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Caramel Pecan Sticky Buns

Rich, soft sticky buns crowned with caramel and pecans, perfect for breakfast or a sweet treat.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 12 buns
Course: Breakfast, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Dough Ingredients
  • 1 cup warm milk (about 115 degrees)
  • 2.5 tsps dry instant yeast Quick rise variety preferred
  • 0.5 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/3 cup melted butter
  • 2 pcs eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 4.5 cups all-purpose flour
Filling Ingredients
  • 1/2 cup softened butter
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 Tbsps cinnamon
Caramel Topping Ingredients
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 2/3 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup chopped pecans

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Warm the milk to about 115°F to help the yeast activate.
  2. Grease a 9x13 inch pan and set aside.
  3. Chop pecans if needed.
Making the Dough
  1. In a large bowl, stir warm milk and yeast, and let sit for 1–2 minutes.
  2. Add 1/2 cup granulated sugar, melted butter, eggs, and salt; mix well.
  3. Add 2 cups of flour and stir to combine, then add remaining flour 1 cup at a time until the dough is soft but not sticky.
  4. Knead by hand for 5–7 minutes or use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 4–5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  5. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled.
Making the Filling
  1. Mix 1/2 cup softened butter with 1 cup packed brown sugar, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and 2 Tbsps cinnamon until smooth; set aside.
Assembly
  1. After the dough rises, roll it on a floured surface into a rectangle about 16x12 inches.
  2. Spread the filling evenly over the dough.
  3. Roll the dough tightly from the long side into a log.
  4. Cut the log into 12 equal rolls and place them cut side up in the greased pan.
  5. For the caramel topping, heat 1 cup brown sugar with 2/3 cup heavy cream in a small saucepan on low; stir until smooth and thick.
  6. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup chopped pecans. Pour this mixture into the bottom of the pan before placing the rolls on top.
  7. Cover the pan with a towel and let the rolls rise for 30–45 minutes until puffed.
  8. Preheat the oven to 350°F and bake the rolls for 25–30 minutes until golden and set.
  9. Let cool for 5 minutes, then invert the pan onto a tray to serve.

Notes

Serve warm for the best flavor and texture. For a balanced meal, serve with Greek yogurt or fresh berries. These buns can be stored or frozen easily for meal prep purposes.