dough Tears
Unroll the crescent dough carefully. If it tears, press it gently back together.
The dough does not need to look perfect. A rustic appearance is part of the charm.
The Seams Separate
Press the seams together before adding the filling. This helps create one solid base.
If a seam opens slightly during baking, the pie can still be served. The flavor will remain delicious.
The Filling Is Uneven
Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to spread the cinnamon mixture. Cover the dough evenly.
Every inch should get some filling. This keeps the flavor consistent.
The Pie Is Too Sweet
Serve smaller slices or pair with whipped cream. You can also use a sugar substitute in a lighter version.
Brown sugar can give a deeper flavor instead of a sharper sweetness. Adjust based on preference.
The Glaze Is Too Runny
The glaze should be pourable but not too runny. If it seems too thin, add more powdered sugar or let it settle.
Drizzle after the pie has cooled for a few minutes. This helps the glaze stay visible.
The Glaze Is Too Thick
Add a small amount of milk to loosen the glaze. Stir until smooth.
Any kind of milk works. Almond milk can be used for a dairy-free option.
The Recipe Needs to Be Dairy-Free
Use coconut oil instead of butter. Use non-dairy milk, such as almond or oat milk, for the glaze.
This is the dairy-free direction for the recipe. The flavor and texture may change slightly.
The Recipe Needs a Different Crust
Use puff pastry or homemade pie crust if you do not have crescent roll dough. Both are listed alternatives.
The texture will change. Puff pastry is flakier, while homemade pie crust gives a more traditional feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze Hillbilly Pie?
Yes, Hillbilly Pie can be frozen. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap.
Store the wrapped slices in an airtight container for up to a month. This helps keep them fresh.
What can I substitute for crescent roll dough?
Puff pastry can be used instead of crescent roll dough. Homemade pie crust is another alternative.
Both will give you a delicious result. The texture will change depending on which one you choose.
How do I make Hillbilly Pie dairy-free?
Substitute the unsalted butter with coconut oil. Use a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk for the glaze.
These swaps make the recipe dairy-free. The flavor and texture may vary slightly.
Can I add fruits to the filling?
Yes, chopped apples, pears, or berries can be added to the filling. They give the pie a fruity twist.
Fruit enhances the flavor of the pie. It also adds color and texture.
Can I add nuts?
Yes, chopped pecans or walnuts can be added. They bring crunch to the filling.
For a nut-free option, simply omit nuts. The cinnamon filling is still delicious on its own.
Can I add chocolate?
Yes, chocolate chips can be added to the filling. They give the pie a sweet surprise.
Chocolate makes the dessert richer. It is a fun variation for gatherings.
How long do leftovers last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let the pie cool first.
For longer storage, freeze slices for up to a month. Wrap them tightly to keep them fresh.
What should I serve with Hillbilly Pie?
Serve it warm or at room temperature. Add vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on the side for an extra touch.
Caramel sauce can also be drizzled over the glaze. This makes the dessert more indulgent.
Why This Recipe Works So Well
Hillbilly Pie (Poor Man’s Pie) works so well because it uses a few everyday ingredients in a way that feels deeply comforting. Crescent roll dough gives the base, while butter, sugar, and cinnamon create the warm filling.
The recipe is quick, which makes it practical. With 15 minutes of prep and about 20 minutes of baking, dessert can be ready without much stress.
The glaze makes the pie feel finished. Powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla turn into a smooth drizzle that adds sweetness and shine.
It is also easy to adapt. Brown sugar, margarine, almond milk, puff pastry, homemade pie crust, apples, pears, berries, pecans, walnuts, caramel sauce, sugar substitutes, low-fat milk, chocolate chips, raisins, coconut oil, and oat milk all create different versions.
The dessert has the kind of flavor that feels tied to family tables. Cinnamon, buttery dough, and sweet glaze are simple, but they carry a lot of warmth.
Most of all, this pie works because it reminds us that simple food can still feel special. It does not need to be fancy to bring people together.
Final Thoughts
Hillbilly Pie (Poor Man’s Pie) is a warm, cinnamon-sweet dessert made with refrigerated crescent roll dough, melted butter, sugar, cinnamon, and a quick vanilla glaze. It is simple, budget-friendly, cozy, and full of the kind of flavor that makes the kitchen feel welcoming.
Serve it warm or at room temperature with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce, and let its easy charm do the rest. Whether you make it for a family gathering, a quiet night in, or a dessert that brings back old memories, this pie proves that the simplest recipes often stay with us the longest.
Hillbilly Pie (Poor Man’s Pie)

Sweet, buttery, and warmly spiced, this Hillbilly Pie (Poor Man’s Pie) uses crescent roll dough with a simple cinnamon-sugar filling and a vanilla glaze. It is an easy American dessert for casual family treats, quick baking, or anytime you want something warm, simple, and sweet without a complicated prep.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Course: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
- Servings: 8 pieces
- Calories: 250 kcal
Equipment
- oven
- baking dish
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 1 can crescent roll dough 8 oz
For the Filling
- ¼ cup unsalted butter melted
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Crescent Dough
Roll out the crescent roll dough in a baking dish. Spread it evenly so it forms the base of the pie.
Step 3: Mix the Cinnamon Filling
In a bowl, mix melted butter, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon. Stir until the filling is evenly combined.
Step 4: Spread the Filling
Spread the cinnamon-sugar butter mixture over the dough. Cover the surface as evenly as possible before baking.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
Step 6: Make the Glaze
Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to make a glaze. Stir until smooth.
Step 7: Drizzle and Serve
Drizzle the glaze on top. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
- You can add nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Hillbilly Pie (Poor Man’s Pie) warm when you want the crescent dough soft and the cinnamon filling cozy. It also works at room temperature, making it easy to slice into 8 pieces for a simple dessert tray.
The vanilla glaze adds a sweet finish over the golden baked dough. You can add nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor, exactly as noted.
Storage
How to Store
The recipe does not provide specific storage instructions or storage duration, so no exact storage time is added here.
Best Texture Tip
Serve the pie warm or at room temperature. Both serving options are included in the recipe and work well with the soft crescent dough and sweet glaze.
Glaze Tip
Mix the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth before drizzling. Add the glaze after baking so it sits on top of the golden crust.
Flavor Tip
You can add nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor if desired. No specific quantity is provided, so no amount is added here.

Fernando is the creator and writer behind the food blog Eating with your Hands. Living and working in cities like Paris, Barcelona, and Berlin, and being married to a Canadian foodie, has given Fernando a passion and interest in food and inspired him to run EWYH.