The Best Caramel Pecan Cinnamon Rolls

Caramel Pecan Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Make the Dough [00:55]

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup warm milk, 1/3 cup melted unsalted butter, 2 large eggs, 1/2 cup white granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon instant yeast, 1 teaspoon sea salt, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Whisk thoroughly.
2. Gradually add 4 cups of all-purpose flour to the mixture. Whisk until a smooth batter forms, then switch to a spatula as the batter thickens into a dough.
3. Turn the dough onto a floured work surface and knead it for 4-6 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough back into the mixing bowl and let it rest for 10-15 minutes.

Step 2: Shape the Rolls [02:57]

1. Flour a work surface and the rolling pin. Shape the dough into a rectangle (approximately 20 by 15 inches).
2. Spread 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter across the dough.
3. Combine 1 cup brown sugar and 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon and sprinkle evenly over the buttered dough.
4. Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of finely diced pecans over the sugar-cinnamon layer.
5. Roll the dough up tightly from the long side to create a log.
6. Use a sharp knife to score and then divide the log into 12 even rolls.
7. Transfer the rolls into a parchment-lined casserole pan and let them proof in a warm spot for about 45 minutes until they have doubled in size.

Step 3: Bake [07:18]

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. Bake the rolls for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and pour 3/4 cup of half-and-half or whole milk over the top of the rolls.
3. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 23-26 minutes until golden brown on top.

Step 4: Make the Caramel Sauce and Final Assembly [06:11]

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup white granulated sugar and 1/4 cup water. Let it cook until the sugar caramelizes into a golden-brown color.
2. Stir in 1/4 cup unsalted butter and let it melt. Whisk in 1/2 cup cream.
3. Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon sea salt flakes and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Set aside.
4. Once the rolls are out of the oven, drizzle the caramel sauce over them while they are still hot.
5. Sprinkle with extra pecans if desired and serve.