Description of this recipe
These Maple Pecan Sticky Buns are a delightful treat that combines the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon, maple syrup, and pecans. This recipe elevates the classic sticky bun to new heights, offering a sweet and nutty indulgence that is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. The soft, fluffy dough is enriched with butter and a touch of sweetness, creating a tender base that is complemented by the gooey, caramelized topping. Each bite is a symphony of textures and tastes, making these sticky buns an unforgettable experience. The aroma alone, as they bake in the oven, is enough to draw everyone into the kitchen, eager to partake in this homemade delight.
Why you will love this recipe
You will absolutely fall in love with this Maple Pecan Sticky Buns recipe for several reasons. First and foremost, the flavor combination is simply divine. The rich, nutty pecans perfectly complement the sweet, comforting maple syrup, while the cinnamon adds a warm, spicy note that ties everything together. The texture is also incredible; the soft, pillowy dough contrasts beautifully with the crunchy pecans and the gooey, caramelized topping.
Beyond the taste and texture, this recipe is also incredibly satisfying to make. There’s something truly rewarding about creating a batch of homemade sticky buns from scratch, from kneading the dough to watching them rise and bake to golden perfection. Plus, the recipe is versatile and can be adapted to your preferences. You can add a hint of orange zest to the dough for a citrusy twist or use different types of nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, for a unique flavor profile.
Finally, these Maple Pecan Sticky Buns are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving them to family on a weekend morning or bringing them to a potluck or holiday gathering, they are always a hit. The combination of familiar flavors and comforting textures makes them a universal favorite, and they’re sure to disappear quickly once they’re set out.
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast (1 packet)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk, warmed to lukewarm
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
For the Filling:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, for added warmth)
- 1 cup toasted pecans, roughly chopped
For the Maple Pecan Topping:
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- ½ cup pure maple syrup
- 1 cup toasted pecans, halved or roughly chopped
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, instant yeast, granulated sugar, and salt. Ensure the ingredients are well combined for even distribution.
Step 2: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, warm the milk to a lukewarm temperature. This helps activate the yeast. Add the melted and slightly cooled butter to the milk. Then, add the lightly beaten eggs to the milk and butter mixture. Whisk until all the wet ingredients are well combined.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Using a wooden spoon or a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, mix until a shaggy dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead on medium speed for about 5 minutes. The dough should be soft and pliable.
Step 4: First Rise
Lightly grease a large bowl with cooking spray or a small amount of oil. Place the kneaded dough into the greased bowl, turning to coat all sides. This prevents the dough from drying out. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Place the bowl in a warm, draft-free area and let the dough rise for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size. The rising time may vary depending on the temperature of your environment.
Step 5: Prepare the Filling
While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter, packed light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg (if using). Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined and form a smooth, spreadable paste.
Step 6: Prepare the Maple Pecan Topping
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the packed light brown sugar and pure maple syrup. Stir constantly until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat and stir in the toasted pecans.
Step 7: Assemble the Sticky Buns
Once the dough has doubled in size, gently punch it down to release the air. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Using a rolling pin, roll the dough into a large rectangle, about 12×18 inches.
Step 8: Add Filling
Spread the prepared filling evenly over the entire surface of the rolled-out dough. Make sure to cover all edges for maximum flavor in every bite.
Step 9: Roll and Slice
Starting from one of the long edges, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal it. Using a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss, slice the log into 12-15 equal-sized pieces.
Step 10: Arrange and Second Rise
Pour the maple pecan topping evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange the sliced sticky buns, cut-side up, in the prepared baking dish. Leave a little space between each bun to allow for expansion during baking. Cover the baking dish loosely with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let the sticky buns rise for another 30 minutes in a warm place.
Step 11: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap or towel from the baking dish. Bake the sticky buns in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and the topping is bubbly and caramelized.
Step 12: Invert and Serve
Once the sticky buns are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool in the baking dish for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the topping to set slightly. Place a large serving platter or baking sheet over the baking dish, then carefully invert the sticky buns onto the platter. The maple pecan topping should now be on top. Serve warm and enjoy!
