Sumptuous Cinnamon and Pecan Sticky Rolls with Caramel Glaze

Indulge in the decadent world of Cinnamon and Pecan Sticky Rolls, a treat that combines the warmth of cinnamon with the rich crunch of pecans, all wrapped in a soft, fluffy dough. These rolls are topped with a luscious caramel glaze that not only adds a shiny, appetizing finish but also infuses each bite with a deep, buttery sweetness, making them irresistible. The use of traditional ingredients like piloncillo and maple syrup or honey in the caramel provides a unique flavor that sets these rolls apart from ordinary cinnamon buns.

Why You’ll Love This

These sticky rolls are the perfect blend of textures and flavors. The dough is light and airy, the filling is rich and spicy with cinnamon, and the caramel glaze is smoothly satisfying, creating a delightful contrast. The addition of pecans offers a nutty crunch that complements the softness of the bread and the sweetness of the caramel. These rolls are not just a treat; they’re an experience, perfect for savoring on a cozy morning or as a sweet end to a family meal.

Perfect Occasion

Cinnamon and Pecan Sticky Rolls are ideal for special breakfasts, brunch gatherings, or as a festive treat during the holidays. They can be a star at a bake sale or a welcome addition to any potluck. Their appealing look and sumptuous taste make them suitable for both casual and formal settings, and they’re sure to impress guests at any event.

Decoration Tips

For an extra touch of elegance, drizzle additional caramel or even a sprinkle of powdered sugar over the rolls once they are inverted onto the serving platter. If serving at a festive occasion, a garnish of toasted pecan halves or a dusting of ground cinnamon can enhance their visual appeal and add to the festive flavor.

Ingredients:

• Caramel:
  • 67 grams unsalted butter
  • 1/3 cup piloncillo (or similar, finely ground)
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
  • 1 cup pecans
• Pre-ferment:
  • 1/4 cup warm milk
  • 1 1/4 teaspoons yeast
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
• Dough:
  • Prepared pre-ferment
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup milk (room temperature or warm)
  • 30 grams butter (room temperature)
  • 1 egg
• Filling:
  • 50 grams piloncillo (finely ground)
  • 50 grams unsalted butter (room temperature)
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon powder

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Caramel:
   • In a saucepan, melt butter, add piloncillo, milk, and honey or maple syrup. Cook until melted and integrated.
   • Pour the caramel into a baking dish lined with parchment paper, then sprinkle evenly with pecans.
2. Make the Dough:
   • Combine milk, yeast, and sugar for the pre-ferment in a bowl. Let it sit until it becomes foamy.
   • In a mixer bowl, mix flour, salt, and sugar. Make a well in the center.
   • Add milk, egg, pre-ferment, and butter into the well. Start mixing with a dough hook until the dough is elastic, about 10 minutes.
   • Cover and let rise until doubled, about 1 hour.
3. Assemble the Rolls:
   • Flour a surface and roll out the dough into a rectangle. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough.
   • Roll up the dough tightly, cut into 6 equal pieces, and place them over the caramel and pecans in the dish.
   • Cover and let rise for an additional 35-40 minutes.
4. Bake:
   • Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Brush the rolls with beaten egg.
   • Bake for about 35 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Finishing Touches:
   • Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then carefully invert onto a serving tray.

Enjoy these warm, inviting Cinnamon and Pecan Sticky Rolls, a perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and nutty flavors that are sure to delight all who taste them.