Name: Maple Pecan Sticky Buns Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 28 min
Total time: 4 h 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup (240ml) whole milk, warmed to about 100°F (38°C); 2/3 cup (135g) granulated sugar, divided; 1 and 1/2 Tablespoons (14g) active dry or instant yeast (2 standard size packets); 1/2 cup (8 Tbsp; 113g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature and cut into 4 pieces; 2 large eggs, at room temperature; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 4 and 1/2 cups (563g) all-purpose flour or bread flour (spooned & leveled), plus more as needed; 2 teaspoons canola, vegetable, or olive oil for bowl (or use nonstick spray); 2 cups (250g) chopped pecans; 1/2 cup (8 Tbsp; 113g) unsalted butter; 2/3 cup (135g) packed light or dark brown sugar; 1/4 cup (60ml) whole milk; 1/4 cup (60ml) pure maple syrup; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup (4 Tbsp; 56g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature; 1/2 cup (100g) packed light or dark brown sugar; 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 73 reviews

There is something so wonderfully indulgent about a Maple Pecan Sticky Buns Recipe that makes it the perfect treat to share with friends and family. Imagine tender, buttery rolls rolled with cinnamon sugar, baked to golden perfection, and drenched in a luscious, sticky maple glaze studded with crunchy pecans. This recipe takes classic sticky buns to another level by infusing the rich sweetness of real maple syrup, creating that magical balance of gooey, nutty, and warmly spiced flavors in every bite. Whether it’s a weekend brunch or a cozy dessert, these sticky buns bring an irresistible charm that fills your kitchen with the most delightful aroma and your heart with pure comfort.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white round plate on a white marbled surface, filled with cooked brown rice placed slightly above the center. Surrounding the rice plate are several small white bowls and containers arranged evenly, holding various ingredients: one with dark brown liquid, another with light beige powder, a bowl of chopped pecans with a rich brown color, a bowl with a creamy white substance, a medium bowl containing light golden crumbs, and a bowl with what looks like white sugar. There is also a white pitcher with milk, a bowl with flour, a single brown egg, and a small bowl of light brown powder. The whole setup has a neat and organized look. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Making this Maple Pecan Sticky Buns Recipe doesn’t require anything fancy—just wholesome, everyday ingredients that come together to create amazing flavor and texture. Each component, from warm milk to fresh pecans, plays a crucial role in giving the buns that perfect softness, sweetness, and that sticky, irresistible topping.

1 cup whole milk, warmed to about 100°F (38°C): This warmth activates the yeast perfectly to help the dough rise beautifully.
2/3 cup granulated sugar, divided: Sweetness that feeds the yeast first, then adds to dough flavor.
1 and 1/2 Tablespoons active dry or instant yeast: The magic ingredient that makes the dough light and fluffy.
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened and cut into pieces: Adds rich, tender texture to the dough.
2 large eggs, room temperature: Help bind and add richness.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances flavor and enhances sweetness.
4 and 1/2 cups all-purpose or bread flour, plus more as needed: Gives structure to your buns while keeping them soft.
2 teaspoons oil for greasing bowl: Keeps dough from sticking during rising.
2 cups chopped pecans: Toasted crunch meets buttery glaze in the topping.
1/2 cup unsalted butter (for topping): Creates that shiny, sticky pecan glaze.
2/3 cup packed light or dark brown sugar (for topping): Offers deep, caramel-like sweetness.
1/4 cup whole milk (for topping): Adds creaminess and helps dissolve sugar.
1/4 cup pure maple syrup: The star of this Maple Pecan Sticky Buns Recipe, infusing rich, natural sweetness.
1/4 teaspoon salt (for topping): Balances all the gooey flavors.
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (for filling): Makes spreading easy and keeps filling moist.
1/2 cup packed brown sugar (for filling): Combines with cinnamon for the classic sticky bun filling.
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice to the filling layer.

How to Make Maple Pecan Sticky Buns Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast and Prepare the Dough

Start by whisking together the warm milk, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and yeast in your stand mixer bowl—or a large bowl if mixing by hand. Let this mixture sit for around five minutes until it becomes foamy on top, signaling active yeast that will help your dough rise tenderly. Next, beat in the remaining sugar, softened butter, eggs, and salt, then slowly add your flour in increments to bring the dough together. Don’t worry if the butter looks chunky at first; it will incorporate during kneading. Aim for a soft dough that just starts to pull away from the bowl.

