Save Soft pillowy buns swirled with cinnamon sugar and pecans baked in a luscious honey caramel sauce for a decadent breakfast or dessert treat.
I remember the first time I baked these sticky buns the sweet aroma instantly filled my home making it feel cozy and warm.
Ingredients
- Dough: 3 1/4 cups (400 g) all-purpose flour 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast 1/2 tsp salt 3/4 cup (180 ml) whole milk warmed to 110°F/43°C 1/4 cup (60 g) unsalted butter melted 2 large eggs
- Filling: 1/2 cup (100 g) light brown sugar packed 2 tsp ground cinnamon 1/4 cup (60 g) unsalted butter softened 1 cup (110 g) pecans roughly chopped
- Honey Caramel Sauce: 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter 1/2 cup (120 ml) honey 1/2 cup (100 g) light brown sugar packed 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream 1/2 tsp salt 1 cup (110 g) pecan halves
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large bowl combine warm milk yeast and a pinch of sugar Let stand 5–10 minutes until foamy
- Step 2:
- Add melted butter eggs remaining sugar and salt Mix well Gradually add flour mixing until a soft dough forms
- Step 3:
- Knead dough on a floured surface for 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic Place in a greased bowl cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled about 1 hour
- Step 4:
- Prepare the honey caramel sauce In a saucepan over medium heat melt butter Add honey brown sugar and salt stir until smooth Pour in heavy cream and simmer for 2 minutes stirring constantly Remove from heat and stir in pecan halves Pour sauce into a greased 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish
- Step 5:
- Punch down risen dough Roll out on a floured surface to a 16x12-inch (40x30 cm) rectangle
- Step 6:
- Spread softened butter evenly over dough Sprinkle with brown sugar cinnamon and chopped pecans
- Step 7:
- Starting from the long side tightly roll up the dough into a log Slice into 12 equal pieces
- Step 8:
- Arrange buns cut side down over the honey caramel sauce in the baking dish Cover and let rise for 30 minutes until puffy
- Step 9:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) Bake buns for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through
- Step 10:
- Cool for 5 minutes then invert the pan onto a serving platter so the sticky pecan topping is on top Serve warm
Save Making these sticky buns is a family tradition that brings us together every holiday morning.
Notes
For extra flavor add a pinch of ground cardamom or nutmeg to the filling These buns pair beautifully with strong coffee or black tea
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl Measuring cups and spoons Saucepan Rolling pin 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish Sharp knife or dough cutter Stand mixer optional
Allergen Information
Contains gluten (wheat) eggs milk (dairy) tree nuts (pecans) Always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens
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Enjoy these sticky buns fresh from the oven for the best experience they are sure to impress everyone.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I achieve soft, pillowy buns?
Use warm milk and active dry yeast to create a soft dough. Knead properly until elastic and allow the dough to rise fully for a light texture.
- → What is the purpose of honey in the caramel sauce?
Honey adds natural sweetness and depth alongside buttery caramel, giving the buns a rich, glossy finish.
- → Can I substitute pecans with other nuts?
Yes, walnuts or other tree nuts can be used to vary the texture and flavor while maintaining crunch.
- → How should I store leftover buns?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate and gently reheat before serving.
- → What variations can enhance the filling flavor?
Adding a pinch of ground cardamom or nutmeg to the cinnamon sugar filling can introduce warm, aromatic notes.