Go Back
Gather these simple ingredients to make your caramel pecan sticky buns. Each one plays a key role in the flavor and texture of this treat. - 2 cups all-purpose flour - 1/2 cup whole milk, warmed - 1/4 cup granulated sugar - 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted - 1 large egg - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1/2 cup pecans, chopped - 1/2 cup brown sugar - 1/4 cup corn syrup - 1/4 cup unsalted butter (for caramel) - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract These ingredients combine to create soft, fluffy buns with a rich caramel topping. The pecans add crunch and nutty flavor. You can easily find these items at your local grocery store. Make sure to use fresh yeast for the best rise. This will help your buns turn out light and fluffy. Each ingredient matters in making these sticky buns truly irresistible. To start, mix 1/2 cup of warmed milk with 1/4 cup of sugar in a small bowl. This step wakes up the yeast. Next, sprinkle 1 packet of active dry yeast on top of the mixture. Wait about 5 to 10 minutes. You will see froth forming. That froth means the yeast is active and ready to use. In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of melted butter, 1 large egg, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Pour in the frothy yeast mixture. Mix it all together until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes. Your goal is a smooth and soft dough. Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl. Cover it with a kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour. The dough should double in size. While it rises, prepare the caramel mixture. In a small saucepan, combine 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1/4 cup of corn syrup, and 1/4 cup of unsalted butter. Cook over medium heat until the butter melts and the mixture bubbles. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, then remove it from the heat. Once your dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface. Aim for a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Sprinkle 1/2 cup of chopped pecans evenly over the dough. Then, spread the caramel mixture over the rolled dough. Make sure you cover it well for that sticky goodness. Now, starting from one long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Once rolled, slice the log into 1-inch thick pieces. Place these pieces cut-side up in a greased baking dish. This will help them rise and form those beautiful buns. Cover the baking dish with a towel again. Let the buns rise for another 30 minutes. While they rise, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). After the second rise, bake the buns for 20 to 25 minutes. They should be golden brown and smell amazing. You can check for doneness by gently pressing the tops; they should spring back. Kneading is key for smooth, fluffy dough. Use a floured surface and your palms. Push, fold, and turn the dough for about five minutes. Aim for a soft, elastic feel. If the dough is too sticky, add a little flour. For the best rise, find a warm spot. A turned-off oven with the light on works great. You can also use a sunny window. The heat helps the dough grow nice and big. To get the right caramel consistency, cook over medium heat. Watch for bubbles and stir often. The mixture should be thick but pourable. If it’s too thin, cook a little longer. You can substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar for a different flavor. If you want a dairy-free option, use coconut oil instead of butter. The taste may change slightly, but it will still be delicious. These sticky buns shine with a hot cup of coffee or tea. The warm flavors blend perfectly. You can also serve with fresh fruit for a nice touch. For garnish, sprinkle extra chopped pecans on top. A light drizzle of caramel sauce adds a sweet finish. Arrange the buns on a pretty plate for a lovely presentation. {{image_2}} You can easily make these sticky buns nut-free. Just swap the pecans for seeds. Try pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds. They add crunch and flavor. You won't miss the nuts at all. This option fits those with nut allergies. Want to try new flavors? You can add chocolate chips to the dough. They melt and mix well with the caramel. Dried fruit like raisins or cranberries also works. These add a nice chew and sweetness. Experiment with your favorites for a unique twist. You can make these sticky buns vegan, too. Replace the butter with coconut oil or vegan butter. Use flax eggs instead of a real egg. Mix one tablespoon of ground flax with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken. This keeps the buns moist and tasty. To keep your caramel pecan sticky buns fresh, store them in the refrigerator. Place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. This helps to maintain their soft texture. They can last in the fridge for up to five days. If you want to enjoy them warm, just reheat them before serving. Freezing these sticky buns is easy and great for later enjoyment. First, let the buns cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about one hour. After they are frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They will stay fresh for up to three months. To reheat, take the desired number of buns out of the freezer. Allow them to thaw overnight in the fridge. You can warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes. This method keeps them soft and delicious. For the best taste and texture, always reheat your sticky buns. Use the oven for the best results. Preheat it to 350°F. Place the buns on a baking sheet and cover them with foil. This prevents them from drying out. Heat for about 10-15 minutes. If you prefer the microwave, heat for 15-20 seconds. But remember, the oven gives a better result. Enjoy your gooey, caramel goodness! Yes, you can prepare them ahead of time. Make the dough and let it rise. Then, shape the buns but do not bake them. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and place it in the fridge overnight. In the morning, let them rise for about 30 minutes. After that, you can bake them as usual. This way, you get fresh sticky buns with less work in the morning. If you need a substitute for active dry yeast, you have options. You can use instant yeast, which works well. Use the same amount as active dry yeast. You can also use fresh yeast; for each packet, use about 0.6 ounces. Remember to adjust the liquid in the recipe if you use fresh yeast, as it contains moisture. To check if the sticky buns are done, look for a golden brown color on top. The edges should be firm, and the center should feel set when you touch it. You can also use a toothpick; if it comes out clean, your sticky buns are ready. Enjoy the lovely aroma while they bake! Making caramel pecan sticky buns is simple and fun. We reviewed the key steps, from activating the yeast to baking the buns. I shared tips to perfect your dough and suggestions for serving. Don’t shy away from experimenting with flavors, whether you choose nuts or chocolate. Remember to store and reheat them properly to keep your sticky buns fresh. Enjoy your delicious creation with friends or family!

Caramel Pecan Sticky Buns

Indulge in the sweet delight of Caramel Pecan Sticky Buns! This scrumptious recipe guides you through creating soft, gooey buns topped with a luscious caramel and crunchy pecans. Perfect for breakfast or a cozy treat anytime, these sticky buns are sure to impress. Follow our easy instructions and enjoy warm, buttery goodness straight from your oven. Click to explore the full recipe and bring this deliciousness to your kitchen!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 cup whole milk, warmed

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

1 large egg

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 cup pecans, chopped

1/2 cup brown sugar

1/4 cup corn syrup

1/4 cup unsalted butter (for caramel)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions
 

Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, mix the warmed milk and sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast on top and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

    Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, melted butter, egg, salt, and cinnamon. Add the frothy yeast mixture and mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth.

      First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

        Prepare Caramel Mixture: In a small saucepan, combine the brown sugar, corn syrup, and butter for the caramel. Cook over medium heat until the butter is melted and the mixture is bubbly. Stir in the vanilla extract and remove from heat.

          Assemble the Buns: Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Sprinkle with chopped pecans, then spread the caramel mixture evenly over the rolled dough.

            Shape the Buns: Starting from one long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Slice the log into 1-inch thick pieces and place them cut-side up in a greased baking dish.

              Second Rise: Cover the baking dish with a towel and let the buns rise for another 30 minutes.

                Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the buns have risen, bake them for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

                  Cool and Serve: Let the sticky buns cool for about 5 minutes. Invert the baking dish onto a serving platter so that the caramel and pecans are on top.

                    Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours | Servings: 10-12

                      - Presentation Tips: Serve warm, garnished with extra chopped pecans and a drizzle of caramel sauce for added indulgence. Enjoy the buttery, sticky goodness with a cup of coffee or tea!