COOKING Rating:
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Yields: 12-15 sticky buns
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 2 hours 15 minutes (including rising time)
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Enjoy with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea.
- Offer as a delightful addition to brunch spreads, alongside other breakfast favorites like scrambled eggs, bacon, and fresh fruit.
- Pair with a glass of cold milk for a comforting treat.
- Drizzle with extra maple syrup for an extra touch of sweetness.
Tips:
- Use Fresh Yeast: Ensure your instant yeast is fresh to guarantee a good rise. If you’re unsure, test it by mixing it with warm water and a pinch of sugar. It should foam up within 5-10 minutes.
- Don’t Overheat the Milk: When warming the milk, make sure it’s lukewarm and not too hot. Overly hot milk can kill the yeast and prevent the dough from rising properly.
- Knead Thoroughly: Kneading the dough is crucial for developing gluten, which gives the sticky buns their soft and chewy texture. Knead for the recommended time, either by hand or with a stand mixer, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Toast the Pecans: Toasting the pecans before adding them to the filling and topping enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch. Toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat or in the oven until fragrant and lightly golden.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep a close eye on the sticky buns while they’re baking to prevent them from overbaking. They should be golden brown and the topping should be bubbly and caramelized, but not burnt.
- Grease the Baking Dish Well: Ensure the baking dish is well-greased to prevent the sticky buns from sticking to the bottom. You can also line the dish with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Cool Slightly Before Inverting: Let the sticky buns cool in the baking dish for about 5-10 minutes before inverting them onto a platter. This allows the topping to set slightly, making them easier to handle.
- Store Properly: Store leftover sticky buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat them in the microwave or oven before serving.
Prep Time: 45 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 2 hours 15 minutes (including rising time)
Nutritional Information:
- (Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
- Calories: Approximately 450-550 per bun
- Protein: Approximately 6-8 grams per bun
- Sodium: Approximately 200-250 milligrams per bun
Conclusion
These Maple Pecan Sticky Buns are more than just a recipe; they’re an experience. From the moment you start kneading the dough to the first bite of warm, gooey goodness, this recipe is sure to delight your senses and leave you craving more. The combination of sweet maple syrup, crunchy pecans, and soft, pillowy dough is simply irresistible. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just a weekend treat, these sticky buns are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to create a batch of homemade happiness that will warm your heart and soul. Enjoy!
Questions and Answers about this Recipe
Q1: Can I use a different type of nut instead of pecans?
A: Absolutely! While pecans add a classic flavor to these sticky buns, you can easily substitute them with other nuts such as walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts. Each type of nut will bring its unique flavor profile to the recipe, so feel free to experiment and find your favorite combination.
Q2: Can I make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight?
A: Yes, you can definitely prepare the dough ahead of time. After kneading, place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it overnight. The next day, remove the dough from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before rolling it out and continuing with the recipe. This slow rise in the refrigerator can actually enhance the flavor of the dough.
Q3: Can I freeze the sticky buns after they are baked?
A: Yes, you can freeze the baked sticky buns for longer storage. Allow them to cool completely after baking. Then, wrap each bun individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to serve, thaw the sticky buns in the refrigerator or at room temperature, and then reheat them in the microwave or oven until warm.
Q4: Can I reduce the amount of sugar in this recipe?
A: While the sugar contributes to the overall sweetness and texture of the sticky buns, you can certainly reduce the amount if you prefer a less sweet treat. Start by reducing the sugar in the dough by 1/4 cup and the sugar in the filling and topping by 1/4 cup each. Keep in mind that reducing the sugar may affect the browning and caramelization of the topping, so you may need to adjust the baking time accordingly.
Q5: Can I add other spices to the filling besides cinnamon?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with the spices in the filling. A pinch of ground nutmeg or allspice can add a warm and cozy flavor. You can also add a dash of cardamom for a more exotic twist. Experiment with different spice combinations to find your personal favorite.
