Maple Pecan Sticky Buns

Maple Pecan Sticky Buns is a medium American recipe that serves 8. 320 calories per serving. Recipe by Sally's Baking Recipes on YouTube.

Prep: 1 hr 30 min | Cook: 25 min | Total: 2 hrs 15 min

Cost: $7.72 total, $0.96 per serving

Ingredients

  • 4 cups Bread Flour (sifted)
  • 1 cup Warm Milk (about 110°F, helps activate yeast)
  • 2 tsp Active Dry Yeast (proofed in warm milk with a pinch of sugar)
  • ¼ cup Granulated Sugar (divided: 2 tbsp for dough, 2 tbsp for filling)
  • ½ cup Unsalted Butter (softened, plus extra 2 tbsp for filling)
  • 1 Large Egg (room temperature)
  • 1 tsp Salt (fine sea salt)
  • ½ cup Maple Syrup (pure grade A)
  • ¾ cup Brown Sugar (packed)
  • 1 cup Pecan Halves (roughly chopped)
  • 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
  • ½ tsp Ground Cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Proof the Yeast

    In the large mixing bowl combine warm milk, 2 tbsp granulated sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let sit 5‑10 minutes until foamy.

    Time: PT10M

  2. Mix the Dough

    Add bread flour, softened butter, remaining 2 tbsp sugar, egg, and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix on low speed 2 minutes, then on medium speed 5 minutes until a smooth, elastic dough forms.

    Time: PT7M

  3. First Rise

    Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise in a warm place until doubled, about 60 minutes.

    Time: PT1H

    Temperature: 75°F

  4. Prepare the Sticky Filling

    While the dough rises, melt 2 tbsp butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add brown sugar, maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then add pecan halves and coat them. Remove from heat and set aside.

    Time: PT10M

    Temperature: Medium

  5. Shape the Buns

    Turn the risen dough onto a lightly floured surface. Punch down gently, then roll into a 12‑inch rectangle about ½‑inch thick. Spread the remaining 2 tbsp softened butter over the surface, then sprinkle the maple‑pecan mixture evenly.

    Time: PT15M

  6. Cut and Arrange

    Using a sharp knife or dental floss, cut the rolled dough into 8 equal pieces. Place each piece seam‑side down in the prepared 9‑x‑13‑inch baking dish. Drizzle any remaining sticky mixture over the tops.

    Time: PT5M

  7. Second Rise

    Cover the pan loosely with foil and let the buns rise for another 30 minutes until puffy.

    Time: PT30M

    Temperature: 75°F

  8. Bake

    Preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake the buns for 20‑25 minutes, until golden brown and the caramel is bubbling.

    Time: PT25M

    Temperature: 350°F

  9. Cool and Serve

    Allow the sticky buns to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before serving. Serve warm, optionally with extra maple syrup.

    Time: PT10M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
320
Protein
5 g
Carbohydrates
45 g
Fat
15 g
Fiber
2 g

Dietary info: Vegetarian

Allergens: Gluten, Dairy, Eggs, Tree Nuts

Last updated: April 22, 2026

Amazon Associates

Amazon Associates PartnerTrusted

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases made through links on this page. This helps support our site at no extra cost to you. Clicking on ingredient or equipment links will take you to amazon.com where you can purchase these items.

Maple Pecan Sticky Buns

Recipe by Sally's Baking Recipes

Sweet and gooey Maple Pecan Sticky Buns made from scratch. This make‑ahead breakfast treat can be prepared the night before and baked fresh in the morning for a special occasion.

MediumAmericanServes 8

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
2h 27m
Prep
25m
Cook
21m
Cleanup
3h 13m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$7.72
Total cost
$0.96
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Proofing the yeast to ensure it is active.
  • Preparing the caramel filling without burning.
  • Second rise for a fluffy interior.

Safety Warnings

  • Hot caramel can cause severe burns; handle with care.
  • Use oven mitts when removing the hot baking dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of Maple Pecan Sticky Buns in American breakfast cuisine?

A

Maple pecan sticky buns are a Southern‑inspired twist on classic cinnamon rolls, incorporating maple syrup—a staple of New England—and pecans, a common Southern nut. They have become a popular make‑ahead treat for holidays and brunches across the United States.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of sticky buns in the United States?

A

In the South, sticky buns often feature pecans and brown sugar, while in the Pacific Northwest they may use hazelnuts and local maple syrup. Some Midwestern versions add raisins or apple pieces for extra texture.

cultural
Q

How is Maple Pecan Sticky Buns traditionally served in American brunch culture?

A

They are typically served warm, straight from the oven, sometimes drizzled with extra maple syrup and accompanied by coffee or tea. They are a centerpiece for holiday brunches and special weekend breakfasts.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is Maple Pecan Sticky Buns traditionally associated with in American culture?

A

These sticky buns are popular for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter brunches, and birthday celebrations because they can be prepared ahead of time and baked fresh for guests.

cultural
Q

What makes Maple Pecan Sticky Buns special or unique in American pastry tradition?

A

The combination of rich maple caramel and crunchy pecans creates a sweet‑savory contrast that sets them apart from ordinary cinnamon rolls, offering a deeper, nutty flavor profile that reflects regional American ingredients.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Maple Pecan Sticky Buns?

