Name: Maple Pecan Sticky Buns Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 3 h 40 min
Yield: 12
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For Dough:; 1 cup whole milk; ⅔ cup granulated sugar; 1½ tbsp active dry yeast; ½ cup butter; 2 large eggs; ½ tsp kosher salt; 4½ cups all purpose flour; For Filling:; ½ cup butter; ½ cup light brown sugar; 1½ tsp ground cinnamon; For Topping:; 6 tbsp butter; 1¼ cup light brown sugar; 1 tsp vanilla; ¼ cup maple syrup; 3 tbsp heavy cream

Get ready to indulge in the ultimate comfort food with these maple pecan sticky buns. Soft, fluffy dough is wrapped around a sweet cinnamon filling and topped with a luscious caramel sauce infused with maple syrup and pecans. Perfect for a special breakfast or brunch treat, these sticky buns are sure to delight your taste buds.

Photos of Maple Pecan Sticky Buns Recipe

When gathering ingredients for this recipe, you might find that active dry yeast, kosher salt, and maple syrup are not commonly found in every household. Active dry yeast is essential for the dough to rise properly, while kosher salt provides a distinct flavor that differs from regular table salt. Maple syrup adds a unique, rich sweetness to the caramel topping, making it a key component of these sticky buns.

Ingredients For Maple Pecan Sticky Buns

whole milk: Provides moisture and richness to the dough.

granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and activates the yeast.

active dry yeast: Leavening agent that helps the dough rise.

butter: Adds richness and flavor to both the dough and the filling.

eggs: Provide structure and richness to the dough.

kosher salt: Enhances the flavor of the dough.

all purpose flour: The main structure of the dough.

light brown sugar: Used in the filling and topping for a deep, molasses-like sweetness.

ground cinnamon: Adds a warm, spicy flavor to the filling.

maple syrup: Adds a rich, sweet flavor to the caramel sauce.

heavy cream: Adds creaminess to the caramel sauce.

pecans: Provide a crunchy texture and nutty flavor in the topping.

vanilla: Adds a sweet, aromatic flavor to the caramel sauce.

One reader, Friederike Mcgill says:

These maple pecan sticky buns are absolutely divine! The dough is perfectly soft and fluffy, and the caramel sauce with pecans adds a delightful crunch and sweetness. They were a huge hit at breakfast, and I can't wait to make them again. Highly recommend!

Friederike Mcgill

Techniques Required for Perfect Maple Pecan Sticky Buns

Yes.

How to knead dough: Kneading involves pressing and folding the dough with your hands to develop gluten, which gives the dough its structure and elasticity. How to roll dough: Rolling dough requires using a rolling pin to flatten the dough into a specific shape and thickness, in this case, a rectangle. How to make caramel sauce: Making caramel sauce involves heating butter, brown sugar, maple syrup, and vanilla until melted and smooth, then whisking in cream to achieve a rich, smooth consistency. How to invert rolls: Inverting rolls involves placing a tray over the baking dish and flipping it to transfer the rolls onto the tray, ensuring the caramel and pecans are on top.

How To Make Maple Pecan Sticky Buns

Indulge yourself with a bite of these bakery-style sticky buns! It’s got a tasty crunch from the pecans and a saccharine taste from the maple.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 25 minutes

Rest and Cool Time: 2 hours 55 minutes

Total: 3 hours 40 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Dough:

1cupwhole milk
⅔cupgranulated sugar
1½tbspactive dry yeastor instant yeast
½cupbuttersoftened to room temperature and cut into bite sized pieces
2large eggs
½tspkosher salt
4½cupsall purpose flour

For Filling:

½cupbuttersoftened to room temperature
½cuplight brown sugar
1½tspground cinnamon

For Topping:

6tbspbutter
1¼cuplight brown sugar
1tspvanilla
¼cupmaple syrup
3tbspheavy cream

Instructions

Dough:

