Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The combination of maple syrup, caramelized brown sugar, and toasted pecans is irresistible, and when paired with the light, airy dough, these sticky buns become a mouthwatering delight. The dough is rich and buttery, while the maple caramel sauce is the perfect balance of sweetness and richness. These sticky buns are a perfect way to kickstart your morning or finish off a special meal. Plus, they’re easy to make and always look impressive when served.
Ingredients
For the Yeast Dough:
- 1 cup whole milk (warm, about 105°F)
- 1½ teaspoons active dry yeast
- 4½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup white sugar
- 1½ teaspoons salt
- 10 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 3 large eggs
For the Toasted Pecans:
- 2½ cups pecan pieces (roughly chopped)
For the Maple Caramel:
- ½ cup maple syrup
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (or vanilla bean paste)
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
For the Roll Filling:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground cardamom
- 2 teaspoons orange zest (finely grated)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Yeast Dough:
- Activate the Yeast: Warm the milk in the microwave for 30 seconds to 1 minute until it’s warm (but not hot, around 105°F). Add the yeast and let it proof for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Mix the Dough: In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine flour, sugar, salt, and butter pieces. Make a well in the center and pour in the eggs and the yeast/milk mixture. Mix on low speed or with a large spoon until the dough is sticky and well combined.
- Knead the Dough: Continue mixing until the dough pulls cleanly away from the sides of the bowl. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead lightly into a small ball.
- Let It Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Toasted Pecans:
- Toast the Pecans: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spread the pecans on a rimmed baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes until golden and fragrant. Set aside to cool.
Maple Caramel Sticky Topping:
- Prepare the Caramel: In a small saucepan, combine maple syrup, vanilla, brown sugar, and butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring often, until it comes to a boil. Boil for 30 seconds, then remove from heat and pour into a greased 9×13-inch pan. Sprinkle the toasted pecans evenly over the caramel sauce. Set aside.
Roll Filling:
- Prepare the Filling: In a small bowl, combine cinnamon, cardamom, orange zest, and brown sugar. Massage with your fingertips until the zest is well incorporated into the sugar.
Assembly:
- Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll the dough into a large rectangle (about 20×9 inches). Dust with flour as needed.
- Add Butter and Filling: Brush the rolled dough with melted butter, then scatter the cinnamon-cardamom mixture evenly over the surface. Press the filling gently into the dough.
- Roll the Dough: Roll the dough into a tight log, pinching the seam to seal it.
- Cut the Rolls: Using a serrated knife, cut the log into 12 even rolls.
- Place in the Pan: Arrange the rolls in the prepared pan over the pecan topping, leaving about an inch of space between each one. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and let them rise for about 45-60 minutes until doubled in size.
Baking:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Bake the Rolls: Once the buns have risen, bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown on top and cooked through. The rolls should be bubbly and caramelized on the edges.
Finishing:
- Rest and Invert: Remove from the oven and let the buns rest in the pan for 5 minutes. Run a butter knife along the edges to loosen the rolls, then place a wire rack over the pan and carefully invert the entire pan onto the rack. Let the buns cool slightly before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 16 slices
- Prep Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including rise times)
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Variations
- Add Fruit: Try adding fresh fruit, such as sliced apples or pears, to the filling for a fruity twist.
- Nut-Free Version: Omit the pecans and substitute with toasted coconut flakes or granola for crunch.
- Vegan Option: Use plant-based butter and a dairy-free milk substitute to make the recipe vegan-friendly.
Storage/Reheating
- Storing: Store leftover sticky buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the baked buns. Let them cool completely, then wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.
- Reheating: To reheat, microwave individual buns for 20-30 seconds or place them in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes.
FAQs
Can I make these buns ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the sticky buns the night before, cover them tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let them come to room temperature before baking.
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of a mixture of all-purpose and bread flour?
Yes, all-purpose flour works fine for this recipe, though bread flour helps create a slightly chewier texture.
Can I add other spices to the filling?
Absolutely! Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg, ginger, or cloves for a spiced-up version.
Can I make these sticky buns without pecans?
Yes, if you prefer, you can skip the pecans or substitute them with walnuts, almonds, or other nuts of your choice.
How can I make the sticky buns less sweet?
If you prefer a less sweet version, you can reduce the amount of maple syrup and brown sugar in the topping.
Conclusion
Maple Caramel Pecan Sticky Buns are an indulgent, irresistible treat that combines the richness of maple syrup, the warmth of cinnamon and cardamom, and the crunch of toasted pecans. These buns are perfect for any special occasion, from holidays to brunch gatherings, or even just a weekend treat. With their soft, fluffy texture and rich caramel topping, these sticky buns will leave everyone craving more!
Maple Caramel Pecan Sticky Buns
Maple Caramel Pecan Sticky Buns are the ultimate indulgence! Soft, fluffy rolls drenched in a rich maple caramel sauce, with cinnamon, cardamom, and orange zest for added depth. Topped with toasted pecans, these sticky buns are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Easy to make and packed with flavor, they will become a go-to recipe for your next special occasion or cozy gathering.
- Prep Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including rise times)
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 16 slices
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert, Brunch
- Method: Baking, Yeast Dough
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Yeast Dough:
1 cup whole milk (warm, about 105°F)
1½ teaspoons active dry yeast
4½ cups all-purpose flour
1/3 cup white sugar
1½ teaspoons salt
10 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into 1-inch pieces
3 large eggs
For the Toasted Pecans:
2½ cups pecan pieces (roughly chopped)
For the Maple Caramel Sticky Topping:
½ cup maple syrup
2 teaspoons vanilla extract (or vanilla bean paste)
½ cup packed light brown sugar
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
For the Roll Filling:
4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
1/3 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground cardamom
2 teaspoons orange zest (finely grated)
Instructions
-
Activate the Yeast: Warm the milk and add the yeast. Let it proof for 5 minutes until foamy.
-
Mix the Dough: Combine flour, sugar, salt, and butter in a bowl. Add eggs and the yeast/milk mixture and mix to form a sticky dough.
-
Knead the Dough: Knead the dough until it pulls away from the bowl and forms a ball. Let it rise for 1-1.5 hours.
-
Toast the Pecans: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake pecans for 8-10 minutes until golden and fragrant.
-
Prepare the Maple Caramel: Combine maple syrup, vanilla, brown sugar, and butter in a saucepan. Boil for 30 seconds, then pour into a greased 9×13-inch pan. Top with toasted pecans.
-
Prepare the Filling: Mix cinnamon, cardamom, orange zest, and brown sugar.
-
Roll the Dough: Roll the dough into a 20×9 inch rectangle, spread with melted butter, and sprinkle the filling. Roll up tightly, then cut into 12 rolls.
-
Let the Rolls Rise: Place the rolls on the caramel and let them rise for 45-60 minutes.
-
Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F and bake the rolls for 30-35 minutes until golden and bubbly.
-
Invert and Serve: Let the rolls rest for 5 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack. Serve warm.
Notes
Add Fruit: Sliced apples or pears can be added to the filling for a fruity twist.
Nut-Free Version: Substitute the pecans with toasted coconut flakes or granola for a crunchy topping.
Vegan Option: Use plant-based butter and non-dairy milk to make these buns vegan-friendly.
