Caramel Sticky Buns: A Sweet and Decadent Delight

Caramel Sticky Buns are the ultimate indulgence, perfect for a cozy weekend breakfast or an after-dinner treat. The soft, fluffy dough, filled with a rich cinnamon and nutmeg-spiced filling, is drenched in a sticky, gooey caramel topping that makes every bite a heavenly experience. These buns are a delightful balance of textures and flavors, combining the buttery, spiced filling with the creamy caramel glaze for an unforgettable treat.

For more inspiration on caramel desserts, check out How to Make Perfect Caramel and Best Cinnamon Roll Recipes.

In this article, we’ll take you through the steps for making these incredible caramel sticky buns, starting from the filling to the dough, and finally, the luscious caramel topping. Additionally, we’ll share tips for making this recipe even more delicious and provide a few variations for dietary adaptations.

Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions

Caramel Sticky Buns Recipe: The Ultimate Sweet Breakfast Treat

---

• Author: Jennifer Mitchell
• Total Time: 2 hours
• Yield: 12 buns 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

These Caramel Sticky Buns are a perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors, with a rich caramel topping that perfectly complements the soft, buttery dough. Filled with a cinnamon-sugar mixture and topped with chopped toasted pecans, these buns are an irresistible treat for breakfast, brunch, or any time you’re craving something indulgent. The combination of homemade caramel and gooey sweetness will have everyone coming back for more!

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Filling:

• 4 ounces unsalted butter (115g; 8 tablespoons), creamy and soft, about 70°F (21°C)
• 6 ounces light brown candi sugar (170g; about 3/4 cup), such as Brewer’s Best or deeply toasted sugar
• 1/4 ounce ground cinnamon (about 1 tablespoon)
• 1/2 teaspoon grated nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon Diamond Crystal kosher salt (for table salt, use about half as much by volume or the same weight)

For the Dough:

• 16 ounces all-purpose flour (454g; about 3 1/2 cups), such as Gold Medal, plus more for rolling
• 3 1/2 ounces plain or lightly toasted sugar (100g; about 1/2 cup)
• 2 teaspoons instant yeast (such as SAF; not rapid-rise – see notes)
• 1 3/4 teaspoons Diamond Crystal kosher salt (for table salt, use about half as much by volume or the same weight)
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 4 ounces unsalted butter (115g; 8 tablespoons)
• 4 fluid ounces (1/2 cup) milk
• 8 ounces plain, unsweetened Greek yogurt (226g; about 1 cup), any percentage will do
• 4 ounces toasted pecan halves, roughly chopped (113g; about 1 cup), or more to taste

For the Caramel Topping:

• 12 ounces light brown candi sugar (340g; about 1 1/2 cups), such as Brewer’s Best or deeply toasted sugar
• 4 fluid ounces (1/2 cup) heavy cream
• 1/4 teaspoon Diamond Crystal kosher salt (for table salt, use about half as much by volume or the same weight)

---

Instructions

1. Make the Caramel Topping:

   • In a medium saucepan, combine the light brown candi sugar, heavy cream, and kosher salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture begins to bubble. Once it starts to bubble, reduce the heat and simmer for 5-6 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
   • Remove the saucepan from the heat and set aside to cool while you prepare the rest of the recipe.

2. Prepare the Dough:

   • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, plain sugar, instant yeast, kosher salt, and baking soda.
   • In a separate bowl, melt the unsalted butter and combine it with the milk and Greek yogurt. Mix until well combined and smooth.
   • Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until the dough starts to come together.
   • Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Add more flour as needed if the dough is too sticky.
   • Once kneaded, shape the dough into a ball, cover the bowl with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

3. Prepare the Filling:

   • In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, light brown candi sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and kosher salt. Stir until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined.

4. Assemble the Sticky Buns:

   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
   • Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air, then roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle, about 12×18 inches in size.
   • Spread the filling mixture evenly over the dough, leaving about a 1-inch border on the edges. Sprinkle the chopped toasted pecans evenly over the filling.
   • Starting from one long side, tightly roll the dough into a log, then slice it into 12 even pieces.
   • Arrange the sliced buns in the prepared baking dish, ensuring they are close together but not touching. Cover the dish with a cloth and let the buns rise for 30 minutes, until puffed.

5. Bake the Buns:

   • Bake the buns in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The buns should be soft and slightly puffed.

6. Add the Caramel Topping:

   • Once the buns are done, remove them from the oven and immediately pour the cooled caramel topping over the warm buns. Use a spatula to spread it evenly over the buns.
   • Let the buns cool slightly in the pan before serving, allowing the caramel to set and become sticky.

7. Serve:

   • Serve warm, with extra caramel sauce if desired. Enjoy the rich, gooey goodness of these Caramel Sticky Buns!