Lightly grease a large mixing bowl with a drizzle of vegetable oil and set aside.
In a small saucepan, heat milk over medium heat until warmed.
Pour warm milk into the bowl of a stand mixer, then stir in the granulated sugar and yeast.
Let the mixture sit for 5 to 10 minutes. Yeast mixture should look foamy.
Mix the milk mixture low speed, then add butter, eggs and the salt.
Gradually add in the flour in 1 cup increments.
Increase mixer speed to medium, and mix for 5 minutes, or until a soft dough forms.
Lightly flour the counter or other flat surface and transfer the dough onto it.
Dust hands with flour and knead by hand for 1 minute, or until the dough comes together.
Form the dough into a ball and transfer to the greased mixing bowl.
Cover bowl with plastic wrap loosely, and top with a clean kitchen towel.
Place in a warm spot for 2 hours, or until the dough has doubled in size.
Once dough has doubled in size, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface.
Roll the dough into a rectangle with a rolling pin, roughly 12 x 18-inches in size.

Filling:

Spread the dough rectangle with softened butter, then top with brown sugar and cinnamon.
Gently use fingers to pat the sugar-cinnamon mixture.
Starting at the top, roll the dough tightly backwards.
Once the dough is an 18-inch long log, carefully slice the log in 12 evenly sized rolls.

Topping:

In a small saucepan, heat butter, brown sugar, maple syrup and vanilla over medium heat until melted and smooth.
Remove from heat and whisk in cream. Set aside.

Rise and Bake:

Butter or grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
Pour caramel sauce into the bottom of the baking dish, lifting and tilting the dish to coat the bottom with caramel.
Sprinkle pecans over the top of the caramel.
Arrange rolls on top of the caramel and pecans, then cover tightly with foil.
Let the dough rise again for 45 minutes, or until large and puffy.
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
Bake the sticky buns for 25 minutes.
Remove pan from oven and let cool for 7 to 10 minutes.
Place a large serving tray or sheet pan over the top of the baking dish.
Carefully, and using oven safe gloves, hold onto both the tray and the dish and flip it over to invert the rolls.
Lift up the baking dish and set aside
Serve rolls warm with additional caramel sauce, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 541.52kcal
Fat: 24.52g
Saturated Fat: 14.96g
Trans Fat: 0.86g
Monounsaturated Fat: 6.45g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.24g
Carbohydrates: 74.10g
Fiber: 1.84g
Sugar: 36.93g
Protein: 7.48g
Cholesterol: 94.11mg
Sodium: 111.84mg
Calcium: 71.51mg
Potassium: 156.07mg
Iron: 2.56mg
Vitamin A: 216.10µg
Vitamin C: 0.04mg

Technique Tip: Achieving the Perfect Sticky Bun Texture

When rolling out the dough for the sticky buns, ensure that it is evenly rolled to a consistent thickness. This will help the filling distribute evenly and prevent any areas from being too thick or too thin, which can affect the final texture and baking time.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Maple Pecan Sticky Buns

Prepare the filling: Mix the butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon for the filling while the dough is rising to save time.

Use a stand mixer: Let the stand mixer do the heavy lifting for kneading the dough, which speeds up the process.

Pre-measure ingredients: Have all your ingredients measured and ready before you start, so you can move through the steps quickly.

Quick rise method: Place the dough in a slightly warm oven to speed up the rising process.

Slice with floss: Use dental floss to slice the dough log into rolls for a cleaner cut and faster prep.

Substitute Ingredients For Maple Pecan Sticky Buns Recipe

whole milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk provides a similar consistency and can be used for a dairy-free option.
granulated sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index and adds a slight caramel flavor.
active dry yeast - Substitute with instant yeast: Instant yeast can be used in the same quantity and does not require proofing.
butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used as a non-dairy alternative with a similar fat content.
eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg) are a good vegan substitute.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and provides a similar flavor.
all purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds more fiber and nutrients, though it may make the dough denser.
light brown sugar - Substitute with dark brown sugar: Dark brown sugar has a higher molasses content, adding a deeper flavor.
ground cinnamon - Substitute with pumpkin pie spice: Pumpkin pie spice includes cinnamon along with other spices for a more complex flavor.
vanilla - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a different but complementary flavor profile.
maple syrup - Substitute with honey: Honey has a similar consistency and sweetness, though it will alter the flavor slightly.
heavy cream - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream is a dairy-free alternative with a similar richness and texture.

