Perfectly Pecan Sticky Buns: A Sunday Morning Treat

Craving the best sticky buns? My pecan sticky buns recipe uses a buttery caramel base that's baked upside down for ultimate stickiness! Get the recipe now!

May 22, 2025
By Olivia.
Updated May 26, 2025

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Recipe Introduction: Sticky Buns, Oh My!

Fancy a bit of sticky goodness? i'm talking about sticky buns . honestly, who can resist that gooey, caramelly, pecan-y deliciousness? this recipe is all about that sunday morning vibe, the one where you want something comforting, and maybe just a little bit decadent.

Think pecan sticky buns recipes cinnamon rolls , but kicked up a notch. you know?

These aren't just any rolls. they're caramel pecan rolls sticky buns , a glorious mess of soft dough, cinnamon-sugar, and a rich, buttery caramel pecan base.

It's basically happiness in every bite. we're talkin' about the ultimate shareable baked goods !

The Story Behind the Bun

Did you know sticky buns have roots in german baking traditions? these yeasted delights, particularly the sticky pecan rolls , migrated and evolved in america, becoming a beloved treat.

It’s a yeasted dessert and comfort food all rolled into one!

This recipe is a medium-level challenge. it takes about 3 - 3. 5 hours from start to finish, including rising time.

But trust me, making homemade sticky buns recipes is absolutely worth it. the recipe makes about 9 large buns. perfect to share.

.. or not.

Why You'll Love These

One of the best things is the heart-warming feeling of having baked these sticky pecan buns yourself, to share with loved ones.

These pecan sticky rolls are perfect for a special brunch, a holiday gathering, or even just a "treat yourself" kind of day.

What makes them special? it's the combination of that soft dough, the warm cinnamon, and that unbelievably rich caramel pecan topping.

And the fact that you can make this in your bread machine sticky buns , if you want to cheat a little bit.

Ready to get sticky? Let's dive into the ingredients.

Alright, let's talk about what you need to whip up these amazing pecan sticky buns . honestly, getting the right ingredients and gear makes all the difference.

Trust me, i've learned the hard way!

Perfectly Pecan Sticky Buns: A Sunday Morning Treat Recipe Card

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Preparation time:45 Mins

Cooking time:30 Mins

Servings:9 large sticky buns

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (240ml) whole milk, lukewarm (105-115°F / 40-46°C)
• 2 1/4 teaspoons (7g) active dry yeast (one packet)
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar, plus 1 teaspoon
• 1/4 cup (56g) unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 3 1/4 cups (406g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup (100g) packed light brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter
• 1 cup (200g) packed light brown sugar
• 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups (150g) pecan halves or pieces, toasted lightly

Instructions:

• In a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, combine lukewarm milk, yeast, and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
• Add the remaining sugar, melted butter, vanilla, and egg to the yeast mixture. Whisk to combine. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
• Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes in the stand mixer with a dough hook or 8-10 minutes by hand on a lightly floured surface until smooth and elastic.
• Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, turning to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1.5-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
• While the dough is rising, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar, heavy cream, and salt. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, and cook for 1-2 minutes until thickened slightly. Remove from heat and stir in the toasted pecans.
• Pour the caramel pecan topping evenly into the bottom of the prepared cake pan or skillet.
• On a lightly floured surface, roll the risen dough into a 12x18 inch rectangle. Spread softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon.
• Starting from the long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal. Use a serrated knife to slice the log into 9 equal pieces.
• Arrange the sliced buns, cut-side up, in the prepared pan on top of the caramel pecan mixture. Cover loosely and let rise for 30-45 minutes, or until puffy.
• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
• Let the sticky buns cool in the pan for 5-10 minutes, then invert onto a serving platter. Let cool slightly before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Calories:600

Fat:35g

Fiber:3g

Recipe Info

Category:Dessert

Cuisine:American

Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get Sorted!

Main Ingredients: Quality Matters!

Alright, so here's the lowdown on what you'll need to create these amazing Caramel Pecan Rolls Sticky Buns.

