Name: Sticky Buns with Cinnamon Sugar and Caramel Glaze Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 2 h 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6½ tablespoons granulated sugar; 5½ tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 egg, slightly beaten; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 3½ cups (437.5 g) bread flour; 2 teaspoons instant yeast; 1 cup (244 ml) + 2 tablespoons whole milk, at room temperature; 6½ tablespoons granulated sugar; 1½ tablespoons ground cinnamon; 1 cup (227 g) unsalted butter, at room temperature; ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar; ½ cup (110 g) light brown sugar; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ cup (170.5 ml) light corn syrup; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ cup (49.5 g) coarsely chopped pecans

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 42 reviews

If you are craving something warm, sweet, and utterly irresistible for breakfast or brunch, this Sticky Buns with Cinnamon Sugar and Caramel Glaze Recipe is exactly what your kitchen needs. Imagine soft, fluffy buns loaded with a buttery cinnamon sugar filling and drenched in a rich, glossy caramel glaze studded with crunchy pecans. Every bite delivers cozy sweetness and a sticky, melt-in-your-mouth texture that turns a simple treat into a memorable experience. Whether it’s a special occasion or a lazy weekend morning, these sticky buns will lift your spirits and fill your home with the most comforting aroma.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Two images side by side show a clear glass bowl on a light blue cloth on a white marbled surface. Inside the bowl is a pale beige dough ball. The dough ball in the left image is smaller and denser with a rough texture. The dough ball in the right image is larger, softer, and more risen, showing slight cracks on top. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting started on this darling of a recipe means gathering a handful of simple ingredients that each play an important role in making your Sticky Buns with Cinnamon Sugar and Caramel Glaze Recipe truly shine. From the soft yeast dough to the fragrant cinnamon sugar and the luscious caramel glaze, each component is a small but essential star.

Granulated sugar: Sweetens both the dough and the cinnamon sugar filling perfectly without overpowering.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness and tenderness to the dough and caramel, making buns melt-in-your-mouth delightful.
Salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing sweetness with a subtle savory note.
Egg: Binds ingredients together and contributes to a beautiful golden color in the dough.
Vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to both the dough and glaze, elevating the aroma.
Bread flour: Gives the dough the strength and chew it needs, creating light yet sturdy buns.
Instant yeast: The magical agent that makes the dough rise into soft and airy buns.
Whole milk: Adds moisture and richness to the dough for tenderness and flavor.
Ground cinnamon: The star spice in the cinnamon sugar filling, indispensable for that classic sticky bun taste.
Light brown sugar: Creates deep caramel notes in the glaze with its molasses content.
Light corn syrup: Ensures the caramel glaze stays smooth and glossy with just the right stickiness.
Coarsely chopped pecans: Adds delightful crunch and nutty flavor, balancing the sweetness beautifully.

How to Make Sticky Buns with Cinnamon Sugar and Caramel Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by combining the bread flour, instant yeast, granulated sugar, and salt in a large mixing bowl. In another bowl, whisk together the room temperature butter, egg, vanilla extract, and warm milk until smooth. Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry until a shaggy dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8 to 10 minutes until it becomes soft, elastic, and slightly tacky. Place it in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, about 1 to 1 ½ hours.

Step 2: Create the Cinnamon Sugar Filling

While the dough is rising, mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon for the filling. This simple blend will sprinkle sweetness and that evocative spice into every swirl of the buns. The cinnamon not only gives flavor but also a lovely color that contrasts with the fluffy dough beautifully.

Step 3: Roll and Fill the Dough

Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle about 12×18 inches. Brush it lightly with softened butter, then evenly sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture all over. The butter acts like glue while adding richness. Starting at one long edge, roll up the dough tightly into a log, pinching the seam to seal.

Step 4: Cut and Arrange Buns in Pan

Using a sharp knife or dental floss, cut the log into 12 equal pieces. Arrange these spiraled buns cut side up, close but not squished, in a buttered 9×13-inch baking pan. Cover and let rise for another 40 minutes to get puffy and ready for baking.