Presentation Ideas for Irresistible Sticky Buns

Serve smaller portion sizes: Slice the sticky buns into smaller, bite-sized pieces to create an elegant presentation. This allows for a more refined tasting experience.
Use decoration: Garnish each piece with a light drizzle of caramel sauce and a sprinkle of finely chopped pecans. Add a small edible flower or a mint leaf for a touch of color and sophistication.
Plate with precision: Arrange the bite-sized sticky buns on a pristine white plate in a circular pattern. Ensure each piece is evenly spaced to create a visually appealing presentation.
Add texture contrast: Serve the sticky buns with a dollop of lightly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. The creamy texture will complement the sticky sweetness of the buns.
Highlight the ingredients: Place a small dish of maple syrup and a few whole pecans on the plate to showcase the key ingredients used in the recipe. This adds an element of storytelling to the dish.
Create height: Stack a couple of the smaller pieces of sticky buns on top of each other to add height and dimension to the plate. This technique adds visual interest and makes the dish look more dynamic.
Use a sauce brush: Lightly brush the plate with a thin layer of caramel sauce before placing the sticky buns on it. This creates a beautiful base and enhances the overall presentation.
Incorporate seasonal elements: Add a few fresh berries or a slice of seasonal fruit to the plate. This not only adds color but also provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the sticky buns.
Serve warm: Ensure the sticky buns are served warm to enhance their gooey texture and rich flavor. Use a warming drawer or a low oven to keep them at the perfect temperature until serving.
Finish with a dusting: Lightly dust the plate and the sticky buns with a touch of powdered sugar or cinnamon for an elegant finishing touch. This adds a hint of sweetness and a professional look to the dish.

Essential Tools for Making Maple Pecan Sticky Buns

Small saucepan: Used to heat the milk and melt the ingredients for the topping.
Stand mixer: Essential for mixing the dough ingredients together and kneading the dough.
Mixing bowl: Needed for holding the dough while it rises.
Measuring cups: Used to measure out the milk, sugar, flour, and other ingredients accurately.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure smaller quantities like yeast, salt, and cinnamon.
Rolling pin: Used to roll out the dough into a rectangle.
Plastic wrap: Used to cover the dough while it rises.
Clean kitchen towel: Placed over the plastic wrap to keep the dough warm.
Knife: Used to slice the rolled dough into individual buns.
9 x 13-inch baking dish: The dish in which the sticky buns are baked.
Foil: Used to cover the baking dish during the second rise.
Oven: Preheated to bake the sticky buns.
Whisk: Used to mix the caramel sauce ingredients.
Serving tray or sheet pan: Used to invert the sticky buns after baking.
Oven safe gloves: Essential for safely handling the hot baking dish when inverting the buns.

How To Store and Freeze Homemade Sticky Buns

Here are the storing and freezing guidelines for maple pecan sticky buns:

Allow the sticky buns to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation from forming and making them soggy.
Store the sticky buns in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps maintain their freshness and prevents them from drying out.
At room temperature: Maple pecan sticky buns can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days. Keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
In the refrigerator: To extend their shelf life, store the sticky buns in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Before serving, let them come to room temperature or warm them up slightly in the microwave or oven.
Freezing: Maple pecan sticky buns freeze well for up to 2 months.
- Wrap each sticky bun individually in plastic wrap, ensuring a tight seal.
- Place the wrapped buns in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible.
- Label the container or bag with the date of freezing for easy reference.
- To thaw, remove the desired number of sticky buns from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
- Reheat thawed sticky buns in the microwave for a few seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
If you have leftover caramel sauce, store it separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Reheat the sauce gently in the microwave or on the stovetop before drizzling it over the sticky buns.

