Caramel Pecan Rolls Recipe

There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of freshly baked pastries wafting through the house on a cool morning. Caramel pecan rolls are the ultimate indulgence for a cozy weekend breakfast, a festive holiday brunch, or a special gathering with friends and family. Each bite offers a delightful combination of soft, fluffy dough, rich caramel, and the nutty crunch of pecans, creating a treat that’s hard to resist.

This recipe draws inspiration from classic bakery favorites while adding a homemade touch that makes every roll feel personal. Whether you’re creating a new tradition with your family or surprising your guests with a decadent dessert, caramel pecan rolls are perfect for making any moment feel special. The layers of buttery sweetness and toasted pecans make them an irresistible centerpiece for your breakfast table or dessert spread.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

• 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/2 cup whole milk

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

• 2 large eggs

For the Caramel Sauce:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter

• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar

• 1/4 cup heavy cream

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• Pinch of salt

For the Filling:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 3/4 cup packed brown sugar

• 2 tsp ground cinnamon

• 1 cup chopped pecans

Directions

1. Prepare the Dough

The first step in creating soft, pillowy caramel pecan rolls is preparing the dough. Start by warming your milk in a small saucepan until it reaches a lukewarm temperature, around 110°F. It’s important not to overheat the milk, as temperatures that are too high can kill the yeast and prevent the dough from rising properly. Once the milk is warmed, stir in one tablespoon of sugar and sprinkle the active dry yeast evenly over the top. Allow this mixture to sit undisturbed for 5 to 10 minutes. During this time, you’ll notice the yeast begins to foam and bubble—this is a good indication that it is active and ready to help your dough rise beautifully.

While the yeast is activating, take a large mixing bowl and combine the remaining flour, sugar, and salt. These dry ingredients form the foundation of your dough, providing structure and a subtle sweetness. Once combined, add the melted butter and eggs to the bowl. The butter enriches the dough, giving it a soft, tender texture, while the eggs contribute to a slight richness and color. Finally, pour in the foamy yeast mixture.

Mix all ingredients until the dough begins to come together, then turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for 8 to 10 minutes. Proper kneading is key—it develops the gluten structure that allows the dough to rise and gives the rolls their signature soft yet slightly chewy texture. The dough should become smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky to the touch.

After kneading, transfer the dough to a greased bowl, turning it to coat all sides lightly with oil or butter. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and place it in a warm, draft-free area. Allow the dough to rise for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size. This first rise is critical for achieving soft, fluffy rolls that melt in your mouth. While waiting, you can prepare your filling and caramel sauce, making the process seamless.

2. Make the Caramel Sauce

While the dough rises, it’s the perfect time to prepare the luscious caramel sauce. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter completely, ensuring it doesn’t brown or burn. Once melted, stir in the brown sugar, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat slightly and let it cook for 2-3 minutes until it thickens into a smooth, glossy sauce. Be sure to stir constantly to prevent the sugar from sticking to the pan or burning. Once thickened, remove the caramel from heat and allow it to cool slightly. The caramel will thicken further as it cools, creating a rich, velvety layer that will soak into the bottom of your rolls during baking.

For an extra tip, if you want your caramel to have a slightly deeper flavor, you can toast the brown sugar lightly before adding the butter and cream. This adds subtle notes of molasses and enhances the overall richness of the rolls.

3. Roll Out the Dough and Add Filling

After the dough has doubled in size, gently punch it down to release the air bubbles. Then, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and roll it into a rectangle roughly 12×16 inches. The rectangle shape allows you to evenly distribute the filling and roll the dough tightly without any gaps.

Spread the softened butter evenly across the entire surface of the dough. The butter helps the brown sugar and cinnamon stick to the dough while adding richness. Next, sprinkle the brown sugar evenly, followed by the cinnamon and chopped pecans. Be generous with the pecans—they add a delightful crunch that complements the sweet, gooey layers. Make sure the filling is distributed evenly so that every roll contains the perfect balance of sugar, spice, and nuts.

4. Shape the Rolls

Once the filling is in place, it’s time to shape the rolls. Starting at the long edge of the rectangle, roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the edges to seal the dough, preventing the filling from spilling out during baking.

Next, slice the log into 12 even pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss for a cleaner cut. Using dental floss is especially helpful because it slices through the dough without squishing it, keeping the rolls neat and uniform.

Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by greasing it generously with butter. Pour half of your prepared caramel sauce into the bottom of the dish. This layer of caramel will melt and bubble as the rolls bake, creating a sticky, sweet coating that enhances the flavor and texture. Arrange the rolls on top of the caramel, leaving a little space between them to allow for expansion during the second rise.

5. Second Rise

Cover the rolls lightly with a kitchen towel and let them rise again for 30 to 45 minutes, or until they become puffy and slightly touching one another. The second rise ensures the rolls are tender, soft, and perfectly airy. This step should not be rushed—allowing the dough to rise fully is essential for achieving the bakery-style texture everyone loves.

6. Bake the Rolls

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the baking dish in the oven and bake the rolls for 25 to 30 minutes. During this time, the rolls will turn a beautiful golden brown, and the caramel will bubble enticingly around the edges, creating an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen.

Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and immediately drizzle the remaining caramel sauce over the hot rolls. The residual heat will help the caramel soak into the rolls, adding an extra layer of sweetness and creating a glossy, sticky finish. Allow the rolls to cool slightly before serving, just enough so they’re warm but not too hot to enjoy. Each bite should reveal soft, fluffy layers, a rich caramel center, and the satisfying crunch of toasted pecans.

Tips for Perfect Caramel Pecan Rolls

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs, milk, and butter are at room temperature for the dough to rise properly.

• Fresh Pecans: Toasting the pecans lightly enhances their flavor and adds an extra crunch.

• Even Slices: Use dental floss instead of a knife to slice the rolls cleanly without squishing the dough.

• Make Ahead: You can assemble the rolls the night before, refrigerate, and bake fresh in the morning for a hassle-free breakfast.

Variations to Try

1. Maple Caramel Pecan Rolls: Replace the vanilla in the caramel sauce with 1 tsp of pure maple extract for a warm, autumnal flavor.

2. Chocolate Pecan Rolls: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips along with the pecans before rolling for a decadent twist.

3. Apple Pecan Rolls: Add finely chopped apples to the filling for a fruity, fall-inspired version.

4. Vegan Version: Substitute plant-based butter and milk alternatives, and use a flax egg for the dough. The results are equally rich and delicious.

Serving Suggestions

Caramel pecan rolls are best served warm, straight from the oven, with a cup of coffee, hot chocolate, or spiced tea. They also pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert option. For holiday gatherings, consider arranging them on a tiered platter to create a visually stunning centerpiece that guests will love.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Keep leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

• Freezing: Wrap individual rolls in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in the oven before serving.

• Reheating: Warm rolls in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave for 20-30 seconds to restore the soft, gooey texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make caramel pecan rolls ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough, assemble the rolls, and refrigerate them overnight. When ready to serve, allow them to come to room temperature and rise for 20-30 minutes, then bake as directed. This makes them perfect for a stress-free holiday breakfast or brunch.

2. Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?

Absolutely. While homemade caramel adds a rich, buttery flavor, store-bought caramel sauce works in a pinch. Choose a high-quality caramel to maintain the best taste and texture.

3. How can I make the rolls extra fluffy?

The key is kneading the dough properly and allowing it to rise in a warm, draft-free place. Make sure your yeast is active, and don’t rush the rising process. A second rise after shaping also contributes to soft, pillowy rolls.

4. Can I use other nuts besides pecans?

Yes, walnuts, almonds, or even macadamia nuts can be used as a substitute. Toasting the nuts lightly enhances their flavor and gives a satisfying crunch.

Caramel Pecan Rolls Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

See also  Pumpkin Pie Bites Recipe

No reviews

• Author: Michelle Davis
• Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
• Yield: 12 rolls 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Soft, gooey, and irresistibly sweet, these caramel pecan rolls are the ultimate homemade treat for cozy mornings, festive brunches, or any special occasion. Fluffy dough layered with buttery caramel and crunchy pecans makes each bite a delight, filling your kitchen with a comforting aroma that invites everyone to the table. This recipe combines the warmth of cinnamon, the richness of caramel, and the nutty flavor of pecans, creating a treat that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or just a special weekend breakfast, these rolls are a surefire way to impress and indulge.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Dough:

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

• 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/2 cup whole milk

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

• 2 large eggs

For the Caramel Sauce:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter

• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar

• 1/4 cup heavy cream

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• Pinch of salt

For the Filling:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 3/4 cup packed brown sugar

• 2 tsp ground cinnamon

• 1 cup chopped pecans

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

• Prepare the Dough

  • Warm the milk in a small saucepan until lukewarm (around 110°F). Stir in 1 tablespoon of sugar and sprinkle yeast on top. Let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Add melted butter, eggs, and the yeast mixture.

  • Mix until the dough comes together. Knead on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

  • Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise 1–1.5 hours until doubled in size.

• Make the Caramel Sauce

  • In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar, heavy cream, vanilla, and a pinch of salt.

  • Bring to a gentle boil and cook 2–3 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and cool slightly.

• Roll Out the Dough and Add Filling

  • Punch down the risen dough and roll into a 12×16-inch rectangle.

  • Spread softened butter evenly over the dough. Sprinkle brown sugar, cinnamon, and chopped pecans on top.

• Shape the Rolls

  • Roll the dough tightly from the long side into a log. Pinch edges to seal.

  • Slice the log into 12 even pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss.

  • Pour half of the caramel sauce into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and arrange rolls on top.

• Second Rise

  • Cover rolls lightly and let rise 30–45 minutes until puffy.

• Bake the Rolls

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake rolls 25–30 minutes until golden and caramel bubbles around edges.

  • Remove from oven and drizzle remaining caramel sauce on top. Let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

• Use room temperature ingredients for best dough consistency.

• Toast pecans lightly to enhance flavor.

• Make ahead by preparing rolls the night before and refrigerating; bake fresh in the morning.

• Dental floss can be used to slice rolls neatly without squishing the dough.

• Adjust sugar levels if you prefer a less sweet treat.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes

Michelle Davis