Sticky Buns

Sticky Buns are a classic, indulgent pastry known for their soft, buttery dough and irresistible caramelized topping made with brown sugar, butter, and often nuts like pecans. Unlike cinnamon rolls, which are frosted, sticky buns are baked upside-down in a gooey caramel sauce that becomes their topping once flipped. This creates a glossy, sticky, moist finish that makes every bite rich and satisfying.

Sticky buns are a beloved treat in American baking, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon sweet craving. Their aroma fills your home with warmth, making them ideal for special occasions, holidays, or comforting weekends.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it strikes the perfect balance between soft, tender dough and a deeply flavorful caramel topping. The dough is enriched, fluffy, and easy to work with, while the brown sugar-butter glaze caramelizes beautifully during baking.

Each bun pulls apart effortlessly and is coated in a glossy sticky topping that melts in your mouth. The recipe also offers versatility—whether you prefer pecans, walnuts, or no nuts at all, the buns still come out heavenly.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

Sticky buns are a must-try because they offer:

• A unique baking experience with the signature upside-down caramel method.
• A decadent treat that feels special without requiring expert baking skills.
• A warm, comforting flavor that pleases both kids and adults.
• A beautiful presentation, especially when flipped fresh from the oven.
• A perfect dessert or breakfast option that brings people together.

Their soft interior combined with caramelized topping makes them unforgettable and highly addictive.

Preparation Time, Cooking Time, Servings, Calories, Course, and Cuisine

Preparation Time: 30 minutes (plus 1.5–2 hours rise time)
Cooking Time: 30–32 minutes
Total Time: 2.5–3 hours
Servings: 12 sticky buns
Calories: Approximately 380–420 per bun
Course: Breakfast, Brunch, Dessert
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

For the Dough

4 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup warm whole milk
1 packet (2¼ tsp) active dry yeast
1⁄3 cup granulated sugar
1⁄3 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 tsp salt

For the Caramel Topping

1 cup brown sugar, packed
1⁄2 cup unsalted butter
1⁄4 cup honey or maple syrup
1 cup pecans or walnuts, chopped (optional)

For the Filling

1 cup brown sugar
2 tbsp ground cinnamon
1⁄3 cup unsalted butter, softened

Cooking Directions Overview

Make dough, allow to rise, prepare caramel topping, pour into baking dish, roll dough with cinnamon filling, slice into buns, arrange over caramel, rise again, bake, and flip to reveal the sticky, glossy topping.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Warm the milk to a lukewarm temperature. Stir in yeast and a tablespoon of sugar. Allow to sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine yeast mixture, eggs, softened butter, remaining sugar, and salt.
Gradually incorporate flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Knead for 7–8 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 3: First Rise

Place dough in a greased bowl, cover and let rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours or until doubled.

Step 4: Prepare Caramel Topping

Melt butter, brown sugar, and honey (or maple syrup) in a saucepan.
Stir until smooth and pour into a greased baking dish.
Sprinkle pecans or walnuts (if using) evenly over the caramel.

Step 5: Prepare the Filling

Mix brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.
Keep softened butter ready.

Step 6: Roll Out the Dough

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

Step 7: Add Filling

Spread softened butter evenly across the dough.
Sprinkle cinnamon-sugar mixture generously over the surface.

Step 8: Roll and Slice

Roll dough tightly from the long edge into a log.
Cut into 12 equal slices using a sharp knife or dental floss.

Step 9: Arrange in Pan

Place the slices cut-side up over the caramel layer in the baking dish.

Step 10: Second Rise

Cover the pan and let rise again for 30–45 minutes until puffy.

Step 11: Bake

Bake at 350°F (180°C) for 30–32 minutes until golden brown and bubbling.

Step 12: Flip and Serve

Let buns rest for 5 minutes.
Place a large platter over the baking dish and carefully invert to release the sticky caramel topping.
Serve warm.

How to Serve Sticky Buns

Serve immediately while warm and gooey.
Pair with hot coffee, chai, milk, or fresh fruit.
These buns are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated for a warm, melty experience.

Recipe Tips

Use room-temperature butter for easy spreading.
The caramel topping should be poured while warm so it spreads evenly.
Do not overbake; sticky buns should remain soft and slightly gooey.
For extra flavor, lightly toast nuts before adding.
If dough feels too sticky, add a small amount of flour while kneading, but keep it soft.

Recipe Variations

Maple Pecan Sticky Buns

Replace honey with pure maple syrup and use toasted pecans in the topping.

Raisin Cinnamon Sticky Buns

Add ½ cup raisins to the filling for a sweet, chewy texture.

Salted Caramel Sticky Buns

Add a light sprinkle of sea salt on top of the buns after flipping.

Chocolate Sticky Buns

Add mini chocolate chips in the filling for a rich twist.

No-Nut Sticky Buns

Simply skip the nuts; they will still be deliciously sticky and sweet.

Freezing and Storage

Storage

Room Temperature: Up to 2 days in an airtight container.
Refrigerator: Up to 5 days. Reheat before serving.

Freezing Before Baking

Shape buns but do not let them rise.
Freeze individually on a tray, then store in a freezer bag.
Thaw overnight, allow to rise, then bake.

Freezing After Baking

Freeze baked buns for up to 2–3 months.
Reheat in oven or microwave until warm and sticky.

Special Equipment Needed

Large mixing bowl
Rolling pin
9×13-inch baking dish
Saucepan for caramel
Dough scraper (optional)
Stand mixer with dough hook (optional)
Sharp knife or dental floss

Conclusion

Sticky Buns are the ultimate comfort bake, combining soft, fluffy dough with a rich caramelized topping that makes every bite indulgent. This recipe provides step-by-step clarity so you can easily create bakery-style sticky buns at home. Whether you enjoy them for brunch, dessert, or a special celebration, these sticky buns bring warmth, sweetness, and unforgettable flavor. With flexible variations and excellent make-ahead options, this recipe is one you will want to return to again and again.

If you want, I can also prepare a printable recipe card, a simplified version, or a healthier alternative.