How To Reheat Leftover Sticky Buns

The best way to reheat leftover maple pecan sticky buns is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the sticky buns on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through and the caramel is bubbling. This method will help to restore the texture and flavor of the sticky buns, making them taste almost as good as when they were freshly baked.
Another option is to reheat the sticky buns in the microwave. Place one or two sticky buns on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 15-20 seconds, or until warmed through. Be careful not to overheat them, as this can cause the dough to become tough and the caramel to harden. If you find that the sticky buns are too dry after microwaving, you can add a small pat of butter on top to help moisten them.
If you have an air fryer, you can also use it to reheat your leftover sticky buns. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the sticky buns in the basket, making sure they are not touching each other. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through and the caramel is melted. This method will give you a crispy exterior and a soft, gooey interior, similar to when they were first baked.
For a quick and easy option, you can also reheat the sticky buns in a toaster oven. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the sticky buns on the wire rack. Heat for 3-5 minutes, or until warmed through and the caramel is melted. Keep an eye on them to make sure they don't burn, as toaster ovens can vary in temperature and heating time.
If you want to reheat a larger batch of sticky buns, you can use a slow cooker. Place the sticky buns in the slow cooker and cover with the lid. Heat on low for 1-2 hours, or until heated through and the caramel is melted. This method is great for keeping the sticky buns warm and moist for an extended period of time, making it perfect for brunch or a holiday gathering.

Random Fact: The Origins of Sticky Buns

A unique aspect of this maple pecan sticky buns recipe is the use of maple syrup in the topping, which adds a rich, caramelized flavor that complements the pecans and cinnamon filling.

Is Making Maple Pecan Sticky Buns at Home Cost-Effective?

The maple pecan sticky buns recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The primary ingredients like all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and butter are pantry staples, while specialty items like maple syrup and pecans can be pricier. However, the indulgent nature of this dessert makes it a worthwhile occasional treat. Overall Verdict: 7/10. Approximate cost: $15-$20 USD for a household of 4 people.

Are Maple Pecan Sticky Buns Healthy or Unhealthy?

The maple pecan sticky buns recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The recipe is high in sugar, with granulated sugar, light brown sugar, and maple syrup all contributing to the sweet flavor profile. Butter is also used liberally throughout the recipe, adding significant amounts of saturated fat. The all-purpose flour used in the dough is refined, meaning it lacks the beneficial fiber and nutrients found in whole grain flours. Additionally, the recipe is quite calorie-dense, with the combination of sugar, butter, and heavy cream.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Replace a portion of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour to increase the fiber content
Reduce the amount of sugar in the dough, filling, and topping by 25-50% to lower the overall sugar content
Use a plant-based butter alternative or coconut oil instead of regular butter to decrease the saturated fat content
Incorporate more pecans or other nuts to boost the protein and healthy fat content
Serve the sticky buns in smaller portions and pair them with fresh fruit to balance out the sweetness and add more nutrients to the meal

Enhance Your Maple Pecan Sticky Buns Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: Velvety and rich, this soup brings a touch of autumn warmth to your table. The butternut squash is roasted to perfection, then blended with a hint of nutmeg and cream for a luxurious start to your meal.

Crispy Maple Bacon: Sweet and savory, this bacon is glazed with maple syrup and baked until perfectly crispy. The smoky flavor complements the sticky buns beautifully, adding a delightful crunch to each bite.

Fresh Berry Salad: Bright and refreshing, this salad features a medley of berries tossed with a light citrus dressing. The tartness of the fruit balances the sweetness of the sticky buns, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

Herb-Infused Cream Cheese Spread: Smooth and aromatic, this spread is infused with fresh herbs like chives and parsley. Perfect for smearing on a warm sticky bun, it adds a savory note that elevates the entire experience.

