Maple Pecan Sticky Buns

By:

Sarah

Published:

October 4, 2025

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Why This Recipe Works

The secret behind perfect Maple Pecan Sticky Buns lies in the dough and how it’s proofed. When flour meets yeast, magic happens! Yeast feeds on the sugar and creates carbon dioxide, making the dough rise and become light. After mixing, letting the dough sit helps develop flavor and texture, enhancing your buns. Plus, the glorious combination of maple and pecan offers a delightful balance; the sweetness of the syrup harmonizes with the nutty crunch of pecans for a taste that’s simply irresistible.

Now, texture is everything. You want soft, pillowy buns paired with a gooey, sticky topping that pulls everything together. When the buns bake, the topping transforms into a luscious glaze, sealing in that warm, sweet flavor while giving you that lovely contrast of textures.

Why You’ll Love This Maple Pecan Sticky Buns

These Maple Pecan Sticky Buns are rich and comforting, making them the perfect treat for any occasion. They transform a regular morning into something special and are so easy to prepare! Imagine pulling a warm, sweet bun from the oven, ready to be shared with family and friends.

These buns are not just for dessert. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, creating a delightful breakfast experience or a lovely afternoon snack. Trust me, you’ll find yourself reaching for a second (and maybe a third) as the rich flavors wrap around you like a cozy blanket.

Ingredients for Maple Pecan Sticky Buns

1 1/4 cups (300 ml) milk
2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
1 tsp sugar (used to bloom the yeast)
4 3/4 cups (593 g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
1 1/2 tsp salt
2 tbsp sugar
2 eggs, whisked
1/2 cup (112 g) unsalted butter, softened
1 tbsp vanilla extract
1 1/3 cup (293 g) brown sugar
2 tbsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp nutmeg
3/4 cup (168 g) unsalted butter, softened (for topping)
1/2 cup (120 ml) maple syrup
1/4 cup (60 ml) heavy cream
1/4 tsp salt (for topping)
1 cup (112 g) chopped pecans

Prepare the Dough

Bloom the Yeast

First, let’s wake up the yeast! Heat your milk to a cozy 105-110°F. It shouldn’t be too hot or too cold. Mix the active dry yeast, sugar, and warm milk together and then let it sit until it becomes foamy, which usually takes about five minutes. This step ensures your dough rises beautifully.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a stand mixer, combine your flour, salt, and sugar. Blend them well since these dry ingredients will lay the foundation for your dough.

Mix Wet Ingredients

Next, add the whisked eggs, softened butter, and vanilla extract to the bowl with your dry ingredients. Feel free to stir it a bit, but we’re not done yet!

Knead the Dough

Pour in that foamy yeast mixture, combining everything together. Knead the mixture in your stand mixer until the dough is smooth and slightly sticky. Form it into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover it and let it rest in a warm spot until it doubles in size, about an hour. This rise is crucial for fluffy buns.

Create the Filling

Prepare the Filling Mixture

Now, let’s create the filling that’ll make your Maple Pecan Sticky Buns unforgettable. Combine softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Mix it until smooth and creamy. This filling will add a luscious sweetness.

Make the Sticky Topping

Mix Sticky Topping Ingredients

In another bowl, blend softened butter, vanilla extract, brown sugar, maple syrup, heavy cream, and salt until it’s smooth. This sticky topping is what makes these buns so amazing.

Assemble and Bake the Sticky Buns

Roll Out the Dough

Once your dough has risen, it’s time to roll it out! Dust your work surface and roll the dough into an 18 x 12″ rectangle. It doesn’t have to be perfect, just ensure it’s roughly that size.

Apply Filling

Spread the filling mixture evenly over the rolled dough. Don’t be shy; make sure it covers every corner. Now roll it up tightly into a log shape, starting from one of the long edges.

Cut and Arrange Buns

Slice your log into 1 1/2-inch pieces. Place them in a greased casserole dish, keeping them over the sticky topping and chopped pecans. You can arrange them snugly; they’ll expand as they rise.

Second Rise and Bake

Let your buns rise until they roughly double in size again. Preheat your oven to 350°F during this time. Bake for about 40-45 minutes until they turn golden brown. Watch closely, as your kitchen fills with an irresistible aroma!

Serving Suggestions

You can’t go wrong with these buns straight out of the oven. Enjoy them warm and drizzle with a little extra maple syrup if you’d like! They pair wonderfully with fresh fruit or a side of whipped cream for an extra treat.

Tips for Success

Getting the milk temperature just right is essential, as too hot can kill the yeast. Patience is crucial too! Don’t rush those rising times; they significantly enhance flavor and texture.

Variations

For a different twist on your Maple Pecan Sticky Buns, try substituting walnuts for pecans for a unique flavor. If you’re feeling indulgent, tossing in some chocolate chips could add a delightful sweetness you won’t forget!

Storage Tips

To keep your buns fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container or a Ziploc bag at room temperature for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, rewarmed in the oven is the best way to go!

Pairing Ideas

These Maple Pecan Sticky Buns are a great match with a steaming cup of coffee or even a touch of dessert wine. For a balanced breakfast, serve alongside fresh fruit salads or yogurt.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough the night before and refrigerate it to slow down the rising. Just let it come back to room temperature before rolling out.

What if I don’t have maple syrup?

No worries! You can substitute with agave nectar or honey, but keep in mind it will change the flavor a bit.

Can I freeze these sticky buns?

Yes! Just freeze them after baking. To serve, reheat from frozen in the oven.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

You can use plant-based milk, flaxseed meal instead of eggs, and vegan butter to make them vegan-friendly.

How do I know when the buns are ready to bake?

When the buns have doubled in size and feel light and airy to the touch, they’re ready to head into the oven.