Sticky buns, also known as caramel rolls or pecan rolls, are a sweet pastry made with a yeast dough that is rolled up with a sticky filling and baked. The dough is rolled out flat, spread with a layer of butter, then sprinkled with brown sugar, cinnamon, and chopped nuts. The dough is then tightly rolled up from the long side, cut into individual buns, placed in a pan cut sides up, allowed to rise, and baked. During baking, the sugar and butter melt together to form a sweet, sticky caramel glaze over the buns. Sticky buns are a classic American breakfast or brunch pastry that is loved for its soft, pillowy interior and sweet, gooey topping. But what exactly are the ingredients that go into making these delicious treats? Let’s take a closer look at the components that make up sticky bun dough and filling.
The Dough
The dough for sticky buns starts out with basic bread or roll dough ingredients:
Flour
The flour provides structure and substance to the dough. All-purpose flour is most commonly used as it contains enough gluten to give the dough strength and elasticity without making it tough. Bread flour with a higher protein content can also be used for a chewier texture. About 3-4 cups of flour are typical for a batch of sticky bun dough.
Yeast
Active dry yeast or instant yeast are used to leaven the dough and make it rise. The yeast feeds on the sugars in the dough and produces carbon dioxide gas, which causes the dough to expand in size. Around 1 packet or 2 1/4 teaspoons of yeast is normal for sticky bun dough. The yeast needs to be dissolved and activated in warm liquid before being mixed into the flour.
Salt
A small amount of salt, about 1 teaspoon, helps control the fermentation of the yeast while also enhancing the dough’s flavor.
Sugar
A teaspoon or two of granulated sugar feeds the yeast and contributes sweetness to the dough. Brown sugar can also be used.
Milk
Warm milk adds flavor, moisture, and food for the yeast. Any type of milk may be used, including whole milk, low-fat milk, or non-dairy milk like almond or soy milk. About 1/2 cup is typical.
Water
Warm water also helps activate the yeast and bring the dough together. The amount of water needed can vary based on the humidity of the environment, but is generally around 1/4 to 1/2 cup.
Egg
An egg adds richness, color, and binding power to the dough. It helps make the interior soft and tender. One egg is commonly used.
Butter
A couple tablespoons of softened butter also contribute moisture and flavor to the dough.
The Filling
In addition to the dough, sticky buns require a sweet filling for the inside. This is what oozes out and makes the tops so sticky and delicious. Common filling ingredients include:
Butter
Several tablespoons of melted butter are brushed over the rolled out dough before the filling is added. This ensures the filling adheres and helps create a crunchy, caramelized topping as it bakes.
Brown Sugar
Brown sugar is the key player in sticky bun filling. About 1/2 to 1 cup of packed brown sugar is sprinkled over the buttered dough. Dark brown sugar provides richer molasses flavor.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon complements the brown sugar beautifully, adding warmth and spice. 1-2 teaspoons are standard.
Pecans or Walnuts
Chopped toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts add crunch and flavor to the filling. About 1/2 cup is typical.
Raisins or Currants
Small dried fruits like raisins, currants, or dried cranberries can also be added to the filling mix for bursts of sweetness. 1/4 to 1/2 cup is normal.
Vanilla
A teaspoon of vanilla extract boosts the flavor of the filling.
Spices
Other spices like ginger, allspice, nutmeg, or cardamom may also be used to customize the filling.
The Caramel Glaze
While the filling ingredients are what give sticky buns their name, a sweet glaze is also often drizzled over the baked buns for extra flavor and moisture. The glaze is made by whisking together:
Butter
2-3 tablespoons of melted butter
Brown Sugar
1/4 cup packed brown sugar
Milk or Cream
2-3 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
Vanilla
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
Salt
Pinch of salt
The glaze ingredients are whisked together then poured over the warm baked buns where it sets up into a shiny, sticky sauce.
The Overall Process
Now that we’ve looked at the components, let’s summarize the overall process for making sticky buns:
1. Make the dough by mixing together the flour, yeast, salt, sugar, milk, water, egg, and butter until a soft, smooth dough forms. Knead the dough until elastic.
2. Let the dough rise for about an hour until puffy. Punch it down.
3. On a floured surface, roll the dough into a rectangle. Brush with melted butter.
4. Mix together the brown sugar, cinnamon, nuts, and any other filling ingredients then sprinkle evenly over the buttered dough.
5. Roll the dough up from the long side into a tight log and pinch the seam closed.
6. Slice the log into rounds about 1-2 inches wide.
7. Layer the rounds cut side up in a baking pan. Cover and let rise for 30 minutes until puffy.
8. Bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
9. Whisk together the glaze ingredients. Drizzle over the hot buns straight from the oven.
The result is a pan of hot, gooey, tender, cinnamon-y sticky buns that are impossible to resist! Playing with the filling and dough ingredients allows for endless sticky bun variations. Now that you know what goes into them, you can create your own signature version.
Nutrition Information
While undeniably delicious, sticky buns are a high-calorie indulgence. Here is the nutrition information for a typical sticky bun:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 |
| Total Fat | 16g |
| Saturated Fat | 8g |
| Trans Fat | 0g |
| Cholesterol | 55mg |
| Sodium | 340mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 63g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Sugars | 30g |
| Protein | 5g |
As you can see, a single sticky bun contains over 400 calories, 16 grams of fat, and 63 grams of carbs. The high sugar content primarily comes from the filling and glaze. Sticky buns make a great occasional treat, but moderation is key due to their high calorie count.
Conclusion
Sticky buns are a cherished breakfast treat made from a straightforward yet delicious combination of ingredients. The yeast dough provides a soft, fluffy base while the brown sugar filling and buttery glaze on top deliver sweet sticky goodness with every bite. While they do pack a caloric punch, enjoying sticky buns in moderation can be part of an overall balanced diet. Now that you know what goes into making them, get creative with designing your own signature sticky bun recipe! Just be prepared for ooey, gooey deliciousness.