The Best Sticky Pecan Cinnamon Buns

Name: The Best Sticky Pecan Cinnamon Buns
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup sugar; 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast; 1/2 cup milk, warmed; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 egg; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 tbsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup pecans, chopped; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tbsp milk; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Elevate your holiday brunch with these irresistible Sticky Pecan Cinnamon Buns. Warm, gooey, and topped with crunchy pecans and a drizzle of sweet glaze, this recipe captures the essence of fall and is perfect for sharing with family and friends at Thanksgiving gatherings. The fluffy dough, aromatic cinnamon, and nutty flavor create a delightful treat that will have everyone coming back for more.

Created by

Clara Jennings

Last updated on 2025-12-01T11:19:53.323Z

Sticky Pecan Cinnamon Buns are the ultimate comfort food. Ideal for those chilly mornings or festive occasions, they bring a touch of warmth and sweetness to your table.

A Perfect Holiday Treat

These Sticky Pecan Cinnamon Buns are not just a delicious breakfast option; they are a versatile treat that fits perfectly into any holiday spread. Their warm, gooey texture and sweet aroma fill your kitchen, instantly creating a cozy atmosphere that enhances the holiday experience. Whether served alongside a delicious hot cup of coffee or as a sweet finish to a festive meal, these buns are sure to impress your guests.

Crafted with love, each bite of these cinnamon buns delivers a satisfying blend of flavors and textures. The nuttiness of the pecans complements the rich cinnamon filling, while the sticky glaze adds just the right amount of sweetness. When you share these decadent treats with family and friends, you're not just offering a dessert; you're providing an experience that evokes feelings of joy and togetherness.

Tips for Perfecting Your Buns

For the best results, make sure your ingredients are at room temperature, especially the butter and egg. This helps create a smooth and pliable dough that rises beautifully. Additionally, using freshly ground cinnamon can enhance the flavor profile of your cinnamon buns, making them more aromatic and delicious. Don't be afraid to experiment with the amount of pecans or even add your favorite spices to the filling for a unique twist on this classic recipe.

Kneading the dough properly is essential for achieving that soft and fluffy texture. Aim for a smooth and elastic consistency, which typically takes around five minutes of kneading. Be sure to give your dough enough time to rise; this step is crucial for developing flavor and creating the airy structure that distinguishes a perfect cinnamon bun.

Serving Suggestions

Ingredients

For the Dough

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup sugar
1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
1/2 cup milk, warmed
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 egg
1/2 tsp salt

For the Filling

1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tbsp ground cinnamon
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup pecans, chopped

For the Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tbsp milk
1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Make sure to have all ingredients measured and ready before starting.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy. Add melted butter, egg, and salt, then gradually add flour, mixing until a dough forms.

Knead and Rise

Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled in size, about 1 hour.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon. Roll out the dough into a rectangle, spread softened butter, and sprinkle cinnamon sugar and chopped pecans evenly.

Roll and Cut

Roll the dough tightly from the long side. Cut into 12 rolls and place in a greased baking dish. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes.

Bake

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake rolls for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.

Prepare the Glaze

In a bowl, mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over warm buns before serving.

Serve warm and enjoy the delightful flavors!

Storage and Reheating

These Sticky Pecan Cinnamon Buns can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you’d like to keep them longer, consider freezing them. To freeze, wrap each bun individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored this way for up to two months, preserving their delicious flavor and texture.

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen buns, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. To reheat, you can either warm them in a microwave for about 20-30 seconds or place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This will revive the gooeyness and warmth, making them taste as good as fresh-baked.

Variations to Explore

Feel free to customize this recipe based on your preferences or dietary needs. For a more decadent twist, try adding chocolate chips to the filling for a chocolate-pecan cinnamon bun experience. If you’re looking for a healthier option, substitute the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or a gluten-free blend, while also considering alternative sweeteners like maple syrup or coconut sugar.

You can also experiment by adding dried fruits, such as raisins or cranberries, to the filling for additional sweetness and a chewy texture. Additionally, a dash of nutmeg or allspice can be introduced alongside the cinnamon to create more layers of flavor. Play around with the ingredients to discover delicious combinations that suit your palate!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare the dough the night before?

Yes, you can refrigerate the dough after kneading and let it rise in the fridge overnight.

→ Can I use walnuts instead of pecans?

Absolutely! Walnuts can be used as a tasty substitute.