Sticky buns are a beloved treat that combine sweet, gooey goodness with a soft, fluffy dough. These irresistible rolls are packed with cinnamon, butter, and sugar, topped with a sticky glaze that makes them the ultimate breakfast or dessert. Whether you’re enjoying them on a cozy morning or sharing them at a special gathering, sticky buns are sure to delight everyone. This recipe ensures a perfect balance of flavors and textures, creating a homemade version that’s as good (if not better) than any store-bought option.
Ingredients:
For the dough:
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 package active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- 1/4 cup raisins or currants (optional)
For the glaze:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, warm the milk to about 110°F, then stir in the yeast and a teaspoon of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, until foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
- Stir everything together until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle approximately 16×12 inches.
- Spread the softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon, followed by the optional chopped nuts and raisins.
- Starting from the long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Slice the log into 12 equal pieces.
- To prepare the glaze, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the brown sugar, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the mixture is smooth and bubbling, then remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Pour the glaze into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Arrange the cinnamon rolls on top of the glaze, making sure they are close together.
- Cover the pan with a towel and let the buns rise for another hour, or until they are puffed up and touching.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the sticky buns for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Once the buns are done, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool for 5 minutes. Then, invert the pan onto a serving platter so the sticky glaze coats the buns.
- Serve the sticky buns warm and enjoy the sweet, gooey perfection!
Sticky buns are a treat that can bring comfort and joy to any occasion. With their irresistible sweetness, cinnamon warmth, and tender texture, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Whether enjoyed as a decadent breakfast or an afternoon snack, sticky buns are an absolute crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds.