Best Pecan Sticky Buns Recipe

Hey there, dessert lovers!

Who’s ready for a sweet treat? Today, I’m diving into a recipe that will make your mornings extra special.

Let me introduce you to my gooey, buttery pecan sticky buns!

They’re packed with rich flavors and topped with a sticky glaze that’s simply irresistible.

Perfect for brunch or a cozy weekend breakfast.

Get ready to indulge, because these buns are a must-try!

Preparation Time	30-45 minutes
Cooking Time	25-30 minutes
Total Time	85-120 minutes
Level of Difficulty	Medium

Ingredients

For the dough:

• 1/2 tsp granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 cups warm milk (about 105-115°F)
• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 4 tbsp butter (room temperature for easy creaming)
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

For the filling:

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon (I use McCormick)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 4 tbsp melted butter

For the caramel topping:

• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup chopped pecans (toasted for enhanced flavor)
• 8 tbsp butter (I recommend Kerrygold)
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• pinch of salt

Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture

Start by adding the yeast to the warm (not hot) milk along with 1/2 teaspoon of sugar.

Let this mixture sit for 5 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating that the yeast is activated.

Step 2: Combine Dough Ingredients

In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the flour, salt, and white sugar (dough ingredients).

Pour the frothy yeast mixture into the dry ingredients and use a dough hook to knead until combined.

Gradually add 4 tablespoons of softened butter, 1 tablespoon at a time.

Continue kneading on low speed for 5 minutes.

Step 3: Rest the Dough

Use your hands to form the dough into a ball and place it back into the mixing bowl.

Cover the bowl and let it rest in a warm spot in your kitchen for 30 minutes or until the dough has doubled in size.

Step 4: Shape and Fill the Dough

Dump the risen dough out onto a generously floured surface.

Roll the dough out to a 10×20 inch rectangle.

Spread the melted butter over the dough, followed by sprinkling the brown sugar, white sugar, and cinnamon evenly to the edges (filling ingredients).

Roll the dough up tightly.

Step 5: Cut and Prepare the Buns

Cut the rolled dough into 8 pieces (or 12 for smaller rolls).

Set these pieces aside while you prepare the caramel sauce.

Step 6: Make the Caramel Sauce and Assemble

Heat a small saucepan over low heat and add the butter, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt (all the topping ingredients minus the pecans).

Bring to a low boil, then reduce the heat and whisk until the sugar has dissolved, which will take a few minutes.

Lightly grease a 9×12 baking pan with butter.

Pour the caramel sauce into the pan and sprinkle with pecans.

Place the sticky buns in the caramel pecan sauce.

Step 7: Final Rise and Baking

Cover the baking pan and let the buns rise in a warm place for another 30 minutes or until they have visibly puffed up.

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Place the pan in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the middle buns no longer look doughy.

Step 8: Serve

Remove the sticky buns from the oven and let them rest for 15 minutes.

Carefully turn the baking pan over onto another pan lined with parchment paper (be cautious as the caramel sauce will be very hot).

Serve and enjoy your delicious sticky buns!