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Delicious Caramel Pecan Cinnamon Rolls
Alyssa

Delicious Caramel Pecan Cinnamon Rolls

Treat yourself to caramel pecan cinnamon rolls—soft, sweet, and topped with gooey caramel and pecans. Perfect for breakfast or a sweet dessert.
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Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

For the Dough:
  • 1 cup warm milk 110°F / 43°C: Helps activate the yeast for a light, fluffy roll.
  • 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast: The key ingredient for leavening and creating that soft texture.
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and supports yeast activation.
  • 2 large eggs: Provide richness and help bind the dough together.
  • ⅓ cup unsalted butter melted: Contributes flavor and moisture to the dough.
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of the dough giving it structure.
  • 1 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
For the Filling:
  • ⅔ cup packed brown sugar: Deepens the flavor and adds moisture.
  • 2 ½ tbsp ground cinnamon: Essential for that warm inviting cinnamon flavor.
  • ⅓ cup unsalted butter softened: Ensures easy spreading over the dough.
For the Caramel Sauce:
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar: Provides a rich caramel flavor.
  • ½ cup unsalted butter: Adds creaminess to the sauce.
  • ¼ cup heavy cream: Creates a velvety texture in the caramel.
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor of the caramel.
  • 1 cup chopped pecans: Adds crunch and complements the caramel beautifully.

Method
 

Make the Dough:
  1. In a large bowl, combine 1 cup warm milk, 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast, and ¼ cup granulated sugar. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy. This step is crucial as it activates the yeast, allowing the dough to rise properly.
  2. Once frothy, add 2 large eggs, ⅓ cup unsalted butter (melted), and 1 tsp salt to the mixture and stir until well combined.
  3. Gradually add 4 cups all-purpose flour. Stir until a soft dough begins to form. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 6-8 minutes, until it is smooth and elastic.
  4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Prepare the Filling:
  1. In a small bowl, combine ⅔ cup packed brown sugar and 2 ½ tbsp ground cinnamon. This cinnamon-sugar mixture will create the delicious filling.
  2. After the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle measuring approximately 16x12 inches.
  3. Spread ⅓ cup unsalted butter (softened) evenly over the rolled-out dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture generously on top.
Assemble the Rolls:
  1. Starting from one long edge, carefully roll the dough tightly into a log. Ensure you keep it firm but not too tight to allow for expansion during baking.
  2. Using a sharp knife, cut the rolled dough into 12 equal pieces. Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, ensuring they are spaced out to allow for some rising.
  3. Cover the rolls and let them rise for an additional 30 minutes while you prepare the caramel sauce.
Make the Caramel Sauce:
  1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup packed brown sugar, ½ cup unsalted butter, and ¼ cup heavy cream. Stir constantly until the mixture comes to a boil, allowing it to cook for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
  2. Remove from heat and stir in 1 tsp vanilla extract. Allow the caramel to cool slightly before pouring it over the risen rolls. Ensure to sprinkle the 1 cup chopped pecans evenly over the top.
Bake the Rolls:
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
  2. Once baked, allow them to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before turning them out onto a serving plate. Pour any remaining caramel sauce over the top and sprinkle additional pecans if desired.
  3.