Caramel Pecan Sticky Buns

There’s nothing quite like waking up to the irresistible aroma of freshly baked Caramel Pecan Sticky Buns filling your kitchen. These sweet, gooey, and nutty treats are the perfect way to start any morning or celebrate a special occasion. Soft, fluffy dough rolls generously swirled with cinnamon sugar, topped with a rich caramel glaze and crunchy pecans, create a decadent bite that’s both comforting and indulgent. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting your baking journey, this recipe is straightforward, rewarding, and will quickly become a beloved staple in your recipe collection.

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

• Rich, gooey caramel topping: The blend of brown sugar, corn syrup, and butter creates a luscious caramel that perfectly coats the pecans and buns.
• Soft, fluffy dough: Made with warm milk, yeast, and eggs, these buns rise beautifully, giving you that pillowy texture every sticky bun should have.
• Perfect balance of flavors: The sweetness of the caramel and brown sugar pairs beautifully with the warm cinnamon and crunchy pecans.
• Optional savory twist: Adding chopped turkey bacon gives these sticky buns a subtle smoky flavor that makes them truly unique and irresistible.
• Make ahead and freeze: You can prepare your buns in advance and bake fresh whenever you want a special treat.

Ingredient Rundown

• 4 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure for the dough; make sure it’s fresh for the best rise.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the dough itself.
• 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast: The magic that makes the dough rise and become fluffy.
• 1 cup whole milk, warmed: Feeds the yeast and creates a tender crumb.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness to the dough and to the caramel topping.
• 2 large eggs: Help bind the dough and add moisture and richness.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor with a subtle sweetness.
• 1/2 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and strengthens the dough.
• 1 cup packed brown sugar: Essential for that deep caramel flavor in the topping.
• 1/2 cup corn syrup: Keeps the caramel smooth and sticky.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter: For the caramel topping’s richness.
• 1 cup pecans, chopped: Adds crunch and nutty flavor to the sticky buns.
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon: Mixed into the filling for warm spice notes.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Combined with cinnamon for the filling’s sweetness.
• 1/4 cup turkey bacon, cooked and chopped (optional): For a smoky, savory contrast that elevates the classic sticky bun experience.

Setup & Equipment

• Large mixing bowl: To combine and knead the dough comfortably.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For precise ingredient measurements.
• Stand mixer with dough hook (optional): Makes kneading easier but you can knead by hand.
• 9×13 inch baking pan: Ideal for baking the sticky buns evenly.
• Small saucepan: For preparing the caramel pecan topping.
• Rolling pin: To roll out the dough for filling.
• Sharp knife or dental floss: To cut the rolled dough into even buns.
• Kitchen towel or plastic wrap: To cover the dough while it rises.

Make Caramel Pecan Sticky Buns: A Simple Method

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by warming the whole milk until it’s just about 110°F (warm to the touch but not hot). In a large bowl, combine the warm milk with the active dry yeast and 1 tablespoon of the granulated sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture is frothy and bubbly, indicating the yeast is active.

Next, add the melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, remaining sugar, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir to combine. Gradually add the all-purpose flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms. If you’re using a stand mixer, switch to the dough hook and knead on medium speed for about 7-10 minutes. If kneading by hand, turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic, adding flour as needed to prevent sticking.

Step 2: First Rise

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 to 1 ½ hours.

Step 3: Prepare the Caramel Pecan Topping

While the dough is rising, prepare your sticky bun topping. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, corn syrup, and butter. Stir constantly until the mixture comes to a gentle boil and the sugar is fully dissolved. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped pecans. Pour this mixture evenly into the bottom of your greased 9×13 inch baking pan.

Step 4: Roll and Fill the Dough

Once the dough has doubled, punch it down to release air. Lightly flour your work surface and roll the dough out into a large rectangle, about 16×12 inches. In a small bowl, combine cinnamon and granulated sugar for the filling. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the dough.

If you’re using the optional turkey bacon, sprinkle the cooked and chopped pieces evenly over the cinnamon sugar layer.

Step 5: Shape and Cut the Buns

Starting at the long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Use a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss to cut the log into 12 equal rolls. Arrange them cut side down in the prepared baking pan on top of the caramel pecan mixture, leaving a little space between each roll.

Step 6: Second Rise

Cover the pan with a towel and let the rolls rise again in a warm spot until nearly doubled, about 30-45 minutes.

Step 7: Bake and Serve

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the sticky buns for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly around the edges. Remove from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before carefully inverting the pan onto a large serving platter. The caramel pecan topping will drizzle over the buns, creating that signature sticky finish.

Make It Year-Round

• Freeze unbaked rolls after shaping; thaw overnight and bake fresh for a weekend treat.
• Experiment with different nuts like walnuts or almonds for new flavor profiles.
• Swap pecans for dried fruit or add a drizzle of cream cheese glaze for extra indulgence.
• Try incorporating seasonal spices or swapping cinnamon for ginger during colder months.

Missteps & Fixes

• Dough too sticky: Gradually add more flour, a tablespoon at a time, but avoid making the dough too stiff.
• Sticky buns not caramelizing properly: Ensure you cook the caramel topping long enough for the sugar to dissolve fully; don’t skip the corn syrup as it prevents crystallization.
• Dough not rising: Check your yeast is fresh and the milk isn’t too hot or cold. A warm, draft-free spot helps the rise.
• Sticky buns too dense: Don’t over-knead the dough, and make sure it has enough time to rise twice.

Best Ways to Store

Store leftover Caramel Pecan Sticky Buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave to refresh their gooey texture. To reheat, cover loosely with foil and warm at 300°F for 10-15 minutes or microwave individual buns for 20-30 seconds.

Caramel Pecan Sticky Buns FAQs

Can I make these sticky buns without the turkey bacon?

Absolutely! The turkey bacon is an optional addition that adds a savory contrast, but the classic caramel and pecans alone make for an incredibly delicious sticky bun. Feel free to omit it for a purely sweet treat.

What’s the best way to warm the milk for the dough?

Warm the milk gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until it reaches about 110°F, which feels warm to the touch but not hot. This temperature activates the yeast without killing it.

Can I substitute the corn syrup in the caramel topping?

If you don’t have corn syrup, you can use honey or a light golden syrup. These alternatives help prevent crystallization and maintain the sticky texture, though the flavor may vary slightly.

How do I prevent the sticky buns from sticking to the pan?

Generously butter or grease your baking pan before adding the caramel pecan mixture. The butter not only prevents sticking but also enriches the caramel topping’s flavor.

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• Pumpkin Cookies With Cream Cheese Frosting – Soft, spiced pumpkin cookies topped with rich cream cheese frosting for a seasonal delight.

In Closing

Caramel Pecan Sticky Buns bring the perfect combination of soft, sweet, and crunchy textures to your breakfast table. The process of making them from scratch is rewarding and surprisingly simple, delivering bakery-quality results. Whether you enjoy them fresh from the oven or warmed up for an afternoon treat, these sticky buns are sure to become a favorite for family, friends, or weekend gatherings. Don’t forget to try the optional turkey bacon for a delightful twist that balances sweetness with a hint of smoky savoriness. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to fill your home with the sweet, nutty aroma of these irresistible Caramel Pecan Sticky Buns.

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