The joy of baking lies in creating something delightful and comforting from a few simple ingredients. Our Cinnamon Walnut Sticky Buns recipe embodies this magic. The delicate balance of sweet, spicy cinnamon and crunchy walnuts wrapped in a soft, fluffy bun promises a heavenly experience. You won't be able to resist these sticky, gooey buns that are as enjoyable to make as they are to eat.
This recipe uses active dry yeast, a key ingredient in bread baking. You can usually find it in the baking aisle of your local supermarket. The mash potatoes used in the dough add an extra layer of moisture and tenderness to the buns. You could use leftover mashed potatoes or make a fresh batch. Honey, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon create a sweet and sticky topping, while the crunchiness of walnuts adds a delightful texture. Make sure you have these specific ingredients before starting.
Essential Ingredients for Cinnamon Walnut Sticky Buns
Active dry yeast: This is a leavening agent necessary for the dough to rise. It's what gives these buns their soft and fluffy texture.
Mashed potatoes: An unusual ingredient in sweet buns, but they help make the dough moist and tender.
Sugar: Adds sweetness to the dough and filling.
Butter: Enhances the flavor of the dough and filling, and also helps in browning the buns.
Eggs: They provide structure and moisture to the dough.
Salt: It enhances the other flavors in the dough.
All-purpose flour: This is the base of the dough and provides structure to the buns.
Brown sugar: Used in the topping for a deeper, molasses-like sweetness.
Honey: It gives the topping a smooth, sticky texture and a distinct flavor.
Ground cinnamon: A warm spice that adds a sweet and spicy flavor to both the filling and the topping.
Walnuts: They add a delightful crunch to the topping, providing a contrast to the soft buns.
One reader, Bertha Childress says:
These cinnamon walnut sticky buns are a game-changer! The dough is perfectly fluffy, and the topping is sticky and sweet. The combination of cinnamon and walnuts is simply divine. I can't get enough of these heavenly buns!
Techniques Required for Making Cinnamon Walnut Sticky Buns
How to prepare the dough: Dissolve yeast in warm water and combine with mashed potatoes, sugar, butter, eggs, salt, and flour to form a soft dough. Knead the dough until smooth and elastic, then let it rise until doubled in size.
How to make the topping: Melt butter in a saucepan, then stir in brown sugar, honey, and cinnamon. Spread the mixture in greased baking pans and sprinkle with walnuts.
How to make the filling: Mix sugar and cinnamon, then roll out the dough, brush with melted butter, sprinkle with the sugar mixture, roll up, and cut into slices before placing in the baking pans.
How To Make Cinnamon Walnut Sticky Buns
These sticky buns are a great upgrade to the usual cinnamon rolls. They have a honey and brown sugar topping with some chopped walnuts.
Serves:
Ingredients
For Dough:
- 2pkgactive dry yeast
- 1½cupswarm water
- 1cupplain mashed potatoes
- ½cupsugar
- ½cupbutter,softened
- 2large eggs
- 2tspsalt
- 6cupsall purpose flour
For Topping:
- ¼cupbutter
- 1cupbrown sugar,packed
- 1cuphoney
- 1tspground cinnamon
- 1cupwalnuts,chopped
For Filling:
- ½cupsugar
- 2tspground cinnamon
- 2tspbutter,melted
Instructions
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Dissolve yeast in a small bowl with warm water. In a large bowl, combine and beat mashed potatoes, sugar, butter, eggs, salt, yeast mixture and 2 cups flour, until smooth. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a soft dough.
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On a floured surface knead dough for about 6 to 8 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Turn in a greased bowl, so all sides are coated. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, until dough has doubled in size.
Topping:
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Melt butter in a small saucepan. Stir in brown sugar, honey and cinnamon. Spread mixture evenly among three greased 9-inch round baking pans. Sprinkle with walnuts.
Filling:
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Mix sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl, set aside. Punch down and divide dough in half on a lightly floured surface. Roll one portion into an 18×12-inch rectangle. Brush with one tablespoon melted butter and sprinkle with half of the sugar mixture.
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Starting with a long side, roll up jelly-roll style and pinch seam to seal. Cut into 12 slices. Repeat steps with remaining dough, butter and sugar mixture.
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Cut side down, place eight slices in each pan. Cover with kitchen towels and let rise about 30 minutes, or until doubled in size.
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Bake at 350 degrees F for 30 to 35 minutes or until golden brown. Immediately remove rolls from pan onto a serving plate. Serve warm.
