Maple Pecan Sticky Buns

Short Description

Maple Pecan Sticky Buns are a deliciously sweet and sticky breakfast treat featuring soft, fluffy dough, rich maple caramel sauce, and crunchy pecans. Perfect for holiday mornings, brunch gatherings, or whenever you crave a warm, indulgent pastry.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft, pillowy dough with a gooey maple pecan topping
• A perfect balance of sweetness and crunch
• Great for make-ahead preparation
• Ideal for special occasions and holiday brunches
• Easy to customize with different nuts and fillings

this Recipe

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Active dry yeast
• Granulated sugar
• Salt
• Whole milk
• Unsalted butter (melted)
• Eggs
• Brown sugar
• Maple syrup
• Heavy cream
• Chopped pecans
• Ground cinnamon
• Vanilla extract

Directions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let sit until foamy. Add melted butter, eggs, salt, and flour. Knead until smooth and elastic.
2. Let Dough Rise: Cover and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
3. Prepare the Maple Pecan Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter and mix in brown sugar, maple syrup, and heavy cream. Stir until smooth, then pour into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle chopped pecans over the mixture.
4. Roll and Fill Dough: Roll out the dough into a rectangle, brush with melted butter, and sprinkle with cinnamon and brown sugar.
5. Form Buns: Roll the dough tightly into a log and slice into 12 even pieces. Place the slices over the maple pecan mixture in the baking dish.
6. Final Rise: Cover and let rise again for 30 minutes.
7. Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
8. Invert & Serve: Let the buns cool slightly, then invert the pan onto a serving platter so the gooey topping drips over the buns. Serve warm!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 buns
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Rise Time: 1.5 hours
• Bake Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: About 2 hours

Variations

• Nut-Free Option: Omit pecans or replace with sunflower seeds.
• Extra Gooey: Drizzle with additional maple syrup after baking.
• Chocolate Lovers: Add mini chocolate chips to the filling.
• Spiced Version: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for extra warmth.
• Vegan Alternative: Use plant-based milk, butter, and egg substitutes.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Refrigeration: Keeps fresh in the fridge for up to a week.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 300°F for 10 minutes or microwave individual portions for 15-20 seconds.
• Freezing: Freeze unbaked rolls for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the dough and let the buns rise overnight in the refrigerator before baking in the morning.

Do I have to use pecans?

No, you can use walnuts, almonds, or leave the nuts out entirely.

How do I keep my sticky buns from being too dry?

Make sure not to overbake, and use enough maple syrup and butter for a moist topping.

Can I use store-bought dough?

Yes! Pre-made dough can be used as a shortcut if you’re short on time.

What’s the best way to get a caramelized topping?

Let the buns rest in the pan for a few minutes after baking, then invert them while still warm.

How can I make these more decadent?

Drizzle extra caramel sauce or add a dollop of whipped cream before serving.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Use a larger baking dish and increase baking time as needed.

Can I add a glaze on top?

Yes! A simple powdered sugar glaze with maple extract enhances the flavor.

How do I ensure an even rise?

Place the dough in a warm, draft-free environment for consistent proofing.

Can I add dried fruit?

Yes, raisins or dried cranberries make a delicious addition to the filling.

Conclusion

Maple Pecan Sticky Buns are a delightful, gooey, and indulgent breakfast treat perfect for special occasions or weekend mornings. With their soft dough, caramelized maple pecan topping, and irresistible aroma, these buns are sure to impress!

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