Caramel Pecan Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with Caramel Pecan Cinnamon Rolls, a heavenly combination of soft, fluffy dough, rich caramel sauce, and crunchy pecans. This homemade recipe is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or treating your family to a special morning, these rolls will steal the show.

Made with simple ingredients like warm milk, butter, cinnamon, and sugar, these rolls are layered with flavors that melt in your mouth. The gooey caramel topping and pecan crunch create a bakery-quality experience right at home. Learn how to make these easy cinnamon rolls step-by-step, and enjoy the compliments that follow!

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 2 packets (1/4 oz each) active dry yeast
• 2 cups warm milk
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 5 tbsp melted butter
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 5 cups all-purpose flour

For the Filling:

• 2 tbsp melted butter
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

For the Caramel Sauce:

• 1 cup cubed butter
• 2 cups packed brown sugar
• 1/4 cup corn syrup
• 1/2 to 3/4 cup chopped pecans

---

Instructions

Prepare the Dough:

1. In the bowl of a stand mixer, dissolve the yeast in warm milk and let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. Add eggs, melted butter, sugar, salt, and flour to the bowl. Using the dough hook attachment, knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth. Alternatively, knead by hand for the same amount of time.
3. Grease the mixing bowl with non-stick spray, place the dough inside, and cover with a damp towel. Let the dough rise for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

Make the Caramel Sauce:
4. While the dough rises, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
5. Stir in brown sugar, corn syrup, and chopped pecans. Let the mixture simmer for 2 minutes.
6. Pour the caramel sauce into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.

Shape the Rolls:
7. Sprinkle flour onto a clean work surface. Punch down the risen dough and roll it into a 17×5-inch rectangle.
8. Brush the dough with melted butter, leaving a 1-inch border along the edges.
9. Mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl, then sprinkle evenly over the buttered dough.
10. Starting from the long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log and pinch the seam to seal. Trim about 1 inch off each end for evenness.
11. Slice the log into 15 equal pieces and arrange them cut-side-down on top of the caramel sauce in the prepared dish. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes.

Bake:
12. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 30–35 minutes or until golden brown on top.
13. Allow the rolls to cool for 5–10 minutes, then carefully invert the dish onto a large serving tray to release the caramel topping.

---

Tips

• Active Yeast: Ensure your milk is warm (around 110°F) to activate the yeast without killing it.
• Caramel Sauce: For a thicker caramel layer, increase the butter or brown sugar slightly.
• Cutting Rolls: Use unflavored dental floss for cleaner cuts.

Variations and Substitutions

• Nuts: Substitute walnuts for pecans or omit them altogether.
• Filling: Add raisins or chocolate chips for a fun twist.
• Dough: Swap all-purpose flour with bread flour for an even softer texture.

FAQs

Can I Make These Rolls Ahead of Time?
Yes! Assemble the rolls and let them rise in the refrigerator overnight. Bring to room temperature before baking.

How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with a drizzle of cream cheese glaze.
• Pair with a cup of freshly brewed coffee for a perfect morning treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Caramel Sauce: The gooey pecan caramel topping elevates these rolls to bakery-quality perfection.
• Soft and Fluffy Dough: Each bite is pillowy soft, with just the right amount of sweetness.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these cinnamon rolls are guaranteed to impress.