Name: Sticky Pecan Cinnamon Buns Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 28 min
Total time: 3 h 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/4 cups warm milk (105-110°F); 1 (1/4-ounce) package active dry yeast (about 2 1/4 teaspoons); 8 Tablespoons granulated sugar, divided; 1 large egg, at room temperature; 1 teaspoon Kosher salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more as needed; 3/4 cup light brown sugar; 1 1/2 Tablespoons ground cinnamon; 6 Tablespoons salted butter, softened (do NOT melt); 1 1/2 cups toasted pecans, roughly chopped; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 2/3 cup packed brown sugar; 1/4 cup heavy cream; 3 Tablespoons pure maple syrup; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 37 reviews

If you’ve ever dreamed of sweet, gooey, nut-studded treats fresh from the oven, this Sticky Pecan Cinnamon Buns Recipe is here to make those cravings a reality. Overflowing with warm cinnamon, rich buttery layers, and a decadent pecan caramel topping, these buns capture that perfect balance of soft, fluffy dough and irresistible stickiness. Whether you’re making them for a lazy weekend brunch or a cozy holiday morning, these buns feel like a warm hug in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white marbled surface holds an organized display of baking ingredients, including two sticks of pale yellow butter on a paper on the top left, a small bowl of dark amber liquid next to it, a small glass bowl with light tan yeast, and a clear bowl of white granulated sugar in the top row. Below these, a small bowl holds a brown egg, another bowl filled with dark brown pecan halves, and beside it a bowl with light brown soft dough. To the right are a stick of salted butter with blue text, two glass jars labeled cinnamon and salt with golden lids. At the bottom left, a large bowl is filled with white flour, next to it a small clear jug of light cream and a larger clear measuring jug containing more cream. The items are spaced neatly and evenly, all on a clean white marbled background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this Sticky Pecan Cinnamon Buns Recipe plays a crucial role, from the tender dough that rises beautifully to the luscious syrupy pecan topping that caramelizes into pure magic. You’ll find that with simple pantry staples, you’re set to create a show-stopping treat that tastes like a bakery masterpiece.

Warm milk (1 1/4 cups, 105-110°F): This activates the yeast gently to ensure a perfect rise.
Active dry yeast (1 package, about 2 1/4 teaspoons): The magic power behind those fluffy, airy buns.
Granulated sugar (8 tablespoons, divided): Balances richness and aids in browning the dough perfectly.
Large egg (1, room temperature): Adds structure and richness to the dough.
Kosher salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the sweet and buttery flavors.
Unsalted butter (1/2 cup melted + 6 tablespoons softened + 1/2 cup for topping): Provides moisture and heavenly richness throughout.
All-purpose flour (4 cups, plus more as needed): Builds the dough’s soft yet sturdy backbone.
Light brown sugar (3/4 cup): Offers deep molasses notes to the filling.
Ground cinnamon (1 1/2 tablespoons): The heartwarming spice that every cinnamon bun craves.
Salted butter (6 tablespoons, softened): Spreadable and perfect for infusing the swirl with creamy goodness.
Toasted pecans (1 1/2 cups, roughly chopped): Add crunchy texture and nutty richness for that irresistible sticky topping.
Heavy cream (1/4 cup): Makes the pecan topping luxuriously smooth and sticky.
Pure maple syrup (3 tablespoons): Brings a more complex sweetness to the caramelized glaze.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon for topping): Just a pinch to balance the sweetness of the topping beautifully.

How to Make Sticky Pecan Cinnamon Buns Recipe

Step 1: Proof Your Yeast

Begin by waking up your yeast in warm milk with a tablespoon of sugar. This bubbly activation assures your dough will rise wonderfully light and airy. It’s a simple step that promises a soft, tender bun every time.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Dough

Whisk the egg, sugar, and salt until combined in a large bowl. Add melted butter along with the bubbly yeast mixture, then slowly incorporate the flour. Knead gently but thoroughly until you get a smooth, elastic dough that feels soft but not sticky. It’s that texture that yields the perfect crumb.

Step 3: Let It Rise

Cover your dough and place it somewhere warm—like inside a slightly warmed oven alongside a small bowl of hot water—to encourage a steady rise. You’ll want to wait until it doubles in size, which usually takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Patience here rewards you with light, fluffy rolls.

Step 4: Prepare the Topping

Grease a 9×13 inch pan generously, then scatter the toasted pecans evenly on the bottom. In a small saucepan, melt butter and stir in brown sugar, cream, maple syrup, and salt—cooking it down into a thick, fragrant caramel. Pour this luscious mixture evenly over the pecans so every bite will be decadently sticky.

Step 5: Roll Out and Fill the Dough

Once risen, punch down the dough gently to release air and roll it out on a floured surface into a rough 15×20 inch rectangle. Brush the softened butter evenly over the surface, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture liberally across it. Pressing it in slightly will help secure every sweet layer.

Step 6: Shape and Slice

Roll the dough tightly starting from a shorter end to create neat spirals of cinnamon sweetness inside. Pinch the edges to seal and then slice into 12 even pieces using a serrated knife or clean dental floss to avoid squishing. They’re just waiting to nestle into the pecan-layered pan.

Step 7: Final Rise and Bake

Allow the assembled rolls to rise again until doubled—about 30 to 45 minutes—then pop them into a preheated 350°F oven. Bake for around 25 to 28 minutes, until golden and tempting on top. Let them cool slightly before flipping them out to showcase the sticky pecan goodness on the bottom.

How to Serve Sticky Pecan Cinnamon Buns Recipe

A close-up view of a single cinnamon roll on a white plate, topped thickly with whole glazed pecans that have a shiny, sticky texture. The cinnamon roll has a soft, light golden-brown dough with a visible spiraled layer of cinnamon filling inside. Some pecans are fallen next to the roll on the plate. The background is a white marbled surface with more cinnamon rolls blurred in the distance, one of which also sits on a white plate. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

While these buns shine brilliantly on their own, a quick dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of cream cheese glaze can add an extra layer of sweetness and visual appeal. Toasted additional pecans sprinkled on top can elevate the texture even more.

Side Dishes

Think fresh fruit like berries or crisp apples to balance the richness of the buns, or pair them with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a breakfast that feels truly special. A simple side salad with tangy citrus dressing can also refresh the palate beautifully if serving for brunch.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the Sticky Pecan Cinnamon Buns Recipe stacked on a rustic wooden board for casual gatherings, or arrange them in individual ramekins and bake for personal servings—perfect for brunch parties or gift-giving moments. Wrapping one up with a ribbon makes a lovely homemade gift too!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After indulging your first batch, store leftover buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Wrap them individually or keep them together to maintain moisture and softness—warm them slightly before serving for that just-baked feel.

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully! After baking and cooling, place the buns in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature.

Reheating

To bring back that fresh-from-the-oven softness, warm buns gently in the oven at 300°F for 10 to 15 minutes, or microwave individually wrapped buns for about 20 seconds. This quick heat-up revives the gooey texture and the sticky pecan topping perfectly.

FAQs

Can I use frozen pecans for the Sticky Pecan Cinnamon Buns Recipe?

Yes, frozen pecans work fine as long as they are thawed and patted dry before toasting and adding to the topping. Toasting them fresh intensifies their flavor and crunch.

Is it necessary to use both brown sugar and granulated sugar?

Absolutely! Granulated sugar helps activate the yeast and creates structure in the dough, while brown sugar adds that signature molasses flavor to the filling and topping.

Can I make this dough using a stand mixer?

Definitely! A stand mixer with a dough hook makes kneading easier and more consistent, saving you time and effort while achieving the perfect dough texture.

What’s the best way to roll and slice the dough?

Roll it tightly but gently from the shorter end to secure filling inside, then slice with a serrated knife or unflavored dental floss to avoid crushing the swirls.

Can I use a different nut if I don’t like pecans?

Of course! Walnuts or almonds can be great substitutes and will still lend that delicious crunch and nutty flavor needed for the topping.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Sticky Pecan Cinnamon Buns Recipe enough—it’s one of those delightful dishes that fills your kitchen with warm aromas and your heart with joy. Whether you’re sharing with loved ones or treating yourself, these sticky, nutty, cinnamon-sweet buns will quickly become a treasured favorite. So go ahead, roll up those sleeves and bake a batch—you deserve it!