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
For the Dough:
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3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
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1/4 cup granulated sugar
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1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
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1/2 tsp salt
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1/2 cup whole milk
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1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
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2 large eggs
For the Caramel Sauce:
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1/2 cup unsalted butter
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1/2 cup packed brown sugar
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1/4 cup heavy cream
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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Pinch of salt
For the Filling:
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1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
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3/4 cup packed brown sugar
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2 tsp ground cinnamon
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1 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
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Prepare the Dough
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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.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Add melted butter, eggs, and the yeast mixture.
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Mix until the dough comes together. Knead on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
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Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise 1–1.5 hours until doubled in size.
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Make the Caramel Sauce
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In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar, heavy cream, vanilla, and a pinch of salt.
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Bring to a gentle boil and cook 2–3 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and cool slightly.
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Roll Out the Dough and Add Filling
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Punch down the risen dough and roll into a 12×16-inch rectangle.
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Spread softened butter evenly over the dough. Sprinkle brown sugar, cinnamon, and chopped pecans on top.
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Shape the Rolls
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Roll the dough tightly from the long side into a log. Pinch edges to seal.
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Slice the log into 12 even pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss.
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Pour half of the caramel sauce into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and arrange rolls on top.
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Second Rise
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Cover rolls lightly and let rise 30–45 minutes until puffy.
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Bake the Rolls
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake rolls 25–30 minutes until golden and caramel bubbles around edges.
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Remove from oven and drizzle remaining caramel sauce on top. Let cool slightly before serving.
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Notes
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Use room temperature ingredients for best dough consistency.
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Toast pecans lightly to enhance flavor.
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Make ahead by preparing rolls the night before and refrigerating; bake fresh in the morning.
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Dental floss can be used to slice rolls neatly without squishing the dough.
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Adjust sugar levels if you prefer a less sweet treat.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes