There’s something magical about the combination of warm, buttery rolls and a gooey, caramelized pecan topping. Easy Pecan Sticky Buns are the ultimate indulgence, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. With this simple recipe, you’ll have a batch of sticky buns ready to impress in no time—no need for hours of dough rising or complicated techniques.
If you’ve been searching for a quick way to create bakery-style sticky buns at home, you’re in the right place.
Why You’ll Love Easy Pecan Sticky Buns
Sticky buns are a timeless favorite, loved for their rich flavors and melt-in-your-mouth texture. This recipe makes the process simple by using Hawaiian rolls, cutting down on prep time without sacrificing taste. The combination of caramelized brown sugar, honey, and toasted pecans creates a topping so good, you’ll find yourself licking the plate!
Ingredients for Easy Pecan Sticky Buns
Here’s everything you’ll need to make a batch of these irresistible buns:
Ingredient | Quantity |
Unsalted butter | ½ cup |
Brown sugar | ½ cup |
Chopped pecans | 1 cup |
Honey | 2 ½ tablespoons |
Salt | 1 pinch |
Vanilla bean paste | 1 teaspoon |
Heavy whipping cream | 2 tablespoons |
Hawaiian rolls (12-count) | 1 package |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat Your Oven and Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch cake pan with parchment paper to make it easy to flip the buns out after baking.
2. Make the Pecan Topping
Combine the unsalted butter, brown sugar, honey, and salt in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously until the sugar dissolves and the mixture starts to bubble slightly, which should take about 3 to 5 minutes.
3. Add the Flavorings and Pecans
Turn off the heat and stir in the vanilla bean paste, heavy whipping cream, and chopped pecans. Mix until the pecans are fully coated in the rich caramel sauce. Let the topping cool slightly.
4. Assemble the Sticky Buns
Pour the pecan topping into the prepared cake pan, spreading it into an even layer. Arrange the Hawaiian rolls on top of the pecan mixture, placing them top side down.
5. Bake the Sticky Buns
Bake the sticky buns in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling and the rolls are slightly browned.
6. Flip and Serve
Let the sticky buns cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Carefully flip the pan onto a cutting board or serving plate to release the buns, allowing the gooey pecan topping to drizzle over them. Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Easy Pecan Sticky Buns
- Use Fresh Rolls: Hawaiian rolls are soft and sweet, making them ideal for this recipe. Ensure they’re fresh for the best results.
- Toast the Pecans: For an extra layer of flavor, toast the chopped pecans in a dry skillet before adding them to the topping.
- Don’t Overcook the Topping: Keep a close eye on the caramel mixture to avoid burning it. The sugar should just dissolve and bubble lightly.
- Serve Warm: These sticky buns are best enjoyed warm, when the caramel topping is gooey and the rolls are soft.
Nutritional Information
Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional values per serving (based on 12 servings):
Nutrient | Amount |
Calories | 250 |
Protein | 3g |
Carbohydrates | 27g |
Fat | 15g |
Saturated Fat | 8g |
Sodium | 150mg |
Fiber | 1g |
Sugar | 15g |
These sticky buns are a decadent treat, perfect for special occasions or whenever you’re craving something sweet.
Why Easy Pecan Sticky Buns Are Perfect for Any Occasion
This versatile recipe works for a variety of occasions:
- Holiday Mornings: A festive addition to your breakfast or brunch spread.
- Casual Gatherings: Serve these buns as a dessert or snack at your next get-together.
- Family Treats: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet, nutty flavor.
- Quick Desserts: With minimal prep and no yeast required, these sticky buns are perfect for last-minute cravings.
Creative Variations to Try
1. Chocolate Pecan Sticky Buns
Add a handful of chocolate chips to the pecan topping for a gooey, chocolaty twist.
2. Cinnamon Apple Sticky Buns
Mix diced apples and a dash of cinnamon into the topping for a fall-inspired flavor.
3. Bourbon Pecan Sticky Buns
Replace the vanilla bean paste with a splash of bourbon for a sophisticated kick.
4. Vegan Sticky Buns
Use plant-based butter and coconut cream instead of dairy to make this recipe vegan-friendly.
5. Coconut Pecan Sticky Buns
Sprinkle shredded coconut over the pecan topping for a tropical touch.
FAQs About Easy Pecan Sticky Buns
1. Can I make these sticky buns ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the pecan topping and assemble the buns in the pan. Cover and refrigerate overnight, then bake them fresh in the morning.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover sticky buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.
3. Can I freeze sticky buns?
Absolutely. Wrap the buns tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before enjoying.
4. What can I use instead of Hawaiian rolls?
You can substitute with brioche rolls, dinner rolls, or even crescent roll dough for a different texture.
5. How do I prevent the topping from sticking to the pan?
Using parchment paper to line the pan makes flipping the buns easier and ensures the caramel topping doesn’t stick.
6. Can I use maple syrup instead of honey?
Yes! Maple syrup works wonderfully in place of honey, adding a deeper, richer flavor.
Final Thoughts: Sweet, Sticky, and Irresistible
Easy Pecan Sticky Buns are the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth without spending hours in the kitchen. With their buttery rolls, caramelized pecans, and irresistible flavor, they’re sure to become a family favorite.
So why wait? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and treat yourself to a batch of homemade sticky buns that will rival any bakery creation. One bite, and you’ll see why this recipe is a must-have for every home baker.
PrintEasy Pecan Sticky Buns: A Delicious Treat for Any Occasion
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
Description
Easy Pecan Sticky Buns combine the soft sweetness of Hawaiian rolls with a gooey caramel-pecan topping. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these sticky buns are quick to prepare and guaranteed to impress. No rising dough or complicated steps—just pure indulgence in every bite.
Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 2 ½ tablespoons honey
- 1 pinch salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste
- 2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream
- 1 package Hawaiian rolls (12-count)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch cake pan with parchment paper for easy removal. - Make the Pecan Topping
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter, brown sugar, honey, and salt. Stir constantly until the sugar dissolves and the mixture starts to bubble, about 3–5 minutes. - Add Flavorings and Pecans
Turn off the heat and stir in the vanilla bean paste, heavy whipping cream, and chopped pecans. Mix well until the pecans are fully coated in the caramel sauce. - Assemble the Buns
Pour the pecan mixture into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly. Arrange the Hawaiian rolls on top of the pecan mixture, placing them top side down. - Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling and the rolls are slightly golden brown. - Flip and Serve
Let the sticky buns cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Carefully invert the pan onto a cutting board or serving plate to release the buns, letting the caramel-pecan topping drizzle over them. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Customize the Nuts: Use walnuts, almonds, or a mix of nuts instead of pecans.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the buns the night before and refrigerate. Bake fresh in the morning for a no-fuss breakfast.
- Reheating Tip: Warm leftover buns in the microwave for 15–20 seconds or in a low oven until gooey and soft.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American