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