Pear & Pecan Sticky Buns

Sticky Sweet Pear & Pecan Buns are a delightful treat that perfectly combines sweet, juicy pears with the satisfying crunch of pecans, all enveloped in soft, sticky dough. This recipe not only tantalizes the taste buds but also offers a comforting aroma that fills your kitchen as the buns bake to golden perfection. Whether you’re looking for a special breakfast option, a standout brunch dish, or a sweet dessert to impress guests, these buns deliver on all fronts.

Discover the joy of baking with Sticky Sweet Pear & Pecan Buns, a perfect blend of juicy pears, crunchy pecans, and soft, sticky dough. Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these buns are not only delicious but also fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Enjoy them warm with a sweet glaze or alongside a scoop of ice cream. Learn the step-by-step process to create this delightful treat that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy a baking adventure today!

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Ingredients

For the dough:

3 ½ cups all-purpose flour

¼ cup granulated sugar

1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

½ cup whole milk, warmed to around 110°F (43°C)

¼ cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled

2 large eggs, at room temperature

For the filling:

½ cup brown sugar, packed firmly

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

½ cup pecans, finely chopped

2 medium pears, peeled and diced into small cubes

3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

For the sticky glaze:

½ cup brown sugar, packed

¼ cup unsalted butter

2 tablespoons water

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Pinch of salt

Instructions

Prepare the dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, active dry yeast, salt, and ground cinnamon until well blended. In a separate bowl, whisk together the warmed milk, melted butter, and eggs until combined. Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.

Knead the dough: Add the remaining flour, ½ cup at a time, mixing until a soft and slightly tacky dough forms. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.

First rise: Lightly grease a large bowl and place the dough inside, turning it to coat the surface. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and place it in a warm environment for about 1 hour, or until the dough has doubled in size.

Prepare the filling: In a medium bowl, combine the packed brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and chopped pecans. Mix well and set aside for later use.

Roll out the dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to expel any trapped air. On a floured surface, roll the dough into a rectangular shape, approximately 16x12 inches in size.

Spread filling: Evenly spread the softened butter over the rolled-out dough, leaving a ½ inch border around the edges. Sprinkle the brown sugar and pecan mixture evenly over the butter layer, followed by the diced pears.

Shape the buns: Starting from one long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log shape. Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 12 equal pieces. Arrange the pieces, cut-side up, in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.

Second rise: Cover the dish with a kitchen towel and allow the buns to rise in a warm place for another 30-45 minutes, until they have puffed up significantly.

Prepare sticky glaze: In a small saucepan, combine the packed brown sugar, unsalted butter, water, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture is smooth and starts to bubble. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Bake the buns: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the prepared sticky glaze evenly over the risen buns in the baking dish. Bake the buns for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.

Cool and serve: Remove the baking dish from the oven, and allow the sticky buns to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. To serve, carefully invert the buns onto a serving plate so the sticky glaze is on top. Enjoy the gooey, sweet goodness while they’re still warm!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 30 minutes | 2 hours | 12 servings

Presentation Tips: For an elegant touch, serve the buns on a beautiful platter and garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a handful of toasted pecans. Drizzle extra sticky glaze over the top for visual appeal!