Name: Caramel Pecan Sticky Buns Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 tablespoon instant yeast; 1/2 cup warm milk; 1/4 cup sugar; 1/4 cup salted butter (well softened, but not melted); 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 large egg; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon cinnamon; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 4 tablespoons salted butter (softened); 1/2 cup brown sugar; 2 tablespoons corn syrup; 4 tablespoons salted butter; 1/4 cup heavy cream; 1 1/4 cups chopped pecans

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 35 reviews

If you have a soft spot for indulgent breakfast treats, you are going to absolutely adore this Caramel Pecan Sticky Buns Recipe. These sticky buns are a luscious harmony of sweet caramel, crunchy pecans, and fluffy, cinnamon-spiced dough that practically melts in your mouth. Every bite bursts with warm buttery goodness and a rich, gooey topping that makes mornings feel extraordinary. Whether you’re serving them for a weekend brunch or a cozy holiday gathering, this recipe will become your go-to for impressively delicious, irresistibly sticky buns.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a black cast iron skillet lined with light brown parchment paper, placed on a soft pink textured cloth and a white marbled surface. Inside the skillet, there is a bottom layer of chopped pecans that look dark brown and crunchy, covering the base fully. On top of the pecans, there are nine raw cinnamon roll dough pieces arranged in three rows of three. Each dough piece is cream-colored with visible spiral swirls of cinnamon brown. The dough rolls have a soft, smooth texture and are evenly spaced. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic behind the Caramel Pecan Sticky Buns Recipe lies in its simple, thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role: from the instant yeast that helps the dough rise with a delicate fluffiness, to the rich brown sugar and butter that create that signature caramel gooeyness. The chopped pecans add an irresistible crunch, making every bite a perfect balance of textures and flavors.

1/2 tablespoon instant yeast: Ensures your dough rises beautifully and yields soft buns.
1/2 cup warm milk: Activates the yeast and adds tenderness to the dough.
1/4 cup sugar: Gives a touch of sweetness to the dough base.
1/4 cup salted butter (well softened): Brings richness and subtle saltiness.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors perfectly.
1 large egg: Binds ingredients and creates a nicely textured dough.
2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for your soft and fluffy buns.
1 tablespoon cinnamon: Adds warm, aromatic spice to the filling.
1/2 cup brown sugar: For that classic sticky, caramelized sweetness inside the rolls.
4 tablespoons salted butter (softened): Spread generously on the dough to create layers of buttery goodness.
1/2 cup brown sugar: Used again to complement the pecan caramel topping.
2 tablespoons corn syrup: Gives the caramel topping its signature shine and stickiness.
4 tablespoons salted butter: Melts into the topping to elevate its richness.
1/4 cup heavy cream: Adds a silky smooth finish to the caramel sauce.
1 1/4 cups chopped pecans: Offers a lovely crunch and nutty flavor.

How to Make Caramel Pecan Sticky Buns Recipe

Step 1: Activate the yeast

Start by combining warm milk and instant yeast in a medium-sized bowl. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy. This step is crucial because the yeast’s activity ensures your buns will rise to that perfect, fluffy softness that everyone loves.

Step 2: Mix wet ingredients

Whisk in the sugar, melted butter, salt, and egg into the foamy yeast mixture. This combination gives your dough flavor and structure, preparing it to be mixed with the flour.

Step 3: Form and knead the dough

Gradually stir the flour into the wet ingredients until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl. Then, turn it out onto a floured surface and knead for 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Kneading develops the gluten network, which is key to a light, airy bun.

Step 4: Let the dough rise

Place your dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and allow it to rise until doubled, around an hour. This rise builds volume and a beautifully tender crumb in your buns.

Step 5: Punch down and prep for filling

Punch the dough down gently to release air and knead briefly until smooth. This resets the dough so you can roll it out easily for the next steps.

Step 6: Make the pecan caramel topping

In a small saucepan, melt together brown sugar, corn syrup, and butter. Let it simmer for two minutes until it thickens slightly, then stir in heavy cream for a glossy, indulgent topping.