For the Dough:

• Lukewarm whole milk: 1 cup (240ml) . You want it around 105- 115° F (40- 46° C) . Important: Too hot, and you'll kill the yeast!
• Active dry yeast: 2 1/4 teaspoons (7g) . Get a good brand; it makes a difference.
• Granulated sugar: 1/4 cup (50g) , plus 1 teaspoon .
• Unsalted butter (melted and slightly cooled): 1/4 cup (56g) . Don't skip the cooling part!
• Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon .
• Large egg (room temperature): 1 .
• All-purpose flour: 3 1/4 cups (406g) , plus more for dusting. Bread Machine Sticky Buns.
• Salt: 1 teaspoon .

For the Filling:

• Unsalted butter (softened): 1/2 cup (113g) . Seriously, softened is key here.
• Packed light brown sugar: 1/2 cup (100g) .
• Ground cinnamon: 2 tablespoons .

For that Glorious Sticky Caramel Pecan Topping:

• Unsalted butter: 1 cup (226g) .
• Packed light brown sugar: 1 cup (200g) .
• Heavy cream: 1/4 cup (60ml) .
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon .
• Pecan halves or pieces (toasted lightly): 1 1/2 cups (150g) . I like to save some whole ones to arrange on top.

Seasoning Notes: Spice it Up!

Cinnamon is the star, but don't underestimate the power of a tiny pinch of nutmeg! it adds warmth and depth to your pecan sticky buns recipes cinnamon rolls.

A little sprinkle of allspice also enhances all other flavors. if you're feeling fancy, a dash of bourbon in the caramel sauce will give it a real kick ( bourbon pecan sticky buns , anyone?).

And if you don't have cinnamon at all, you can use a mix of nutmeg, ginger, and allspice. It won't be exactly the same, but it will still be delicious.

Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple!

• Stand mixer : Optional but honestly, it's a lifesaver for the dough. If you don't have one, get ready for a good arm workout!
• 9-inch round cake pan or cast iron skillet : The cast iron gives it a rustic look.
• Rolling pin : For rolling out that beautiful dough.
• Pastry brush : To get the butter and cinnamon-sugar evenly distributed.
• Small saucepan : For the caramel sauce.
• Thermometer : If you are as extra as me.

You know what? these homemade sticky buns recipes are pretty forgiving, so don't stress too much if you don't have exactly the right equipment.

A bowl and a strong spoon can substitute a stand mixer. just get ready to roll up your sleeves!. so, now you're armed and ready.

Let's make some magic happen and create some sticky pecan rolls.

Alright, let's get these sticky buns sorted! nothing says "sunday morning bliss" quite like a warm, gooey one, does it? think of it as a slightly less fancy cinnamon roll's older, wiser, and frankly, more delicious cousin.

We're aiming for that perfect balance of soft, enriched dough, a rich, caramel-y base, and plenty of pecans (because, well, why not?).

This recipe will give you buns worthy of a paul hollywood handshake (and probably a few sticky fingers too!).

Perfectly Pecan Sticky Buns : A Sunday Morning Treat

These aren't your average cinnamon rolls. we're talking about sticky buns , a richer, more decadent cousin featuring a buttery, caramel-pecan base that's baked upside down, then flipped for maximum stickiness and flavor.

Honestly, are you even living if you haven't had one? these are perfect as shareable baked goods .

Prep Steps to Homemade Sticky Buns Recipes

Essential mise en place, darling! Get everything ready before you even think about touching the dough. It makes life so much easier.

Time-Saving Organization Tips

Measure out all your ingredients before you start. trust me, it's a game-changer! i once forgot the sugar halfway through and had to start all over.

Oh my gosh, the drama! to save some time, you can actually use your bread machine sticky buns , it will save you a lot of time!

Safety Reminders

Hot caramel is basically molten lava, alright? Be careful not to burn yourself. Seriously, I've got the scars to prove it.

Step-by-Step Process to make your Caramel Pecan Rolls Sticky Buns

Here's the fun bit: making those gooey Pecan Cinnamon Rolls Recipe Sticky Buns !

