Maple Pecan Sticky Buns: The Ultimate Gourmet Breakfast Indulgence
If you’ve ever walked into a luxury bakery and caught the intoxicating aroma of caramelized sugar, roasted pecans, and warm cinnamon, you know the magic of sticky buns. This Maple Pecan Sticky Bun recipe brings that same gourmet bakery experience right into your kitchen. Perfect for holiday mornings, Sunday brunch, or a luxurious weekend treat, these sticky buns combine soft, pillowy dough with a rich maple-pecan caramel glaze that feels like a true indulgence.
Whether you’re an experienced home baker or just looking for an easy brunch idea that looks bakery-quality, this recipe will become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love These Maple Pecan Sticky Buns
- Bakery-Style at Home – Skip the overpriced café lines and make professional-quality sticky buns in your own kitchen.
- Premium Ingredients for Maximum Flavor – Real organic maple syrup, farm-fresh butter, and toasted pecans make all the difference.
- Make-Ahead Convenience – Perfect for holiday mornings, you can prep these sticky buns overnight and bake them fresh in the morning.
- Irresistible Caramel Glaze – Made with maple syrup, brown sugar, and butter, this topping creates that glossy, gooey, indulgent finish.
Ingredients for Maple Pecan Sticky Buns
For the Dough (soft & fluffy):
- 4 cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour for extra chew)
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm whole milk (about 110°F, for yeast activation)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tsp sea salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
For the Filling (sweet & spiced):
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp nutmeg (optional, for warmth)
For the Maple Pecan Topping (sticky & luxurious):
- ¾ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- ½ cup pure organic maple syrup (not pancake syrup—real maple for best results)
- 2 tbsp heavy cream (for richness)
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups pecans, toasted and roughly chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Dough
- In a mixing bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and a pinch of sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
- Add eggs, melted butter, sugar, and salt. Mix until combined.
- Gradually add flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead for 8–10 minutes by hand (or 5 minutes with a stand mixer dough hook).
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1–2 hours until doubled in size.
Step 2: Prepare the Maple Pecan Topping
- In a saucepan, melt butter, brown sugar, and maple syrup over medium heat until smooth.
- Stir in heavy cream and vanilla. Let simmer for 2–3 minutes.
- Pour topping into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle toasted pecans evenly over the glaze.
Step 3: Roll and Fill the Dough
- Punch down the risen dough and roll into a large rectangle (about 16×12 inches).
- Spread softened butter over the surface.
- Sprinkle with brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Roll tightly from the long side into a log. Slice into 12 even rolls.
Step 4: Assemble and Rise Again
- Place rolls cut-side up over the maple pecan topping in the baking dish.
- Cover loosely and let rise for 45–60 minutes, until puffy.
Step 5: Bake and Serve
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, until golden brown.
- Let rest for 5 minutes, then carefully invert onto a serving platter so the sticky maple-pecan topping drips down the buns.
Pro Tips for Perfect Sticky Buns
- Use Bread Flour – For that chewy, bakery-style texture.
- Toast Your Pecans – Brings out a deeper, nuttier flavor.
- Overnight Option – After assembling, refrigerate covered overnight. Bake in the morning for a stress-free holiday breakfast.
- Drizzle with Extra Maple Syrup – For an ultra-luxurious finish.
Serving Ideas
- Pair with a latte, cappuccino, or French press coffee for the ultimate gourmet breakfast.
- Serve warm with a side of fresh fruit or yogurt for a balanced brunch spread.
- Make them part of a holiday dessert buffet alongside cheesecakes, pies, and tarts.
Final Thoughts
These Maple Pecan Sticky Buns aren’t just a recipe—they’re an experience of luxury baking. With their rich, caramelized maple glaze, buttery dough, and crunchy pecans, they’re perfect for family gatherings, holiday mornings, or anytime you want to impress with a bakery-quality dessert.Categories