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Maple Caramel Pecan Sticky Buns

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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.

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

  1. Activate the Yeast: Warm the milk and add the yeast. Let it proof for 5 minutes until foamy.

  2. 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.

  3. 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.

  4. Toast the Pecans: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake pecans for 8-10 minutes until golden and fragrant.

  5. 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.

  6. Prepare the Filling: Mix cinnamon, cardamom, orange zest, and brown sugar.

  7. 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.

  8. Let the Rolls Rise: Place the rolls on the caramel and let them rise for 45-60 minutes.

  9. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F and bake the rolls for 30-35 minutes until golden and bubbly.

  10. 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.