Caramel Pecan Cinnamon Rolls

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Caramel Pecan Cinnamon Rolls

Introduction

If you love classic cinnamon rolls, get ready to take them to the next level with this Caramel Pecan Cinnamon Rolls recipe! These rolls are everything you love about the original but with a rich, buttery caramel sauce and crunchy toasted pecans.

Made easily with a stand mixer, this recipe ensures soft, fluffy rolls with a sticky-sweet caramel topping that melts into every swirl. Perfect for holidays, brunches, or anytime you want to impress your family and friends, these cinnamon rolls will disappear in minutes!

History of Cinnamon Rolls

The origins of cinnamon rolls trace back to Sweden, where they are called “kanelbullar” and are less sweet, with cardamom added to the dough. Over time, they spread across Europe and the United States, evolving into the rich, sticky treat we know today.

The American-style cinnamon roll gained popularity in the mid-20th century, often topped with cream cheese frosting. The caramel pecan version likely originated in the Southern U.S., where pecans are abundant and caramel is a classic dessert staple. This version is inspired by sticky buns, another Southern favorite!

Ingredients

For the Dough:

  • 1 cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)
  • 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • ⅓ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt

For the Cinnamon Filling:

  • ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
  • 2 ½ tbsp ground cinnamon
  • ⅓ cup unsalted butter, softened

For the Caramel Pecan Topping:

  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • ½ cup unsalted butter
  • ¼ cup heavy cream
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup pecans, toasted and chopped

For the Cream Cheese Drizzle (Optional):

  • 4 oz (113g) cream cheese, softened
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 tbsp milk

Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

  1. Heat the milk to 110°F (45°C) and stir in the yeast and 1 tbsp sugar.
  2. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This means the yeast is active.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

  1. In a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment, combine the yeast mixture, remaining sugar, eggs, butter, salt, and 2 cups of flour. Mix on low speed until combined.
  2. Gradually add the remaining flour, ½ cup at a time, mixing after each addition. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
  3. Knead in the mixer on medium speed for 8 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 3: First Rise

  1. Lightly grease a bowl and place the dough inside. Cover with a damp towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

  1. Mix the brown sugar and cinnamon in a bowl.
  2. Spread the softened butter over the rolled-out dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly.

Step 5: Roll and Cut the Dough

  1. On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a 16×12-inch rectangle.
  2. Tightly roll the dough from the long side into a log.
  3. Cut into 12 even rolls using a sharp knife or dental floss.

Step 6: Make the Caramel Pecan Topping

  1. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Stir in the brown sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla. Cook for 2-3 minutes until smooth.
  3. Pour the caramel into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and sprinkle the pecans on top.

Step 7: Second Rise

  1. Place the sliced rolls over the caramel-pecan layer. Cover and let them rise for 30-45 minutes until puffy.

Step 8: Bake the Rolls

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown.

Step 9: Invert the Rolls

  1. Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool for 5 minutes.
  2. Carefully invert the pan onto a serving platter so the caramel pecan topping is on top.

Step 10: Make the Cream Cheese Drizzle (Optional)

  1. Beat cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until smooth.
  2. Drizzle over the warm rolls before serving.

Formation & Structure

Perfect caramel pecan cinnamon rolls have:
✔ Soft, pillowy dough that melts in your mouth
✔ Swirls of buttery cinnamon sugar inside
✔ Sticky caramel glaze that drips over the sides
✔ Crunchy toasted pecans for extra flavor

Who Loves Cinnamon Rolls?

These caramel pecan cinnamon rolls are adored by:

  • Families – Perfect for cozy weekends
  • Holiday bakers – A Christmas morning favorite
  • Sweet tooth lovers – The ultimate indulgence
  • Southern food fans – Classic sticky bun flavors with a cinnamon roll twist

Conclusion

This mixer-made caramel pecan cinnamon rolls recipe is a foolproof way to bake soft, sticky, and ultra-fluffy rolls without the hassle of kneading by hand.

Once you try these, they’ll become a family tradition—whether for holidays, brunches, or just because you deserve a sweet treat!

Now, preheat your oven and get ready to impress your loved ones with the best cinnamon rolls ever!

Would you like a version with chocolate, maple glaze, or pumpkin spice?

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