If you’re looking for a show-stopping bakery-style recipe to impress friends and family, then Brown Butter Pecan Sticky Buns are the way to go. These irresistible rolls are soft, gooey, and drenched in a rich brown butter caramel sauce. They’re topped with toasted pecans that add a lovely crunch and nutty flavor, making them the perfect treat for a weekend brunch or a special holiday morning.
Imagine the classic cinnamon roll, but with a deeper, nuttier, and more indulgent twist. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or someone who’s just starting out in the kitchen, this recipe is a must-try. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a batch of Brown Butter Pecan Sticky Buns that will wow everyone at the table.
Brown Butter Pecan Sticky Buns Recipe
Prep Time: 30 min (plus 1½–2 hrs rise)
Bake Time: 30–35 min
Yields: 12 sticky buns
What Are Brown Butter Pecan Sticky Buns?
Brown Butter Pecan Sticky Buns are an elevated take on the classic sticky bun, made by replacing the typical butter with brown butter to enhance the flavor profile. Brown butter gives these buns a deep, nutty flavor, while the caramel topping adds sweetness and richness. Toasted pecans are scattered over the top, adding an extra layer of crunch and flavor. These sticky buns are not just any sweet treat—they are a decadent dessert that combines flavors and textures in a way that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
The Origin of Sticky Buns
Sticky buns have been around for centuries, originating in Europe and making their way to the United States by way of German immigrants. The recipe has evolved over time, but the core concept remains the same: a sweet, cinnamon-filled roll drenched in a gooey caramel sauce. Sticky buns are often served as a breakfast or brunch dish, especially during the holidays or special occasions, and have become a staple in bakeries across the world.
The pecan version we know and love today has become popular thanks to its ability to pair perfectly with the caramel sauce, creating a balance of sweetness and rich nuttiness. While the precise origins of Brown Butter Pecan Sticky Buns are unknown, the use of brown butter in baking is a trend that has gained popularity in recent years for its ability to bring depth and complexity to both sweet and savory dishes.
Ingredients for Brown Butter Pecan Sticky Buns
For the Dough:
- ¾ cup warm milk (about 105–110°F)
- 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp salt
- 3 ¾ – 4 cups all-purpose flour
Brown Butter Pecan Caramel Topping:
- ¾ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- ¼ cup honey or maple syrup
- 2 tbsp heavy cream
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups pecan halves or pieces, lightly toasted
For the Cinnamon Filling:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Step-by-Step Instructions for Brown Butter Pecan Sticky Buns
1. Make the Dough
Start by activating the yeast. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and 1 tsp of sugar. Let this mixture sit for 5–10 minutes, or until it becomes foamy. This step is essential as it ensures your dough will rise properly.
Next, whisk in the remaining sugar, eggs, melted butter, and salt into the mixture. Gradually add in the flour, starting with 3 ¾ cups, and mix until a soft dough begins to form. You can use a stand mixer with a dough hook for this step if you prefer.
Once the dough starts to come together, transfer it to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 6–8 minutes. The dough should become smooth and elastic. Once kneaded, place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise for 1 to 1½ hours, or until it has doubled in size.
2. Make the Brown Butter Pecan Caramel
While the dough is rising, it’s time to make the brown butter pecan caramel topping. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt unsalted butter and cook it until it turns a golden brown color and releases a nutty aroma—this should take around 4–5 minutes.
Once the butter has browned, whisk in the brown sugar, honey, heavy cream, and salt. Let it simmer for about 2 minutes, then remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. The caramel should be smooth and rich in flavor.
Next, pour the caramel into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the toasted pecans evenly over the caramel. Set this aside while you shape the rolls.
3. Make the Filling
For the filling, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Mix everything together until smooth, creating a thick, spreadable paste. This cinnamon filling is what will make your sticky buns extra sweet and aromatic.
4. Shape the Rolls
Once the dough has finished rising, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface into a 16×12-inch rectangle. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough.
Now, starting from the long edge, carefully roll the dough into a log. Make sure to roll it tightly so that the filling stays inside. Once rolled, slice the dough into 12 equal rolls. Place the rolls on top of the caramel-pecan mixture in the baking dish, ensuring they are snug but not overcrowded.
5. Second Rise
Cover the rolls loosely with plastic wrap or a damp towel and allow them to rise for 30–45 minutes in a warm place. They should become puffy and slightly expanded during this time.
6. Bake the Sticky Buns
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the rolls have completed their second rise, bake them for 30–35 minutes. You’ll know they are done when the tops are golden brown, and the caramel is bubbling at the edges.
Allow the rolls to cool in the pan for about 5–10 minutes, then carefully invert the pan onto a serving platter. This will ensure that the gooey caramel and toasted pecans are on top.
7. Serve Warm
Serve your Brown Butter Pecan Sticky Buns warm, drizzling any extra caramel over the top. For an extra touch, you can sprinkle the rolls with a pinch of flaky sea salt to balance the sweetness with a little savory finish.