1. Activate the Yeast: Combine lukewarm milk ( 105- 115° F / 40- 46° C ), yeast, and 1 tsp sugar. Let it foam for 5- 10 minutes. That means it's alive and kicking!
2. Make the Dough: Add sugar, melted butter, vanilla, and egg. Mix in flour and salt until you get a shaggy dough. It looks a bit rough now, but trust the process.
3. Knead the Dough: Knead for 5- 7 minutes (mixer) or 8- 10 minutes (by hand) until smooth. This develops the gluten.
4. First Rise: Let it rise in a warm place for 1.5- 2 hours , until doubled. This is where the magic happens.
5. Caramel Time: Melt butter, stir in brown sugar, cream, and salt. Simmer for 1- 2 minutes , then add the pecans. This smells amazing .
6. Assemble: Pour caramel into the pan. Lay the dough on it. It's a crime to not make Sticky Pecan Rolls .
7. Shape: Roll out the dough, spread butter, sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon. Roll it up tightly.
8. Slice & Bake: Slice into 9 pieces. Arrange them in the pan. Preheat oven to 350° F ( 175° C) . Bake for 25- 30 minutes , until golden brown.

Pro Tips to make the best Pecan Rolls Recipe Sticky Buns Easy

Wanna make these Overnight Pecan Rolls truly epic?

• Toast those pecans! Honestly, it makes a world of difference. It brings out their nutty flavour.
• Don't overbake! Nobody wants a dry bun. Check with a toothpick.
• Make-Ahead Option: Assemble the buns, let them rise, then cover and refrigerate overnight. Bake them fresh in the morning. Genius, right?

There you have it. the secret to making sourdough pecan sticky buns that will make you the star baker of your family.

Enjoy these yeasted dessert ! these are perfect as bun bars recipe . so, go on, give it a go! let me know how yours turn out, yeah? grab the ingredients and create your own bourbon pecan sticky buns .

The perfect sticky pecan buns for every occasion.

Recipe Notes

Right, so you've made the pecan cinnamon rolls recipe sticky buns . ace! let's talk shop. these aren’t just any old pecan rolls recipe sticky buns easy .

We're talking next-level deliciousness. but even the best recipes benefit from a little insider knowledge.

Serving Suggestions: Show 'Em Off!

Presentation matters, right? don't just whack those sticky pecan buns on a plate. think fancy. arrange them artfully. a dusting of powdered sugar? yes, please.

Maybe a drizzle of extra caramel sauce. for drinks, honestly, nothing beats a strong cuppa. if you're feeling fancy, a latte will work, or a spot of coffee.

. some fresh berries on the side add a touch of class.

Storage Tips: Keep the Sticky Love Alive

Leftovers? if there are any, which, let's be honest, is unlikely. for refrigeration, pop them in an airtight container. they'll keep for about 2-3 days.

Reheat them gently in the oven or microwave for that fresh-baked experience. i once tried freezing my homemade sticky buns recipes .

They were fine, but honestly, they weren't quite the same. still edible, but definitely best fresh.

Variations: Mix It Up!

Fancy a change from classic caramel pecan rolls sticky buns ? oh my gosh, there are options. try a sourdough pecan sticky buns for a tangier flavour.

For dietary adaptations: try using gluten-free flour, for a gluten-free twist. want to get a taste for the season? think apple chunks in autumn or use a few raspberries in summer.

Nutrition Basics: The Good Stuff (and the Not-So-Good)

Let's be real, these aren't exactly health food. but life's too short to skip dessert. each sticky bun is likely packing a fair few calories and sugar.

However, the pecans do offer some healthy fats and fiber. it's all about balance, innit? consider this an excuse to share your shareable baked goods .

So there you have it! all the extra bits to make your maple pecan sticky buns absolutely perfect. now go forth and bake! i made mine in a bread machine sticky buns style once and it wasn’t the worst thing ever.

Don't forget to try some Bun Bars Recipe , it might get you in a good mood!. Hope you can take advantage of all this.