The Best Maple Pecan Sticky Bun Recipe for a Sweet Breakfast
If you’re looking to elevate your breakfast game, look no further than this delightful Maple Pecan Sticky Bun Recipe. These sticky buns are perfect for a weekend brunch or a special occasion, combining the richness of maple syrup with the crunch of pecans for an unforgettable treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To whip up these delectable sticky buns, gather the following ingredients:
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a small saucepan, gently heat the milk until it’s warm but not boiling. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast, letting it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
Add the softened butter and eggs to the yeast mixture, mixing well. Gradually incorporate the flour and salt, kneading the dough until it’s smooth and elastic, about 5-7 minutes. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm environment until doubled in size, roughly 1 hour.
Step 2: Make the Filling
While the dough rises, prepare the sticky filling. In a medium bowl, mix together the brown sugar, cinnamon, and chopped pecans. Set aside for later use.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll it out into a rectangle approximately 18x12 inches. Spread a layer of softened butter over the dough, and then sprinkle the cinnamon-pecan mixture evenly on top.
Step 4: Shape the Buns
Starting from one end, tightly roll the dough into a log. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased baking dish. You can also line the dish with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
Step 5: Prepare the Sticky Topping
In a small saucepan, combine the maple syrup, butter, and a sprinkle of salt. Heat until melted and smooth. Pour this mixture over the rolled buns in the dish.
Step 6: Second Rise
Cover the baking dish with a towel and let it rise again until the buns have doubled in size, about 30-45 minutes. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) during this time.
Step 7: Bake the Sticky Buns
Bake the buns in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until they are golden brown. Remove from the oven and let them cool in the dish for about 10 minutes.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Carefully invert the buns onto a serving platter to reveal the sticky caramel topping. Serve warm and enjoy the sweet, nutty flavor of maple pecan sticky buns. They pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea!
Tips for the Best Sticky Buns
- For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a dash of vanilla extract to the dough.
- To make the buns even richer, you can use brown butter instead of regular butter.
- Feel free to experiment with other nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, if you prefer alternatives to pecans.
This Maple Pecan Sticky Bun Recipe is a surefire way to impress your family and friends, making any breakfast feel like a special occasion. Enjoy the sweet smell wafting through your home and the delicious taste of these warm, sticky treats!