Tips & Variations for Perfect Brown Butter Pecan Sticky Buns
Make-Ahead Tip:
If you want to save time, you can make these sticky buns the night before. After shaping the rolls, cover them tightly and refrigerate overnight. The next morning, let the rolls rise for 45–60 minutes before baking. This method is perfect for preparing ahead of time for a stress-free brunch.
Extra Gooey Option:
For an even more indulgent caramel topping, consider adding an extra 2 tbsp of honey to the caramel sauce. This will make it even more gooey and sticky, enhancing the flavor.
Spice Twist:
If you want to add an extra layer of warmth to the flavor, consider adding a pinch of cardamom or nutmeg to the cinnamon filling. These spices pair beautifully with the brown butter and pecans, giving your sticky buns a unique and cozy taste.
Crispy Option:
If you prefer your pecans to have a little more crunch, toast them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 6–8 minutes before using them. This will bring out their flavor and give them a satisfying crunch.
FAQs About Brown Butter Pecan Sticky Buns
1. Can I use other nuts besides pecans?
Yes! While pecans are traditional for sticky buns, you can also use other nuts such as walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts for a different flavor and texture.
2. Can I freeze these sticky buns?
Yes, these sticky buns freeze well. After baking, let them cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in the oven at **350
°F (175°C)** for about 10 minutes.
3. What if my dough doesn’t rise properly?
If your dough doesn’t rise as expected, it could be because the yeast was old or the milk was too hot or cold. Make sure your yeast is fresh and the milk is at the correct temperature (about 105–110°F).
Conclusion
There you have it—the ultimate recipe for Brown Butter Pecan Sticky Buns. These gooey, nutty, caramel-filled delights are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, these sticky buns offer a decadent treat that everyone will love.
With their rich brown butter caramel topping and crunchy toasted pecans, these buns are the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and indulgent. Follow the instructions carefully, and you’ll have a batch of sticky buns that are bakery-quality, with a flavor that surpasses any store-bought version.
Now that you’ve mastered the recipe, go ahead and treat yourself and your loved ones to a batch of these Brown Butter Pecan Sticky Buns. Enjoy!
Brown Butter Pecan Sticky Buns: The Ultimate Indulgence
- Total Time: 55 mins
- Yield: 8 sticky buns 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Brown Butter Pecan Sticky Buns are an elevated take on the classic sticky bun, made by replacing the typical butter with brown butter to enhance the flavor profile. Brown butter gives these buns a deep, nutty flavor, while the caramel topping adds sweetness and richness. Toasted pecans are scattered over the top, adding an extra layer of crunch and flavor. These sticky buns are not just any sweet treat—they are a decadent dessert that combines flavors and textures in a way that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
¾ cup warm milk (about 105–110°F)
2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
¼ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs, room temperature
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 tsp salt
3 ¾ – 4 cups all-purpose flour
For the Brown Butter Pecan Caramel Topping:
¾ cup unsalted butter
1 cup brown sugar, packed
¼ cup honey or maple syrup
2 tbsp heavy cream
¼ tsp salt
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 ½ cups pecan halves or pieces, lightly toasted
For the Cinnamon Filling:
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
½ cup brown sugar, packed
2 tbsp granulated sugar
1 tbsp cinnamon
Pinch of salt
Instructions
1. Make the Dough
In a large bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and 1 tsp sugar. Let sit 5–10 minutes, until foamy.
Whisk in remaining sugar, eggs, melted butter, and salt.
Gradually mix in flour (start with 3 ¾ cups) until a soft dough forms.
Knead on a floured surface for 6–8 minutes (or use a stand mixer with dough hook) until smooth and elastic.
Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled — about 1 to 1½ hours.
2. Make the Brown Butter Pecan Caramel
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and cook until golden brown with a nutty aroma (about 4–5 minutes).
Whisk in brown sugar, honey, heavy cream, and salt. Simmer for 2 minutes, then remove from heat and stir in vanilla.
Pour caramel into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and sprinkle evenly with toasted pecans.
Set aside while shaping the rolls.
3. Make the Filling
In a small bowl, mix softened butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
4. Shape the Rolls
Punch down risen dough and roll it out into a 16×12-inch rectangle.
Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough.
Roll up tightly from the long side into a log.
Slice into 12 equal rolls and place them on top of the caramel-pecan layer in the pan.
5. Second Rise
Cover loosely with plastic wrap or a damp towel and let rise in a warm spot for 30–45 minutes, until puffy.
6. Bake
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake for 30–35 minutes, until golden brown and bubbling at the edges.
Cool in the pan for 5–10 minutes, then carefully invert onto a serving platter (so the caramel-pecan topping is on top).
7. Serve Warm
Spoon any extra caramel over the buns.
Sprinkle with a little flaky salt if you love that sweet-salty finish.
Notes
For extra indulgence, drizzle warm caramel or cream cheese glaze over the sticky buns before serving. They’re best enjoyed fresh out of the oven with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy breakfast treat.
- Prep Time: 30 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Breakfast / Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Baking
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bun
- Calories: 450
Keywords: Brown Butter Pecan Sticky Buns