Step 7: Prepare the baking pan

Line a 10-inch skillet or round cake pan with parchment paper and lightly spray it. Pour your warm caramel sauce into the pan, then sprinkle chopped pecans evenly over the top. This ensures every bun will be blessing you with caramel and nutty crunch.

Step 8: Roll and fill the dough

Roll your dough into a 10 by 16-inch rectangle. If it snaps back as you roll, let it rest for 10 minutes then try again. Spread softened butter all over, then generously sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon to create that signature sweet swirl inside each bun.

Step 9: Shape and cut the rolls

Roll the dough tightly along the long edge into a log. Use a sharp serrated knife to cut it into 8 equal rolls. These uniform pieces will bake evenly and look beautiful stacked side by side.

Step 10: Arrange and proof

Place the rolls on top of the caramel pecan mixture in the skillet. Cover and let them rise until puffy, about 30 minutes. This additional rise allows the dough to relax and become even softer before baking.

Step 11: Bake the sticky buns

Bake at 375º F for 25 minutes, checking at 20 minutes to ensure they don’t over-brown. If they brown too quickly, cover loosely with foil. Watch for that golden brown top that signals they’re ready to come out.

Step 12: Flip and cool

Carefully flip the entire skillet onto a serving plate while still warm to reveal the sticky caramel and pecan topping. Be cautious—this caramel is super hot but absolutely worth the wait.

How to Serve Caramel Pecan Sticky Buns Recipe

A single sticky cinnamon roll sits on a white plate with a shiny, golden-brown glaze that covers the swirled layers of soft dough. On top and around the roll, there is a generous layer of chopped pecans coated in a sticky caramel sauce that glistens in the light. The roll's layers are thick and fluffy, revealing a cinnamon-spiced filling inside. A fork rests on the plate, with a piece of the cinnamon roll topped with pecans on its prongs. The background features a white marbled surface and some blurred baked goods. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A light dusting of powdered sugar instantly elevates these sticky buns, offering a delicate sweetness and charming presentation. For extra flair, drizzle with a little vanilla glaze or a dollop of whipped cream to enhance their richness.

Side Dishes

Pair these caramel pecan sticky buns with freshly brewed coffee or a rich hot chocolate for the ultimate cozy breakfast. Fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or a citrus salad can provide a bright contrast to the deep sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the sticky buns on a rustic wooden board for an inviting, homey feel. You can also place them in individual ramekins for a fun twist or stack mini versions for a crowd-pleasing brunch centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover buns at room temperature in an airtight container. They stay soft and fresh for up to two days, making them perfect for enjoying later or sharing with neighbors or friends.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap the buns tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They freeze well for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Warm your sticky buns in the oven at 300º F for about 10 minutes or microwave briefly for 20-30 seconds. This will bring back their gooey, melty perfection without drying them out.

FAQs

Can I use a different nut instead of pecans?

Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds make delightful substitutes that offer their own unique crunch and flavor, all while complementing the caramel beautifully.

Is it okay to make the dough ahead of time?

You can prepare the dough a day in advance and refrigerate it after the first rise. Just take it out to come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

Can I use a stand mixer instead of kneading by hand?

Yes, a stand mixer with a dough hook works perfectly and saves effort. Just mix and knead on medium speed for about 5 minutes until smooth.

What’s the best way to prevent buns from sticking to the pan?

Using parchment paper plus a light spray of cooking oil is key. This ensures a smooth release when you flip the skillet after baking.

How do I know when the buns are fully baked?

The sticky buns should be golden brown on top and feel springy when gently pressed. If uncertain, you can insert a toothpick in the center to check for any raw dough.

Final Thoughts

This Caramel Pecan Sticky Buns Recipe is a total game-changer for anyone who loves sweet, sticky breakfasts that feel like a special occasion every time. It’s approachable yet impressively decadent, perfect for treating yourself or wow-ing guests. Give it a try—you’ll be making these irresistible buns again and again in no time!