Step 2: Knead the Dough for Perfect Texture

Now knead! Whether by mixer or by hand, kneading builds the gluten structure, giving your buns that delightfully chewy yet tender crumb. Keep your dough soft and tacky—adding flour sparingly only as needed. After about five minutes, test with a gentle poke or try the “windowpane test” to ensure it’s elastic and ready for rising.

Step 3: First Rise and Preparing the Topping

Lightly grease a large bowl and coat the dough with oil, then cover and let it rise for 2 hours until doubled in size. While the dough rests, prepare the sticky pecan topping by greasing your baking pan, spreading chopped pecans evenly, and simmering butter, brown sugar, milk, maple syrup, and salt together in a small saucepan until luscious and glossy. Pour this maple pecan mixture over the nuts for that dreamy sticky base.

Step 4: Roll, Fill, and Shape the Rolls

After the dough has risen, punch it down gently and roll it on a floured surface into a long 12×18-inch rectangle. Spread softened butter all over, sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly, then tightly roll the dough into an 18-inch log. Slice into 12 even rolls and nestle them snugly on top of that sticky pecan layer.

Step 5: Second Rise and Baking

Cover the rolls and allow them to rise again until puffy, about 30 to 45 minutes. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C), then bake the buns for 25 to 28 minutes, tenting with foil halfway through to prevent over-browning. Once golden and irresistible, invert the pan onto a serving plate while still warm, letting the sticky maple pecan topping melt down the sides beautifully.

How to Serve Maple Pecan Sticky Buns Recipe

The image shows a close-up of a single piece of sticky pecan roll on a piece of brown parchment paper on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is a soft, light golden dough with a fluffy texture, visible from a bite taken out of the front part. The top layer is thick with glossy, dark brown caramel sauce and whole pecans, some of which are glossy and shiny while others appear crunched. The pecan roll looks moist and sticky with rich textures and a warm color palette dominated by light brown, caramel, and dark brown shades. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Add a little flair by sprinkling extra chopped pecans on top after baking or drizzle a touch more maple syrup for extra shine and sweetness. A light dusting of powdered sugar can also provide a delicate finish that looks almost too pretty to eat.

Side Dishes

These sticky buns pair wonderfully with fresh fruit like berries or sliced apples to balance their rich sweetness. A cup of hot coffee, chai tea, or warm maple-spiced latte rounds out a perfect brunch pairing that feels extra special.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving these Maple Pecan Sticky Buns Recipe favorites in individual ramekins for personal portions or stack them on a tiered cake stand for a show-stopping centerpiece at your next gathering. Wrapping individual buns in parchment paper tied with a ribbon also makes a sweet homemade gift.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps the buns soft and the topping sticky and decadent.

Freezing

Maple Pecan Sticky Buns Recipe also freezes beautifully. After baking and cooling, wrap the buns individually or as a batch in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Warm your sticky buns gently in a 300°F oven for 10-15 minutes or microwave a single bun for 20-30 seconds. The magic of maple pecan glaze reawakens with heat, making every bite taste fresh and gooey again.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe without a stand mixer?

Absolutely! This recipe can be made by hand using a large bowl and a sturdy wooden spoon or silicone spatula. It does require some elbow grease, especially during the mixing and kneading steps, but the results will be just as delicious.

What type of maple syrup should I use?

Pure maple syrup is best for authentic flavor in the sticky glaze. Avoid imitation syrups, as they won’t deliver the natural depth and sweetness true maple syrup provides.

Can I substitute pecans for other nuts?

Yes, walnuts or even toasted almonds make great alternatives if you have a nut preference or allergy considerations. The key is to toast them lightly to enhance their flavor and crunch.

How long can I let the dough rise on the second rise?

Typically, 30 to 45 minutes is enough for a puffy, airy texture. If you prefer, you can also refrigerate overnight to develop more flavor and bake the next day; just bring to room temperature before baking.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

With some tweaks, yes! Replace butter with vegan margarine or coconut oil, use a plant-based milk alternative, and substitute eggs with flax eggs or commercial egg replacers. Keep in mind it might slightly alter the texture but will still be delicious.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a truly scrumptious breakfast or brunch treat, this Maple Pecan Sticky Buns Recipe should be your go-to. The blend of tender dough, spicy cinnamon, crunchy pecans, and that unforgettable sticky maple glaze will keep you coming back for more. It’s one of those recipes that brings warmth to any kitchen, perfect for sharing or savoring all by yourself. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into the joy of baking these irresistible sticky buns—you won’t regret it!