Gooey Pecan Sticky Buns Recipe

Yeast: 

• Place the butter in a 4-cup measuring cup and zap in the microwave until it melts. Measure the sugar out in a bowl.
• Add the milk and 2 teaspoons of sugar from the previously measured amount to the melted butter.
• Heat in the microwave for 30-40 seconds or until the milk reaches 105-110ºF. Sprinkle yeast over the top, stir to combine, let sit 15 minutes.

Dough: 

• Meanwhile, in the bowl of your electric mixer fitted with the dough-hook attachment, add what’s remaining of the of sugar, 3 cups of flour, and kosher salt.
• Turn the mixer on briefly to allow the ingredients to combine. With the mixer on low, slowly pour in the activated yeast mixture; add the egg.
• When combined, increase the speed to medium. Run the mixer for 6-8 minutes or until the dough comes together.
• While the dough is mixing, drizzle a large bowl with a little oil and set aside. If the dough seems wet after 4 minutes of mixing, slowly add 1 tablespoon of flour at a time until it comes together (you can do this up to 4 times if necessary).
• Shape the dough into a ball using your hands and place it in the prepared bowl. Cover with plastic wrap, let rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
• You can also refrigerate the dough once it rises if you plan on using this the next day, see notes for directions.

Topping: 

• When ready to bake, place the pecans in an 8×8 square baking dish. Place the butter, corn syrup, and sugar to a 2-cup measuring cup and heat it in the microwave until the butter melts. Stir to combine, sprinkle with salt. Pour the prepared caramel into the baking dish, set aside.

Filling:

• Flour a flat surface and turn the dough out. Roll the dough out into a 10×15 inch piece. Spread the softened butter on top.
• In a small bowl, combine the sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle evenly over the dough, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the sides. Start rolling the dough gently but firmly. You don’t want to wrap the roll too tight. Pinch the seams to contain the filling.
• Divide the dough into 9 equal pieces using a serrated knife or dental floss. Place the rolls in the prepared baking dish.
• Cover with plastic wrap and let the dough rise for another 30-45 minutes.

Bake:

• Position a rack in the center of the oven and preheat the oven to 375ºF Bake the rolls for 23-27 minutes or until baked all the way through. You may need to cover the rolls halfway through, so keep an eye on them. Carefully place a serving platter on top of the baking dish and flip when you get them out of the oven. Serve warm.