A

Common errors include using milk that is too hot, which kills the yeast; over‑cooking the caramel, which turns bitter; and skipping the second rise, which leads to a dense texture. Following the proofing and rise times closely prevents these issues.

technical
Q

Why does this Maple Pecan Sticky Buns recipe use a two‑stage rise instead of a single long rise?

A

The first rise develops gluten strength and flavor, while the second rise after shaping allows the buns to expand evenly, giving a light, airy crumb. Skipping the second rise can result in a heavy, dense bun.

technical
Q

Can I make Maple Pecan Sticky Buns ahead of time and how should I store them?

A

Yes. Prepare the dough and filling the night before, refrigerate the dough overnight, and bake fresh in the morning. Store baked buns in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze for up to two months.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when making Maple Pecan Sticky Buns?

A

The buns should be golden‑brown on top, with a glossy caramel glaze. When cut, the interior should be soft, fluffy, and slightly moist, with visible swirls of pecan‑maple filling.

technical
Q

How do I know when Maple Pecan Sticky Buns are done cooking?

A

The buns are done when the tops are deep golden brown and the caramel is bubbling around the edges. A quick tap on the bottom should sound hollow, indicating a fully baked interior.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Sally's Baking Recipes specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Sally's Baking Recipes specializes in home‑baked sweet treats, ranging from classic pastries to modern twists, with step‑by‑step tutorials that focus on approachable techniques for home bakers.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Sally's Baking Recipes' approach to American pastry cooking differ from other baking channels?

A

Sally's Baking Recipes emphasizes make‑ahead planning, detailed ingredient sourcing tips, and clear visual cues, often incorporating regional American flavors like maple and pecan, whereas many other channels focus on European classics or quick microwave recipes.

channel

You Might Also Like

Similar recipes converted from YouTube cooking videos

Copycat Italian Herb and Cheese Sub Buns
398

Copycat Italian Herb and Cheese Sub Buns

Homemade soft Italian‑style sub rolls topped with Parmesan and Italian seasoning. Made with a simple yeasted dough, these fluffy buns are perfect for sandwich fillings or enjoying plain. The recipe walks you through warming the milk, activating the yeast, kneading, two rises, and a quick bake for a golden, aromatic crust.

2 hrs 20 minServes 5$80
Italian
Potato Buns (Hamburger Buns)
182

Potato Buns (Hamburger Buns)

Soft, pillowy potato‑enriched hamburger buns that are slightly sweet, lightly seeded with sesame, and perfect for smash‑style burgers. The dough is enriched with mashed russet potato, a cold fermentation, and a quick bake at 350°F for a golden, glossy crust.

2 hrs 50 minServes 12$3
American
Perfect Sticky Buns
22

Perfect Sticky Buns

These soft, fluffy sticky buns feature a super‑soft dough made with a cooked flour‑water paste, a no‑cook caramel "goo" of butter, brown sugar, corn syrup and a hint of salt, toasted pecans, and a simple brown‑sugar‑cinnamon filling. The buns are baked uncovered then finished covered to ensure a tender interior and a glossy caramel top. Makes 12 generous buns.

3 hrs 49 minServes 12$4
American
Michelin Sticky Toffee Pudding at Home
2.8k

Michelin Sticky Toffee Pudding at Home

A luxurious British sticky toffee pudding that uses coffee‑soaked dates, beef suet for a light yet rich sponge, and a deep umami caramel sauce finished with soy sauce and clotted cream. Inspired by Michelin‑starred gastro‑pub chefs Tom Kerridge and Sarah Haywood.

2 hrs 30 minServes 8$43
British
3 Ingredient Carnivore Buns - NO Pork Rinds or Whipped Egg Whites
169

3 Ingredient Carnivore Buns - NO Pork Rinds or Whipped Egg Whites

A simple, grain‑free carnivore bread made with just eggs, powdered milk, and baking powder. Shaped into six soft buns and baked in an air fryer for a quick, low‑carb snack that mimics the texture of cornbread.

33 minServes 2$20
American
Claire Saffitz Makes Walnut Maple Sticky Buns
6

Claire Saffitz Makes Walnut Maple Sticky Buns

Soft, slightly sweet breakfast buns packed with toasted walnuts, a maple‑vanilla glaze, and a fragrant cardamom‑citrus filling. Inspired by classic sticky buns but balanced for a lighter breakfast treat.

4 hrs 15 minServes 12$11
American
Claire Saffitz's Walnut Maple Sticky Buns
1

Claire Saffitz's Walnut Maple Sticky Buns

Soft, sweet yeasted buns topped with toasted walnuts, a maple‑brown‑sugar glaze, and a fragrant orange‑cardamom filling. Inspired by Claire Saphé's Dessert Person cookbook, these breakfast buns are perfect for a weekend brunch or a special morning treat.

17 hrs 25 minServes 12$19
American
The PERFECT Sticky Buns Recipe
1

The PERFECT Sticky Buns Recipe

These ultra‑rich sticky buns are buttery, caramel‑glazed, and packed with pecans and cinnamon. Made with a milk‑based enriched dough, they rise slowly for maximum fluffiness, then bake to a golden caramel crust. Perfect for a weekend brunch or a special dessert.

3 hrs 50 minServes 12$7
American