Maple Pecan Sticky Buns

Maple Pecan Sticky Buns are a decadent breakfast or dessert featuring soft, pillowy dough swirled with cinnamon sugar, baked in a gooey maple pecan glaze. Perfect for holiday mornings, brunch gatherings, or a cozy weekend treat, these sticky buns are rich, buttery, and irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft, fluffy rolls with a caramelized maple pecan topping.
• Perfect balance of sweet and nutty flavors.
• Ideal for make-ahead preparation.
• A show-stopping treat that’s great for sharing.

Ingredients

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

For the Dough:

• All-purpose flour
• Instant yeast
• Granulated sugar
• Salt
• Milk
• Unsalted butter
• Eggs

For the Filling:

• Brown sugar
• Ground cinnamon
• Unsalted butter, softened

For the Maple Pecan Topping:

• Unsalted butter
• Brown sugar
• Maple syrup
• Heavy cream
• Chopped pecans

Directions

Make the Dough

1. Activate Yeast: Warm the milk to about 110°F (43°C). In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. Mix Dough: Add eggs, melted butter, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the yeast mixture. Stir until combined, then gradually add the remaining flour until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead Dough: Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5–6 minutes.
4. Let Dough Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1–2 hours, or until doubled in size.

Make the Maple Pecan Topping

1. Prepare Glaze: In a saucepan, combine butter, brown sugar, maple syrup, and heavy cream. Cook over medium heat until smooth and bubbling.
2. Add Pecans: Stir in the chopped pecans and pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Assemble the Buns

1. Roll Out Dough: On a floured surface, roll the dough into a large rectangle (about 12×18 inches).
2. Add Filling: Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough. Sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon.
3. Roll and Cut: Roll the dough tightly into a log and cut into 12 equal pieces. Arrange the pieces in the prepared baking dish over the pecan topping.
4. Final Rise: Cover the dish and let the buns rise for 30–45 minutes, or until puffed.

Bake and Serve

1. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the buns for 30–35 minutes, or until golden brown.
2. Invert: Let the buns cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then carefully invert onto a serving platter. Serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes 12 buns
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Rising Time: 2 hours

Variations

• Chocolate Pecan: Add mini chocolate chips to the filling for a sweet surprise.
• Apple Pecan: Sprinkle diced apples over the pecan topping before adding the buns.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend designed for yeasted dough.
• Extra Maple Flavor: Add a teaspoon of maple extract to the dough or glaze.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover sticky buns in an airtight container at room temperature for 1–2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Reheating: Warm individual buns in the microwave for 15–20 seconds or in a 300°F (150°C) oven until heated through.
• Freezing: Freeze unbaked buns (after the final rise) or baked buns for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and bake or reheat as needed.

FAQs

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight after the first rise. Let it come to room temperature before assembling the buns.

2. Can I use store-bought dough?

Yes, refrigerated crescent roll or pizza dough can be used for a quicker version.

3. Can I substitute walnuts for pecans?

Absolutely! Walnuts work just as well in this recipe.

4. How do I prevent sticky buns from burning?

Bake the buns on the middle rack and cover loosely with foil if they brown too quickly.

5. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double the ingredients and bake in two pans or a larger baking dish.

6. What’s the best type of maple syrup to use?

Use pure maple syrup for the best flavor, not pancake syrup.

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

Grease the pan thoroughly and invert the buns onto a platter while still warm.

8. Can I make these dairy-free?

Use plant-based butter and a non-dairy milk alternative for a dairy-free version.

9. What can I serve with sticky buns?

Serve with coffee, tea, or a fresh fruit salad for a complete breakfast or brunch.

10. How do I know when the buns are fully baked?

The tops should be golden brown, and the internal temperature should reach 190°F (88°C).

Conclusion

Maple Pecan Sticky Buns are the ultimate indulgence, combining soft, fluffy rolls with a caramelized maple glaze and crunchy pecans. This irresistible treat is perfect for holidays, brunch gatherings, or anytime you want to impress your family and friends. Make a batch and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of this classic recipe!

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