Spiced Apple Compote: Warm and comforting, this compote features tender apples simmered with cinnamon and cloves. Spoon it over your sticky buns for an extra layer of flavor that feels like a cozy hug.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Maple Pecan Sticky Buns

Cinnamon Rolls: Indulge in the classic dessert with these soft and gooey cinnamon rolls. Perfect for a cozy morning treat or a delightful dessert after dinner. The sweet and spicy aroma will fill your kitchen and make everyone eager to dig in.

Caramel Apple Sticky Buns: Combine the flavors of apples and caramel in these decadent sticky buns. The tartness of the apples balances the sweetness of the caramel, creating a perfect harmony of flavors. Ideal for a fall dessert or a special breakfast treat.

Pecan Pie Bars: Enjoy the rich, nutty flavor of pecans in these easy-to-make bars. With a buttery crust and a gooey filling, these bars are a simplified version of the classic pecan pie. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a sweet snack.

Sticky Toffee Pudding: Dive into this traditional British dessert that features a moist sponge cake made with finely chopped dates, covered in a luscious toffee sauce. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.

Banana Foster Bread Pudding: Transform your overripe bananas into a luxurious bread pudding. This dessert combines the flavors of banana foster with a rich, custardy bread pudding. Top it with a rum caramel sauce for an extra touch of decadence.

Appetizers and Main Courses to Serve with Maple Pecan Sticky Buns

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful way to start any meal. Imagine plump mushrooms filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The filling is creamy and rich, providing a perfect contrast to the earthy flavor of the mushrooms. Top them with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and bake until golden and bubbly. These bite-sized treats are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them a great choice for entertaining guests.

Bruschetta: Bruschetta is a classic Italian appetizer that never fails to impress. Start with slices of toasted baguette brushed with olive oil. Top each slice with a mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and garlic. A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness and complexity. The combination of crunchy bread and fresh, vibrant toppings creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors. It's a simple yet elegant dish that can be prepared in advance, making it ideal for any gathering.

Main Courses:

Grilled Herb-Crusted Salmon: Elevate your dinner with grilled herb-crusted salmon. This dish features a succulent salmon fillet marinated in a blend of fresh herbs, lemon zest, and olive oil. The salmon is then grilled to perfection, resulting in a crispy, flavorful crust. Serve it with a side of roasted vegetables and a drizzle of lemon butter sauce for a meal that's both healthy and indulgent. Perfect for a summer evening or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress your guests.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Delight your taste buds with stuffed bell peppers. These vibrant bell peppers are filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, tomatoes, and spices. Topped with a generous layer of melted cheese, these peppers are baked until tender and bursting with flavor. Serve them with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete and satisfying meal. Ideal for a family dinner or a casual gathering, this dish is both comforting and nutritious.

Why trust this Maple Pecan Sticky Buns Recipe:

This recipe for maple pecan sticky buns is a must-try for any baking enthusiast. The combination of maple syrup and pecans creates a rich, caramelized topping that perfectly complements the soft, fluffy dough. Each step is carefully detailed to ensure your sticky buns turn out perfectly every time. With a balance of sweetness from the brown sugar and a hint of warmth from the cinnamon, these buns are sure to impress. Trust this recipe for a delightful treat that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Want to share your experience making these delectable Maple Pecan Sticky Buns or have any tips to perfect the recipe? Join the discussion in the Baking and Desserts forum section!

FAQ:

How can I tell if the yeast is active?

After you mix the warm milk, sugar, and yeast, let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes. If the mixture looks foamy, the yeast is active and ready to use.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time. After the first rise, you can refrigerate it overnight. Just let it come to room temperature before rolling it out and proceeding with the recipe.

What if I don't have a stand mixer?

No worries! You can mix the dough by hand. It might take a bit more elbow grease, but just mix until a soft dough forms and then knead it on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes.

Can I use dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar?

Absolutely! Dark brown sugar will give the buns a richer, more molasses-like flavor. Feel free to use it if that's what you have on hand.

How do I store leftover sticky buns?

Store any leftover sticky buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for longer storage. Just reheat before serving.