Cinnamon Sticky Buns are a decadent and indulgent treat that combines the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon and brown sugar with a gooey, sticky caramel glaze. These buns are soft, fluffy, and loaded with a rich cinnamon-sugar filling, all topped with a luscious layer of sticky sweetness that makes them impossible to resist. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, Cinnamon Sticky Buns are a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or reheated for a quick treat, these buns are the ultimate comfort food, bringing warmth and coziness to any occasion.
Ingredients:
- For the Dough:
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- For the Cinnamon Filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- For the Sticky Glaze:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup honey or corn syrup
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of the flour, granulated sugar, yeast, and salt.
- In a small saucepan, heat the milk, water, and butter over medium heat until warm (but not hot), and the butter is melted.
- Add the warm milk mixture to the flour mixture and beat with an electric mixer until smooth.
- Add the egg and continue beating until fully incorporated.
- Gradually add the remaining flour, 1/4 cup at a time, until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl and is no longer sticky.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Make the Sticky Glaze:
- While the dough is rising, prepare the sticky glaze. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the brown sugar, honey or corn syrup, and heavy cream, and bring to a simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Pour the sticky glaze into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle with chopped pecans or walnuts if using.
- Prepare the Cinnamon Filling:
- In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon, mixing until well combined.
- Assemble the Buns:
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it into a 12×18-inch rectangle.
- Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Starting from the long side, tightly roll up the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal.
- Cut the log into 12 even slices and place them cut-side down into the prepared baking dish with the sticky glaze.
- Final Rise and Bake:
- Cover the baking dish with a towel and let the buns rise for an additional 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the buns for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve:
- Allow the buns to cool in the baking dish for 5 minutes before inverting them onto a serving platter to reveal the sticky glaze on top.
- Serve warm and enjoy the gooey, cinnamon goodness.
Enjoy your Cinnamon Sticky Buns, a deliciously sweet and sticky treat that’s perfect for any time you need a little extra comfort and warmth!
