Save Soft, pillowy buns swirled with cinnamon sugar and pecans, baked in a luscious honey caramel sauce for a decadent breakfast or dessert treat.
This recipe has become a weekend favorite in my house, bringing warmth and sweetness to our mornings.
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 My family loves gathering around the table to share these sticky buns warm from the oven, making every morning special.
Notes
For extra flavor, add a pinch of ground cardamom or nutmeg to the filling. Pairs 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 for the best texture and flavor every time.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I ensure the dough rises properly?
Use warm milk around 110°F (43°C) and fresh yeast. Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free area until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
- → Can I substitute pecans with other nuts?
Yes, walnuts make a great alternative and provide a similar texture and flavor.
- → What is the best way to store leftover buns?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate and reheat gently before serving.
- → How can I add more spice flavors to the filling?
Adding a pinch of ground cardamom or nutmeg enhances the warm spice notes without overpowering the pecans and cinnamon.
- → What is the purpose of inverting the buns after baking?
Inverting the pan allows the sticky pecan and honey caramel topping to sit on top, adding a glossy, flavorful finish.