Step 5: Prepare the Caramel Glaze

While the buns are proofing, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in granulated sugar, light brown sugar, salt, and corn syrup. Bring to a boil and let simmer gently for 3 to 5 minutes until thickened and bubbly. Remove from heat and quickly stir in vanilla extract and pecans. Pour this heavenly caramel topping evenly over the buns right before baking.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Sticky

Place the pan in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the buns are golden brown and the caramel is bubbling around the sides. Let the buns cool for 10 to 15 minutes before flipping the pan over onto a serving platter so the caramel glaze drips beautifully down each bun.

How to Serve Sticky Buns with Cinnamon Sugar and Caramel Glaze Recipe

The image shows two white rectangular baking dishes filled with unbaked cinnamon rolls arranged in three rows and five columns. Each roll has a spiral shape with a light dough color on the outside and a darker cinnamon brown swirl in the center. The dough looks soft and slightly shiny, and the rolls are closely packed in the dishes, touching each other. The background is a white marbled texture with some small crumbs and flour scattered around. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For an extra touch of magic, sprinkle a few extra toasted pecans or a light dusting of powdered sugar over the buns just before serving. A small smear of cream cheese frosting on top is a decadent option that pairs beautifully with the caramel. Fresh fruit like sliced apples or strawberries on the side adds brightness and balance.

Side Dishes

Sticky buns shine at breakfast or brunch alongside simple sides that let their rich flavors stand out. Consider smoky bacon or savory sausage to contrast the sweetness, or a light green salad tossed with a tangy vinaigrette for a refreshing counterpoint. A cup of freshly brewed coffee or a spiced chai latte is the perfect sipping partner.

Creative Ways to Present

To impress guests, serve these sticky buns warm straight from the pan in a rustic cast-iron skillet, letting everyone dig in family-style. Alternatively, plate individual buns with a drizzle of extra caramel and a sprig of fresh mint for an elegant look. Cutting the buns into smaller bite-sized pieces makes them perfect for sharing at parties or potlucks.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled completely, store leftover sticky buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to maintain softness. Keeping them covered ensures the caramel glaze stays sticky and the buns don’t dry out, preserving that signature texture.

Freezing

You can freeze sticky buns either before or after baking. Wrap individual buns tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They will keep well for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently, preserving all the gooey goodness as if freshly made.

Reheating

Reheat sticky buns in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 5 to 10 minutes or microwave briefly until warm and soft. For extra shine and softness, brush a little melted butter over the tops before warming. This will make every bite taste freshly baked and indulgent.

FAQs

Can I use regular flour instead of bread flour?

Yes, all-purpose flour can be used if you don’t have bread flour, but the texture of your buns may be slightly less chewy and tender. Bread flour’s higher protein content gives that delightful structure that holds the cinnamon sugar swirls nicely.

Is it possible to make this recipe without eggs?

Eggs add richness and help with the dough’s rise and structure, but you can substitute one egg with a flax egg or applesauce if needed. Keep in mind the texture might be a bit different, but still tasty!

How do I ensure my caramel glaze doesn’t harden?

Using light corn syrup in the glaze helps prevent crystallization and keeps the caramel soft and gooey. Don’t overboil the caramel; once it thickens and bubbles, remove it from heat promptly for the best melting texture.

Can I prepare the dough the night before?

Absolutely! You can refrigerate the dough overnight after the first rise. Before shaping, let it come to room temperature and finish the recipe steps. Slow fermentation develops even richer flavor and makes the buns extra fluffy.

What kind of nuts work best in the caramel glaze?

Pecans are traditional for their buttery flavor and crunch, but walnuts or chopped almonds are great alternatives. Toasting the nuts beforehand enhances their nuttiness and texture.

Final Thoughts

This Sticky Buns with Cinnamon Sugar and Caramel Glaze Recipe is a complete crowd-pleaser that brings warmth, sweetness, and a touch of indulgence to your table. Once you try making these, they’ll quickly become a beloved staple for special mornings and celebrations. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to fill your home with the most inviting aroma and unforgettable flavor. Your taste buds will thank you!