If you’re longing for a treat that feels like a warm hug on a chilly morning, the Caramel Pecans and Cinnamon Pull Apart Rolls Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine fluffy, tender rolls layered over a bed of crunchy pecans, all drenched in a luscious caramel sauce that’s kissed with butterscotch and cinnamon. This recipe takes classic comfort food to a whole new level of indulgence, making it perfect for cozy family breakfasts, festive brunches, or anytime you want to fill your home with the irresistible aroma of fall spices and caramelized sugar.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step in bringing this magical recipe to life. Each item plays a vital role—from the creamy sweetness of the butterscotch pudding to the rich crunch of raw pecans, and the way cinnamon blankets each roll in cozy warmth.
- 2 cups raw whole pecans: Provide a buttery crunch and nutty depth that contrasts beautifully with soft rolls.
- 24 frozen unbaked dinner rolls: These fluffy beauties act as the perfect base to soak up caramel and cinnamon flavors.
- 1 (3.5 oz.) box butterscotch pudding mix: Adds a smooth, sweet layer of butterscotch magic to the rolls.
- 2-3 tablespoons ground cinnamon: Sprinkled generously, it infuses each bite with that classic spicy warmth.
- ½ cup butter: Melts down into the caramel, bringing luscious richness and helping bind the topping.
- ¾ cup light brown sugar: Sweetens and caramelizes perfectly with the butter, creating that gorgeous golden sauce.
How to Make Caramel Pecans and Cinnamon Pull Apart Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish with Pecans and Rolls
Begin by spraying a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Spread the raw whole pecans evenly over the bottom of the dish, creating a crunchy foundation. Arrange the frozen dinner rolls side-by-side on top of the nuts, filling every nook and cranny so that each roll gets that sweet, nutty base.
Step 2: Sprinkle butterscotch pudding mix and cinnamon
Once the rolls are snug in their nutty bed, generously sprinkle the butterscotch pudding mix over them. This unusual but brilliant addition adds soft sweetness and a hint of creamy butterscotch flavor when baked. Follow up with a hearty dusting of ground cinnamon, covering the rolls adequately to impart warm spice to every bite.
Step 3: Make the caramel sauce
In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and stir in the light brown sugar. Keep stirring frequently to prevent burning as the mixture thickens. Allow the mixture to bubble and reach a light amber color—just when it starts to smell like a rich caramel sauce, you’re ready. This sauce will elevate the rolls with buttery sweetness and that enchanting caramel flavor.
Step 4: Pour caramel sauce over rolls
Carefully spoon the warm caramel glaze all over the cinnamon and pudding-coated rolls, allowing it to seep down between the sides. This step ensures every pull-apart piece is coated in sticky, sweet caramel that caramelizes in the oven for a golden finish.
Step 5: Let rolls rise overnight
Cover the baking dish tightly—but don’t let the plastic wrap stick to the dough by giving it a light spray of cooking spray first—then place it on your counter overnight. This slow rise gives the rolls time to puff up beautifully, making them soft, airy, and ready to soak up all those flavors.
Step 6: Bake until golden and irresistible
The next morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (176°C). Remove the plastic wrap gently and pop the baking dish into the oven. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until the tops turn a gorgeous golden brown and the caramel sauce thickens and bubbles enticingly. Let the rolls rest for about 10 minutes after baking to allow everything to settle and thicken.
Step 7: Flip and serve
Place a serving platter or cookie sheet on top of the baking dish and carefully flip it over so the caramel pecans end up on top of the rolls. This reveal moment is truly satisfying and ensures every piece is generously coated with sticky caramel and crunchy pecans. Grab a piece, pull it apart, and let the deliciousness melt in your mouth.
How to Serve Caramel Pecans and Cinnamon Pull Apart Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra festive touch, sprinkle some powdered sugar on top before serving to add a delicate sweetness and pretty snowy look. You can also drizzle with a bit of cream cheese glaze or a light vanilla icing for an extra layer of decadence that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon and caramel flavors.
Side Dishes
This recipe shines as a sweet star, so keep sides light and complementary. Fresh fruit like berries, orange segments, or apple slices bring a refreshing balance. A dollop of whipped cream, plain yogurt, or even a hot cup of spiced chai or coffee will round out the experience perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Transform these rolls into a centerpiece by serving them in a rustic cast iron skillet for a cozy look. Or, present each pull apart roll on little plates with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert. You can also cut the baked rolls into smaller clusters and wrap them in parchment paper tied with twine for a charming gift or party favor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. The caramel pecans may soften slightly but the rolls will stay moist and delicious, making them perfect for snacking or breakfast the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze the unbaked, assembled rolls before the overnight rise. Wrap the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and then foil, and store in the freezer for up to one month. When ready to bake, thaw overnight on your counter and proceed with rising and baking the next day. Alternatively, freeze leftovers after baking and thaw gently before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 10 to 15 minutes, loosely covered with foil to keep the rolls moist and the caramel luscious. Avoid the microwave to preserve the texture of the pecans and the caramel’s shine.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe without butterscotch pudding mix?
The butterscotch pudding mix really adds a unique sweetness and soft texture to these rolls. However, if you don’t have it on hand, you can skip it, but the flavor will be less rich and creamy. You might consider adding a little extra cinnamon or a touch of vanilla extract for flavor.
Why do the rolls need to rise overnight at room temperature?
The overnight rise allows the dough to develop a light, airy texture and lets the flavors meld beautifully. This slow rise also ensures the rolls puff perfectly and soak up the caramel and cinnamon for a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Can I use store-bought caramel sauce instead of making it?
While store-bought caramel sauce can save time, making the caramel from butter and brown sugar gives a fresh, homemade depth and warmth that is hard to replicate. Plus, cooking the caramel in this way enhances the nutty aroma and blends perfectly with the cinnamon and butterscotch.
What is the best way to serve the rolls warm without them falling apart?
Letting the rolls rest for about 10 minutes after baking helps the caramel to set and the rolls to firm up slightly, making them easier to serve. Using a large plate or cookie sheet to flip the pan ensures a clean release without breaking them apart prematurely.
Can I substitute other nuts for pecans?
Absolutely! Walnuts or pecan halves work well and offer a similar crunch. Just keep in mind the flavor will shift — pecans have a buttery sweetness unique to these rolls. Avoid nuts that are too hard or overpowering in taste to keep the balance right.
Final Thoughts
Seriously, if you haven’t tried the Caramel Pecans and Cinnamon Pull Apart Rolls Recipe yet, you’re in for a treat that will make any morning feel special. The perfect harmony of soft, pull-apart rolls with crisp pecans and that rich caramel topping is a total crowd-pleaser. Once you experience how easy it is to make and how spectacular it tastes, this recipe will become a forever favorite you’ll want to bake again and again.
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Caramel Pecans and Cinnamon Pull Apart Rolls Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes (including overnight rise)
- Yield: 24 servings
Description
Caramel Pull Apart Rolls are a sweet, sticky treat perfect for breakfast or brunch. This recipe layers frozen dinner rolls over toasted pecans, sprinkles them with butterscotch pudding mix and cinnamon, and douses everything in a rich, homemade caramel sauce made from butter and brown sugar. After an overnight rise, the rolls bake to a golden brown, creating a gooey, nutty pull-apart pastry with warm caramel notes that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Ingredients
Nut Base
- 2 cups raw whole pecans
Rolls and Seasoning
- 24 frozen unbaked dinner rolls
- 1 (3.5 oz) box butterscotch pudding mix
- 2–3 tablespoons ground cinnamon (or enough to cover rolls)
Caramel Sauce
- ½ cup butter
- ¾ cup light brown sugar
Instructions
- Prepare rolls: Spray a 9×13″ baking dish with cooking spray and spread the pecans evenly across the bottom of the dish. Arrange the frozen dinner rolls on top of the pecans side-by-side to cover the base completely.
- Sprinkle with seasonings: Evenly sprinkle the butterscotch pudding mix over the rolls, then generously dust with ground cinnamon to cover the rolls completely. Set the dish aside for the next steps.
- Prepare caramel mixture: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and the light brown sugar together, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Continue cooking until the mixture turns a light amber color and has a distinct caramel aroma.
- Top rolls with caramel: Spoon the warm caramel sauce evenly over the rolls, ensuring each roll is coated with the buttery brown sugar mixture.
- Allow rolls to rise overnight: Spray plastic wrap with cooking spray to prevent sticking, then cover the baking dish tightly. Leave the dish on the counter at room temperature overnight to allow the dough to rise.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (176°C) the next morning. Remove the plastic wrap and bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and fully cooked through.
- Cool and serve: After baking, let the rolls rest for about 10 minutes. To serve, place a serving platter or cookie sheet over the baking dish, then flip the dish to release the caramel pull apart rolls onto the platter for easy sharing.
Notes
- Using frozen unbaked rolls allows for an effortless overnight rise without compromising texture.
- Spraying the plastic wrap prevents it from sticking to the dough during the rise.
- Adjust cinnamon quantity according to your taste preference for spice intensity.
- Letting the caramel sauce cook to a light amber stage ensures a rich but not burnt flavor.
- Flipping the dish onto a platter creates an impressive presentation and makes serving easier.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