Nutrition
- Calories: 292.16kcal
- Fat: 7.40g
- Saturated Fat: 4.12g
- Trans Fat: 0.26g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 1.97g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.65g
- Carbohydrates: 52.78g
- Fiber: 1.99g
- Sugar: 25.94g
- Protein: 5.28g
- Cholesterol: 31.60mg
- Sodium: 232.06mg
- Calcium: 21.46mg
- Potassium: 116.19mg
- Iron: 1.76mg
- Vitamin A: 62.27µg
- Vitamin C: 0.09mg
Essential Technique for Perfect Sticky Buns
When kneading the dough, it's important to use the heel of your hand to push and stretch the dough. This helps to develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a dough that's elastic and smooth. Also, when letting the dough rise, it's best to place it in a warm, draft-free area. This will encourage the yeast to activate, allowing the dough to double in size. When rolling the dough, make sure to roll it tightly. This will ensure that the filling stays inside the bun and gives it a nice spiral look when cut. Lastly, when baking, keep a close eye on the buns as oven temperatures can vary. They should be a nice golden brown when done.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Sticky Buns
Prepare the dough: Use a stand mixer with a dough hook to knead the dough, saving time and effort.
Prep ahead: Prepare the dough the night before and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight for a quicker assembly the next day.
Use a food processor: Use a food processor to chop the walnuts and mix the filling ingredients quickly and efficiently.
Bake in batches: If you have multiple baking pans, bake the sticky buns in batches to save time and ensure even baking.
Freeze for later: Make a double batch and freeze the unbaked sticky buns for future use, allowing you to enjoy them without the lengthy preparation process.
Substitute Ingredients For Cinnamon Walnut Sticky Buns Recipe
cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg has a warm, slightly sweet flavor similar to cinnamon, making it a suitable substitute in this recipe.
walnuts - Substitute with pecans: Pecans have a similar rich, buttery flavor and crunchy texture, making them a great alternative to walnuts in sticky buns.
Presenting Cinnamon Walnut Sticky Buns
Elevate the plating: When presenting the cinnamon walnut sticky buns, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing presentation. Arrange the sticky buns in a circular pattern on a pristine white plate, ensuring they are evenly spaced and the toppings are beautifully showcased.
Incorporate edible flowers: Add a touch of sophistication by garnishing the plate with delicate and colorful edible flowers, such as pansies or nasturtiums. These floral accents will bring a pop of color and a subtle hint of floral fragrance to the presentation.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the sticky buns to stand out. By leaving areas of the plate bare, you can draw attention to the intricate details of the buns and their toppings, creating a visually striking display.
Enhance with gold leaf: For a luxurious touch, consider delicately placing edible gold leaf on the sticky buns or around the plate's rim. The shimmering gold accents will add a touch of opulence and elevate the overall presentation to Michelin-star standards.
Incorporate a caramel drizzle: Create an artful drizzle of caramel sauce on the plate, using a fine-tip squeeze bottle to add a decorative touch. The caramel drizzle not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a rich, indulgent element to the presentation.
Add a dusting of powdered sugar: Before serving, lightly dust the sticky buns with a fine layer of powdered sugar. This finishing touch will create a beautiful contrast against the warm, golden buns and add a touch of elegance to the final presentation.
Serve with a side of vanilla bean ice cream: Elevate the presentation by serving the cinnamon walnut sticky buns alongside a quenelle of velvety vanilla bean ice cream. The combination of warm, gooey buns and cool, creamy ice cream will create a visually stunning and delectable dessert experience.
Essential Tools for Making Sticky Buns
- Mixing bowl: A large, deep bowl used for mixing ingredients, such as dough or batter.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Used to accurately measure ingredients for recipes.
- Rolling pin: A cylindrical tool used to flatten and shape dough.
- Pastry brush: Used to apply butter, egg wash, or glazes to pastries and baked goods.
- Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a handle, used for heating and cooking sauces, syrups, and other liquids.
- Baking pans: Used to bake and cook a variety of dishes, including cakes, cookies, and casseroles.
- Oven: An enclosed kitchen appliance used for baking, roasting, and heating food.
- Spatula: A flat, flexible utensil used for lifting, flipping, and spreading ingredients.
- Knife: A sharp tool used for cutting and slicing ingredients.
- Cutting board: A sturdy board used as a surface for cutting and preparing ingredients.
- Whisk: A kitchen tool used for blending, whipping, and beating ingredients.
- Serving plate: A flat dish used for serving and presenting food.
- Kitchen towels: Used for drying hands, cleaning up spills, and covering food while it rests.
Storing and Freezing Cinnamon Walnut Sticky Buns
Allow the cinnamon walnut sticky buns to cool completely before storing them. This will prevent them from becoming soggy or sticky.
Place the cooled sticky buns in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Make sure to separate each layer with wax paper or parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.
