Maple Pecan Sticky Buns

$- 2 cups all-purpose flour - 1/4 cup granulated sugar - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) instant yeast - 1/2 cup warm milk (about 110°F) - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted - 1 large egg - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed - 1/2 cup chopped pecans - 1/4 cup maple syrup - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg - 1/4 cup raisins (optional for added sweetness) For Maple Pecan Sticky Buns, these ingredients work together to create soft, sweet rolls. Each one plays a big role in the final flavor and texture. - Gluten-free flour alternatives: Use a blend of gluten-free flour and xanthan gum. - Dairy-free milk options: Swap warm milk with almond or soy milk. - Sweetener substitutions: Replace brown sugar with coconut sugar or maple sugar for a different taste. These substitutes can help you enjoy sticky buns, even if you have dietary needs. Each option offers a unique twist while keeping the spirit of this treat alive. {{ingredient_image_1}} - Mixing dry ingredients: Start by adding 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1 packet of instant yeast into a bowl. Stir them well together to blend. This mix gives your sticky buns a sweet base. - Combining wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup warm milk, 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Make sure everything is mixed nicely. The warm milk helps activate the yeast. - Kneading the dough: Gradually add the wet mix to the dry ingredients. Use your hands to combine, kneading until a soft dough forms. This will take about 5-7 minutes. The dough should feel smooth and elastic when ready. - First rise process: Place the dough in a greased bowl. Cover it with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm area. It will double in size in about 1 hour. This step is key for soft buns. - Rolling out the dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release air. Roll it out into a rectangle, about 12x8 inches. Use a floured surface to keep it from sticking. - Filling and cutting the buns: In a small bowl, mix 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, and 1/2 cup chopped pecans. Spread this mix evenly over the rolled-out dough. Roll the dough tightly from the longer side to form a log. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces. - Preparing the baking dish: Grease your baking dish. Place the cut buns in the dish, making sure they are close but not touching. - Second rise guidance: In a saucepan, heat 1/4 cup maple syrup and the remaining butter over medium heat until melted and slightly thickened. Pour this mixture over the buns in the dish. Let the buns rise again for about 30 minutes as you preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). - Baking temperature and time: Bake the sticky buns for 25-30 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking. Once done, allow them to cool for a few minutes before flipping onto a plate. - Tips for dough consistency: Start with the right flour. Use all-purpose flour for the best results. When you mix the wet and dry ingredients, the dough should be soft but not sticky. If it feels too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth. - Timing the rises properly: Let the dough rise in a warm place. Cover it with a clean towel to keep it warm. The first rise should take about 1 hour or until it doubles in size. The second rise is important too. After you shape the buns, let them rise again for about 30 minutes. This makes them soft and fluffy. - Avoiding overbaking: Keep an eye on your buns while they bake. They should be golden brown after 25-30 minutes. Use a toothpick to check. If it comes out clean, they are done. If you bake them too long, they can dry out. - Best accompaniments: Maple pecan sticky buns pair well with coffee or tea. The warm flavors enhance each other. A glass of milk also works nicely for a sweet treat. - Plating techniques for presentation: To make your sticky buns look great, drizzle extra maple syrup on top before serving. Adding whole pecans as a garnish gives a nice touch. Arrange the buns on a pretty plate to make them inviting. - Storing leftovers: If you have any buns left, store them in an airtight container. They can last for a few days at room temperature. To keep them fresh longer, refrigerate them. When you are ready to eat, heat them in the microwave for a few seconds. This will bring back their soft texture. Pro Tips Perfect Dough Consistency: Ensure your dough is soft but not sticky. If it's too sticky, add a little more flour, and if it's too dry, add a splash of milk. Rising in a Warm Place: If your kitchen is cool, place the dough in an oven that’s turned off, with the light on. This will create a warm environment for the dough to rise. Cutting Even Rolls: Use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut the log into equal pieces. This will help maintain the shape and ensure even baking. Storing Leftovers: Keep any leftover sticky buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds before serving. {{image_2}} You can change up the