Caramel Pecan Sticky Buns Recipe

If you have a soft spot for sweet, gooey treats that feel like a warm hug, then you are in for a real delight with this Caramel Pecan Sticky Buns Recipe. Imagine tender, fluffy dough rolled with a fragrant cinnamon and apple pie spice filling, topped generously with toasted pecans and drenched in a luscious caramel glaze that just pools perfectly in the pan. These sticky buns are the ultimate comfort food—perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any time you need to satisfy that craving for sticky sweetness with a satisfying crunch. Trust me, once you try these Caramel Pecan Sticky Buns, they just might become your new favorite indulgence to whip up for family and friends.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To craft these irresistible sticky buns, the ingredients might seem simple but each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and appearance. The rich butter and sugars work in harmony to create that signature caramel stickiness, while the pecans add a wonderful crunch and depth.

• Active dry yeast: This magical ingredient gives your dough its rise and airy texture.
• Warm water: Activates the yeast and helps create the perfect dough consistency.
• All-purpose flour: The foundation for the soft and tender dough that holds everything together.
• Eggs: Add richness and moisture to the dough for a tender crumb.
• Vegetable shortening: Adds softness and helps the dough stay moist.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and caramel topping to perfection.
• Kosher salt: Balances sweetness and accentuates the flavors.
• Unsalted butter: Essential for both dough and the decadent caramel and cinnamon filling.
• Dark brown sugar: Brings a deep, molasses-like flavor to the topping and filling.
• Ground cinnamon & apple pie spice: Together, they give that warm, irresistible fragrance and flavor.
• Dark corn syrup: Helps create a smooth, glossy caramel glaze.
• Chopped toasted pecans: The star crunch element that complements the gooey caramel.

How to Make Caramel Pecan Sticky Buns Recipe

Step 1: Activate the yeast

Start by lightly whisking the active dry yeast with a quarter cup of warm water (around 110°F to 115°F). Let this mixture rest for 5 minutes. You’ll notice it start to foam — this means your yeast is alive and ready to make the dough rise beautifully.

Step 2: Combine initial dough ingredients

In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, mix the frothy yeast mixture, the remaining warm water, 2 cups of flour, eggs, melted vegetable shortening, granulated sugar, and kosher salt. Beat this blend for about 2 minutes until it starts forming a soft dough. This first mix sets the stage for a dough that’s soft but sturdy enough to handle rolling and filling.

Step 3: Incorporate remaining flour

Gradually add the remaining flour, approximately 2½ to 3 cups, mixing just until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl and becomes elastic but still soft to the touch. Avoid overmixing here to keep your buns light and tender.

Step 4: First rise

Lightly grease a glass bowl with nonstick spray or butter and place your dough inside, turning it so it’s coated on all sides. Cover and set it in a warm spot or proofing oven to rise until doubled in size, around 1 to 1½ hours. This proofing process gives you that airy, fluffy texture we all adore in sticky buns.

Step 5: Refrigerate overnight

After the dough has risen, punch it down gently, cover, and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight. This slow fermentation enhances the flavor and improves the dough’s texture. Plus, it’s a great way to prep ahead.

Step 6: Prepare the pans and pecan topping

Remove the dough from the fridge and give it another gentle punch. Divide it in half and keep covered with plastic wrap so it doesn’t dry out. Meanwhile, whisk together melted butter, granulated sugar, dark brown sugar, corn syrup, salt, and water to form the pecan topping. Pour half into two greased 9-inch pans, sprinkle with toasted chopped pecans evenly. This rich topping will become the sticky cap that caramelizes beautifully during baking.

Step 7: Make the cinnamon sugar filling

Before rolling out the dough, melt 1½ cups unsalted butter and combine it with granulated sugar, dark brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and apple pie spice. This spiced, sweet mixture is what you’ll brush over your rolled-out dough to create that iconic sticky bun swirl bursting with flavor.

Step 8: Roll, fill, and slice

Roll the dough halves into large rectangles roughly 14×16 inches. Brush each sheet generously with your cinnamon sugar filling. Roll up each sheet tightly from the long side, then slice into 8 equal rolls per pan. Arranging these rolls precisely on top of the pecan topping means every bun will soak up that delicious caramel glaze as they bake.

Step 9: Second rise and bake

Allow the assembled buns to rise in their pans, covered, for about 1 hour until puffed and nearly doubled. Bake at 350°F for 35 minutes until golden brown and sticky sweet. Once out of the oven, invert the pans onto serving plates so the gooey pecan caramel layer is on top. The result is picture-perfect sticky buns with a to-die-for caramel crust.

How to Serve Caramel Pecan Sticky Buns Recipe

Garnishes

While these buns are stunning on their own, a light drizzle of warm vanilla icing or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt can elevate the experience by adding a subtle contrast to the caramel’s sweetness. Fresh pecan halves on top add extra crunch and visually enhance the presentation.

Side Dishes

Serve these buns alongside hot coffee, chai tea, or a creamy latte for a cozy breakfast. For brunch, pair them with fresh fruit salad or a crisp green salad with tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the caramel pecan flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, arrange your sticky buns in a circular bundt pan for a stunning pull-apart presentation. You can also try individual ramekins for single servings or add a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream on top for a decadent dessert twist that everyone will rave about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (and you might!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps the sticky buns soft and moist. Reheat slices gently to revive that gooey texture.

Freezing

Caramel Pecan Sticky Buns freeze beautifully. Wrap individual buns tightly in plastic wrap and foil or place in freezer bags. They last up to 3 months frozen. When you’re ready, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

To bring your sticky buns back to life, warm them in a 325°F oven for about 10-15 minutes or microwave briefly. The caramel topping will soften again, and the dough will regain its buttery, tender richness.

FAQs

Can I use pecans that are not toasted?

While you can use untoasted pecans, toasting them first really amps up their flavor and crunch, giving your sticky buns that irresistible nutty depth that perfectly complements the caramel.

Is it possible to make the dough without a stand mixer?

Absolutely! You can mix the ingredients by hand with a strong wooden spoon and then knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth, though a stand mixer does make it easier and quicker.

Can I substitute the vegetable shortening?

You can use softened unsalted butter instead, but vegetable shortening helps the dough stay moist and tender; butter might add extra flavor but may change the texture slightly.

How sweet are these sticky buns?

They have a rich, balanced sweetness thanks to the combination of granulated and brown sugars with the caramel topping, accentuated by the warm spices in the filling. They’re indulgently sweet but not overpowering.

Can I make smaller or larger buns?

Yes! Adjust the size of your slices when rolling the dough. Smaller buns bake a little faster and are great for parties, while larger ones give a more substantial treat. Just keep an eye on the baking time.

Final Thoughts

Making the Caramel Pecan Sticky Buns Recipe is truly a rewarding experience that fills your home with the most comforting aromas and your heart with joy. They are perfect for sharing, celebrating, or simply treating yourself to something special any day of the week. Don’t hesitate to get a little sticky and create these delicious buns that will quickly become a beloved staple in your baking repertoire. You absolutely deserve this kind of homemade sweetness in your life!

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