Store the container or bag of sticky buns at room temperature for up to 3 days. Keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
If you want to keep the sticky buns fresh for a longer period, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
To freeze the sticky buns, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place the wrapped buns in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When you're ready to enjoy a frozen sticky bun, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for a few hours. You can also reheat it in the microwave for a few seconds to warm it up and restore its soft, gooey texture.
If you have any leftover topping or filling, you can store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. You can use them to make a fresh batch of sticky buns or as a topping for other desserts like ice cream or pancakes.
How To Reheat Leftover Cinnamon Walnut Sticky Buns
To reheat leftover cinnamon walnut sticky buns, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the buns on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Cover the buns loosely with another piece of foil to prevent them from drying out or burning. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the glaze is melted and bubbly.
Another option is to use a microwave. Place the sticky buns on a microwave-safe plate and heat them on high power for 15-20 seconds per bun. Check the buns after each interval to ensure they don't overheat and become tough. If the buns are not heated through after the first interval, continue microwaving in 10-second increments until they reach the desired temperature.
For a crispy exterior and soft interior, you can also reheat the sticky buns in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the buns in the basket, ensuring they don't touch each other. Heat for 3-5 minutes, or until warmed through and the glaze is melted.
If you have a toaster oven, you can use it to reheat the sticky buns. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the buns on the wire rack. Heat for 5-7 minutes, or until the buns are heated through and the glaze is melted and bubbly.
For a quick and easy method, you can also reheat the sticky buns in a skillet on the stovetop. Place the buns in a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Cover the skillet with a lid and heat for 3-5 minutes, or until the buns are warmed through and the glaze is melted. Flip the buns halfway through the heating process to ensure even warming.
Interesting Fact About Cinnamon Walnut Sticky Buns
The cinnamon walnut sticky buns recipe is a delightful treat that combines the warmth of cinnamon with the crunch of walnuts. These sticky buns are perfect for breakfast or as a sweet snack. They are a great way to enjoy a homemade pastry that is both comforting and delicious.
Is Making Cinnamon Walnut Sticky Buns at Home Cost-Effective?
This cinnamon walnut sticky buns recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as yeast, sugar, butter, and walnuts, are fairly common and affordable. However, the use of honey and mashed potatoes may slightly increase the overall cost. Considering the yield and the satisfaction it brings, this recipe is worth a try. On a scale of 1-10, I would rate it an 8 for its deliciousness and the joy it brings to the table. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20, making it a reasonable treat for a family.
Are Cinnamon Walnut Sticky Buns Healthy or Unhealthy?
The cinnamon walnut sticky buns recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The recipe is high in calories, sugar, and fat, with ingredients like butter, brown sugar, honey, and all-purpose flour contributing to its indulgent nature. The use of refined flour and the significant amount of added sugars can lead to blood sugar spikes and potential health issues if consumed in excess.
However, there are ways to make this recipe healthier without compromising on taste:
- Replace a portion of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or almond flour to increase fiber content and nutrients
- Reduce the amount of sugar and honey in the recipe, or substitute with natural sweeteners like dates or maple syrup
- Use Greek yogurt or applesauce in place of some of the butter to lower the fat content
- Incorporate more nuts, such as pecans or almonds, to boost the protein and healthy fat content
- Add dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for extra flavor and nutrients
- Serve the sticky buns with fresh fruit or a side of yogurt to balance out the indulgence
By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced and nutritious version of the cinnamon walnut sticky buns while still enjoying the classic flavors and textures that make this recipe so beloved.
Editor's Opinion on This Cinnamon Walnut Sticky Buns Recipe
The cinnamon walnut sticky buns recipe is a delightful combination of warm, gooey, and sweet flavors. The use of mashed potatoes in the dough adds a unique tenderness, while the honey and brown sugar topping creates a luscious caramelized finish. The addition of walnuts provides a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. The step-by-step instructions are clear and easy to follow, making this recipe accessible for both novice and experienced bakers. Overall, this recipe promises to deliver a delectable treat that is perfect for breakfast or a sweet indulgence any time of day.
Enhance Your Cinnamon Walnut Sticky Buns Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Cinnamon Walnut Sticky Buns Recipe:
This recipe is a tried and tested classic, perfected over generations. The combination of cinnamon, walnuts, and honey creates a symphony of flavors and textures that will delight your taste buds. The dough is made with mashed potatoes, adding a unique moistness and richness. The topping, made with brown sugar and honey, caramelizes beautifully, while the walnuts add a delightful crunch. Each step is carefully crafted to ensure the perfect balance of sweetness and warmth. Trust in the expertise behind this recipe, and you'll be rewarded with irresistible sticky buns that will become a family favorite.
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