flavors of your maple pecan sticky buns to keep things fun. Adding chocolate chips gives a sweet twist. You can also mix in dried fruit, like cranberries or cherries, for a burst of flavor. If you want something different, try spices like cardamom or ginger instead of cinnamon. Each spice adds its own unique taste. You can also use other nuts, like walnuts or almonds, to bring new texture and flavor to your buns. If you're looking for vegan options, use a flax egg instead of a real egg. Mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit until it thickens. For butter, use coconut oil or vegan butter. You can also lower the sugar by using maple syrup or agave instead of granulated sugar. If you want a healthier option, try whole grain flour instead of all-purpose flour. This gives your sticky buns more fiber and nutrients. These swaps make delicious treats that fit your diet. To keep your maple pecan sticky buns fresh, store them in the fridge. Place them in an airtight container. This keeps them soft and tasty for up to five days. If you don't have an airtight container, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. This will help prevent them from drying out. If you want to save the sticky buns for later, you can freeze them. First, let the buns cool completely. Then, wrap each bun in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer bag. They will stay good in the freezer for up to three months. When you are ready to eat them, take them out and reheat. To reheat, place the buns in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. You can also use a microwave for quicker heating. If using the microwave, heat for 20-30 seconds. This will help keep them soft and warm. Enjoy your sticky buns fresh, even after freezing! How long do sticky buns last? Sticky buns stay fresh for about 2 to 3 days at room temperature. Keep them in a sealed container to avoid drying out. Can I make the dough in advance? Yes! You can make the dough a day ahead. Just cover it well and store it in the fridge. This will give the flavors more time to develop. What's the best way to reheat sticky buns? To reheat, place sticky buns in a warm oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. This keeps them soft and gooey. Why did my sticky buns not rise? If your buns did not rise, the yeast may be old or inactive. Always check the expiration date on your yeast before using it. How to fix overly sticky dough? If the dough is too sticky, add a little flour, one tablespoon at a time, while kneading. This will help you get the right texture. What to do if the buns turned out dry? If the buns are dry, they may have baked too long. Next time, check them a few minutes earlier for perfect softness. This blog covered everything you need to make great maple pecan sticky buns. We discussed key ingredients, like yeast and warm milk, and explored substitutes for different diets. You learned step-by-step instructions for preparing the dough, shaping the buns, and baking them perfectly. Don't forget the tips for achieving the best results and the various flavor options you can try. Now, you have all the tools to create delicious sticky buns at home. Enjoy your baking and share your tasty results!$

Maple Pecan Sticky Buns

Delicious sticky buns made with a sweet maple syrup and pecan filling.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 30

Total Time 2

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 12

Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) instant yeast
1/2 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1/4 cup maple syrup
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 cup raisins (optional for added sweetness)

Instructions

In a bowl, mix together the flour, granulated sugar, salt, and instant yeast.
In a separate bowl, whisk the warm milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Gradually combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients and knead until a soft dough forms (about 5-7 minutes).
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm area until it doubles in size (about 1 hour).
Once risen, punch down the dough and roll it out into a rectangle (about 12x8 inches).
In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, chopped pecans, and raisins (if using).
Spread the mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough, then start rolling the dough tightly from the longer side to form a log.
Cut the log into 12 equal pieces and place them into a greased baking dish.
In a saucepan, heat the maple syrup and remaining butter over medium heat until melted and slightly thickened. Pour over the prepared buns in the dish.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Allow the buns to rise again for about 30 minutes while the oven heats up.
Bake the sticky buns for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown. Allow to cool for a few minutes before inverting onto a serving plate.

Notes

Drizzle extra maple syrup over the top before serving and garnish with whole pecans for an appealing touch. Serve warm for the best texture and flavor!

Keyword dessert, maple syrup, pecans, sticky buns