Butter Pecan Sticky Buns

There’s something almost magical about pulling a pan of sticky buns from the oven—the golden swirls, the intoxicating smell of caramelized sugar, and that irresistible topping of glossy pecans. Butter Pecan Sticky Buns take that magic up a notch, combining soft, pillowy dough with a buttery caramel glaze and crunchy toasted pecans. It’s indulgence baked to perfection.

Behind the Recipe

This recipe was inspired by a lazy Sunday morning when I wanted something extra special for breakfast. Cinnamon rolls had always been my go-to, but I craved something with more depth, more richness. Enter pecans—nutty, buttery, and perfect for pairing with caramel. These buns are a nod to those comforting traditions, but with a southern charm twist.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Sticky buns trace their origins to German settlers in Pennsylvania, where they were known as “schnecken” (meaning snail, for their shape). Over time, the American version became richer, incorporating caramel and nuts. Butter Pecan Sticky Buns are a delicious offshoot of that legacy, blending classic sticky buns with the southern love for pecans and buttery sweetness.

Why You’ll Love Butter Pecan Sticky Buns

These buns are not just breakfast—they’re an experience.

Versatile: Perfect for brunch, dessert, or a holiday spread.

Budget-Friendly: Made with simple pantry staples.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble the night before, bake fresh in the morning.

Crowd-Pleasing: Gooey, nutty, sweet—what’s not to love?

Customizable: Add spices, swap nuts, or drizzle with extra caramel.

Great for Leftovers: Warmed up, they taste just as heavenly.

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Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Toast pecans first. It enhances their flavor and crunch.
• Don’t rush the dough. Let it rise fully for that soft, pillowy texture.
• Use brown sugar in the filling. It adds depth and molasses notes.
• Invert while warm. Turn the pan over just after baking so the sticky topping coats beautifully.
• Serve warm. Sticky buns are best when gooey and fresh.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll want handy:

Stand Mixer (optional): For kneading dough easily.
Mixing Bowls: For dough, filling, and glaze.
Rolling Pin: To roll out dough evenly.
9×13-inch Baking Dish: The perfect size for these buns.
Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring sticky glaze.
Sharp Knife or Dental Floss: For cleanly slicing rolls.

Ingredients in Butter Pecan Sticky Buns

Each element adds to the gooey, nutty perfection of these buns.

1. All-Purpose Flour: 4 cups – Base of the soft dough.
2. Whole Milk: 1 cup warm – Helps activate the yeast and enrich dough.
3. Active Dry Yeast: 2 1/4 teaspoons – Makes the dough rise.
4. Granulated Sugar: 1/3 cup – Light sweetness in the dough.
5. Unsalted Butter: 1/3 cup softened – Richness and flavor.
6. Eggs: 2 large – For structure and softness.
7. Salt: 1 teaspoon – Balances the sweetness.
8. Brown Sugar: 1 cup packed – Deep, caramel-like sweetness.
9. Ground Cinnamon: 2 teaspoons – Warm spice for the filling.
10. Chopped Pecans: 1 1/2 cups toasted – Nutty crunch and richness.
11. Heavy Cream: 1/2 cup – Adds gooey richness to the caramel topping.
12. Maple Syrup or Honey: 2 tablespoons – Enhances flavor of glaze.
13. Powdered Sugar (optional): For light dusting before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

Whole Milk: Use almond or oat milk.
Active Dry Yeast: Instant yeast (adjust rise time).
Pecans: Walnuts or almonds.
Brown Sugar: Coconut sugar for a lighter sweetness.
Heavy Cream: Half-and-half or evaporated milk.

Ingredient Spotlight

Pecans: Buttery, rich, and distinctly southern, they add the crunch and depth that make these buns unforgettable.

Brown Sugar: The molasses notes create a caramel-like base that makes the sticky glaze shine.