Notes

The caramel topping can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently before pouring over the buns.

If you prefer, you can substitute the pecans with other nuts, such as walnuts, or omit them entirely for a nut-free version.

Instant yeast is recommended for this recipe because it doesn’t require proofing. If using active dry yeast, dissolve it in warm milk with a pinch of sugar before adding to the dry ingredients.

• Prep Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (includes dough rising time)
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert, Breakfast, Brunch
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bun
• Calories: 370 kcal
• Sugar: 30g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 44g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 45mg

Keywords: Caramel Sticky Buns

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready.
2. Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking soda. Add the butter, yogurt, and the yeast mixture, then stir to combine. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour, but be careful not to overwork it.
3. First Rise: Form the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rise for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. Mix the Filling: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the soft butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Buns

1. Roll Out the Dough: After the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a 12×18-inch rectangle.
2. Spread the Filling: Evenly spread the filling mixture over the dough, leaving a small border along the edges. Sprinkle the toasted pecans evenly over the filling.
3. Roll Up the Dough: Starting from one edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Once rolled, slice the log into 12 even pieces. Place the buns in a greased baking dish, leaving a little space between each bun to allow them to rise.

Step 4: Second Rise and Bake

1. Second Rise: Cover the buns with a damp cloth and let them rise for 30-45 minutes until puffed up.
2. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the buns for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 5: Prepare the Caramel Topping

1. Make the Caramel: While the buns are baking, make the caramel topping. In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, heavy cream, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture begins to bubble. Continue cooking for 5-7 minutes until the caramel thickens slightly.
2. Top the Buns: Once the buns are baked, remove them from the oven. While they’re still warm, pour the caramel over the top, allowing it to seep into the buns.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Allow the caramel sticky buns to cool slightly before serving. The caramel will be hot and gooey, so be careful when you take a bite. Enjoy these sticky buns as a sweet breakfast or a decadent dessert!

Advanced Techniques

1. Making the Caramel Perfect

To achieve the perfect caramel topping, be sure to cook it just long enough so that it thickens without turning into candy. The key is to keep stirring constantly to prevent it from burning. If the caramel becomes too thick, simply stir in a little more cream to loosen it up.

2. Freezing and Reheating

If you have leftover buns or want to prepare them ahead of time, you can freeze them before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble the buns in the baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and freeze. When ready to bake, let them thaw overnight in the fridge, then follow the instructions for the second rise and baking. If freezing after baking, store the buns in an airtight container, and reheat them in the microwave or oven.

3. Adding Flavor Variations

Feel free to get creative with the flavors. You can swap the pecans for other nuts like walnuts or almonds, or even add some chocolate chips for a sweet twist. For a citrusy zing, consider adding a bit of orange zest to the filling.

See more advanced recipes, at Mobolux.

Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips

1. Storing Leftovers

Caramel sticky buns are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. If you prefer them warm, reheat them in the microwave for about 20 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.

2. Freezing the Buns

To freeze the buns, wait until they have completely cooled. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator, and reheat them as mentioned above.

Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions

1. Vegan Version

To make these sticky buns vegan, substitute the butter with a plant-based butter or coconut oil. Use dairy-free yogurt and a non-dairy milk of your choice. For the caramel topping, opt for coconut cream and a vegan-friendly sugar to maintain the sweetness.

2. Gluten-Free Option

To make the buns gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour. Make sure to check that all the other ingredients, like the yogurt and baking soda, are also gluten-free.

3. Nut-Free Version

If you’re looking for a nut-free option, simply omit the pecans in the filling and caramel topping. You could substitute them with raisins or dried cranberries for added texture.

FAQs About The Recipe

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and let it rise in the fridge overnight. Simply let it come to room temperature and finish assembling the buns the next day.

2. How do I prevent the caramel from hardening?

To keep the caramel soft and gooey, make sure to pour it over the buns while they’re still warm. If you find that the caramel is too hard after cooling, gently reheat it with a bit of cream to restore its liquid texture.

3. Can I use different types of sugar?

Yes, you can experiment with different sugars like dark brown sugar or coconut sugar. These alternatives will give your caramel sticky buns a different flavor profile but will still work well in the recipe.

Conclusion & Final Thoughts

These Caramel Sticky Buns are the ultimate treat for any occasion. With their soft, fluffy dough and decadent caramel topping, they make for the perfect indulgent breakfast or dessert. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh from the oven or reheating leftovers, these sticky buns will surely satisfy your sweet tooth.

Enjoy this irresistible treat with family and friends, and don’t be afraid to get creative with your fillings or toppings. No matter how you make them, these caramel sticky buns are bound to become a beloved recipe in your kitchen.