Easy Sticky Buns

Few things compare to the aroma of freshly baked sticky buns wafting through the kitchen. This Easy Sticky Buns recipe is the perfect way to bring a bakery-level treat right into your own home without complicated steps or special equipment. Made with a soft, slightly sweet dough and filled with cinnamon-sugar goodness, these buns are rolled, sliced, and baked over a gooey, buttery topping that caramelizes in the oven. When flipped out of the pan, the buns are coated in a sticky, nutty glaze that makes every bite irresistibly rich and comforting.

The best part? These sticky buns use instant yeast, so the rising time is quick and beginner-friendly. Whether you’re baking for a special brunch, holiday breakfast, or just want to make a weekend feel extra cozy, this recipe delivers soft, fluffy rolls with a decadent topping that soaks into every swirl. You can include pecans for added crunch or leave them out if you prefer a smoother caramel finish. Either way, this recipe is a delicious combination of textures and flavors that feel like a warm hug on a plate. Serve them warm for a gooey treat that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Perfect for Beginners – Uses instant yeast and simple techniques, ideal for new bakers.
2. Soft, Fluffy Dough – The dough is light and pillowy with just the right amount of sweetness.
3. Decadent Caramel Topping – A rich, buttery glaze forms in the oven for that classic sticky finish.
4. Customizable – Add pecans, raisins, or leave them plain to suit your taste.
5. Impressive Yet Easy – Looks like a bakery treat but comes together easily at home.

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Ingredients

Dough

• Milk
• Granulated sugar
• Butter
• Instant yeast
• Warm water
• All-purpose flour
• Salt

Filling

• Brown sugar
• Granulated sugar
• Cinnamon
• Butter

Topping

• Butter
• Brown sugar
• Granulated sugar
• Dark corn syrup
• Salt
• Water
• Coarsely chopped pecans (optional)

Variations

Nut-Free Version

Skip the pecans for a smooth, gooey topping that still delivers rich caramel flavor.

Maple Sticky Buns

Substitute dark corn syrup with pure maple syrup for a different depth of sweetness.

Cream Cheese Frosting

Drizzle cream cheese glaze over the top after baking instead of the sticky glaze for a cinnamon roll-style twist.

Raisin Swirl

Add raisins or chopped dried fruit to the filling for a fruity contrast.

Overnight Option

Prepare the buns the night before, refrigerate after assembling, and bake fresh in the morning.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

Warm the milk in a small saucepan or microwave until just hot. Stir in the butter and sugar until melted. Let cool slightly.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and instant yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.

Step 3

Add the milk mixture, flour, and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms, then knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 4

Cover the dough and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 5

While the dough rises, prepare the topping. In a saucepan, melt butter and stir in brown sugar, granulated sugar, corn syrup, salt, and water. Pour into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle with pecans if using.

Step 6

In a separate bowl, mix the filling ingredients: brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon.

Step 7

Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a large rectangle on a floured surface. Spread softened butter over the surface and sprinkle evenly with the cinnamon-sugar filling.

Step 8

Roll the dough up tightly from the long edge into a log. Slice into 12 even rolls.

Step 9

Place the rolls cut-side down on top of the prepared caramel topping in the baking dish.

Step 10

Cover and let rise for another 30–45 minutes until puffy.

Step 11

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the buns for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 12

Let the buns rest for 5 minutes, then carefully invert the pan onto a serving tray to release the sticky topping over the rolls.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use room temperature ingredients for best results with yeast.
• Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic—this helps ensure fluffiness.
• Don’t overbake—the buns should be golden but still soft.
• Invert the pan while the buns are still warm to release the topping easily.
• Use dental floss or a serrated knife to slice even rolls without squishing.

How to Serve

Serve warm for the ultimate gooey experience. These sticky buns pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea and make a delicious centerpiece for brunch, holiday mornings, or weekend treats. Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a gourmet finish, or drizzle with extra glaze for added indulgence.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store sticky buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Freezing

Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Warm in the microwave for 15–20 seconds or in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10–15 minutes until heated through and gooey again.

FAQs

1. Can I make these sticky buns the night before?

Yes, assemble the rolls and cover tightly. Refrigerate overnight, then let come to room temperature before baking.

2. What’s the best way to roll the dough evenly?

Use a rolling pin and a lightly floured surface. Try to keep the dough in a rectangular shape for even rolling.

3. Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?

Yes, but you’ll need to proof it in the warm water for about 10 minutes before adding the other ingredients.

4. Why did my buns turn out dry?

They may have been overbaked. Check for doneness at the 25-minute mark.

5. Can I make these without corn syrup?

You can substitute with maple syrup or honey, though the texture and flavor will vary slightly.

6. Do I have to use pecans?

No, they’re optional. You can also use walnuts or leave out the nuts altogether.

7. Can I use a stand mixer for the dough?

Absolutely. Use the dough hook and mix on medium speed until smooth and elastic.

8. How do I know when the dough has risen enough?

It should double in size and feel puffy when gently pressed.

9. What if my filling leaks out during baking?

Some leakage is normal. Just be sure the rolls are rolled tightly and placed close together in the pan.

10. Can I add icing or glaze on top?

Yes, but the sticky caramel topping is usually sweet enough. A light drizzle of cream cheese glaze can be added for extra indulgence.

Conclusion

Easy Sticky Buns are the ultimate homemade indulgence—rich, fluffy rolls swirled with cinnamon sugar and topped with a luscious, buttery caramel glaze. They’re surprisingly simple to make, especially with instant yeast and basic ingredients you likely already have on hand. Whether for a special occasion or a cozy weekend bake, these buns deliver the perfect combination of texture and flavor in every sticky, satisfying bite. Make them once, and they’ll quickly become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.

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