Instructions for Making Butter Pecan Sticky Buns

Here’s how to bring these buns from dough to gooey glory:

1. Preheat Your Equipment:
   Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Combine Ingredients:
   In a bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk with a pinch of sugar. Let it foam. Add butter, sugar, eggs, salt, and flour. Knead until dough is smooth.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:
   Cover dough with a towel, let rise for 1 hour until doubled.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   Roll dough into a rectangle. Spread softened butter, sprinkle with brown sugar, cinnamon, and half the pecans. Roll tightly and cut into 12 slices.
5. Cook to Perfection:
   In saucepan, melt butter with brown sugar, heavy cream, and maple syrup. Pour glaze into baking dish, scatter remaining pecans, then place rolls on top.
6. Finishing Touches:
   Cover and let rise 30 minutes. Bake 30–35 minutes until golden and bubbling.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Invert pan onto a platter while warm. Serve sticky side up, gooey and irresistible.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

These buns balance soft, pillowy bread with sticky, gooey caramel topping. The pecans add crunch, while the cinnamon-sugar swirl inside makes each bite rich and fragrant.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

• Use dental floss for perfect slices.
• Drizzle extra glaze on top for added decadence.
• Make mini versions in a muffin tin.

What to Avoid

• Don’t underbake—soggy buns won’t hold their shape.
• Don’t forget to invert while warm, or topping may stick to pan.
• Don’t skimp on pecans—they’re the star!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 12
Calories per serving: 420
Note: Approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours (including rise time)

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Assemble rolls the night before, cover, and refrigerate. In the morning, bring to room temp and bake. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Warm in microwave or oven before serving.

How to Serve Butter Pecan Sticky Buns

Serve warm with coffee, tea, or a glass of cold milk. They’re perfect for brunch spreads, holidays, or as a show-stopping dessert.

Creative Leftover Transformations

• Sticky Bun Bread Pudding: Cube and bake with custard.
• Ice Cream Topping: Warm slices and serve with vanilla ice cream.
• French Toast Bake: Layer buns with custard and bake again.

Additional Tips

• Sprinkle flaky sea salt for a salted caramel twist.
• Add orange zest to filling for brightness.
• Top with a drizzle of cream cheese glaze for extra indulgence.

Make It a Showstopper

Serve on a cake stand, with caramel dripping and pecans glistening, for a bakery-worthy presentation.

Variations to Try

• Pecan Caramel Rolls with Chocolate: Add chocolate chips.
• Apple Pecan Sticky Buns: Add diced apples to the filling.
• Vegan Sticky Buns: Use plant-based butter and milk.
• Bourbon Pecan Buns: Add a splash of bourbon to glaze.
• Mini Sticky Buns: Bake smaller portions for individual treats.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I use store-bought dough?

Yes, but homemade dough makes it extra special.

Q2: Can I make it nut-free?

Yes, omit pecans or replace with seeds.

Q3: How do I keep them gooey?

Don’t overbake and cover with foil if browning too quickly.

Q4: Can I freeze sticky buns?

Yes, freeze after baking, then reheat before serving.

Q5: Can I make these ahead?

Yes, refrigerate unbaked buns overnight, bake fresh in the morning.

Q6: Do I have to use pecans?

No, but they add classic flavor—try walnuts instead.

Q7: Can I make them smaller?

Yes, slice thinner and reduce baking time.

Q8: How do I reheat leftovers?

Warm in microwave or oven until gooey.

Q9: Can I add raisins?

Yes, they add a sweet chewiness.

Q10: Do they need frosting?

Not necessary, but a cream cheese drizzle is delicious.

Conclusion

Butter Pecan Sticky Buns are a true indulgence—gooey, nutty, buttery, and oh-so comforting. Perfect for lazy mornings, festive gatherings, or anytime you need a sweet pick-me-up. Trust me, one bite and you’ll know—it’s worth every swirl.

Watch How To Make Butter Pecan Sticky Buns