Easy Overnight Caramel Pecan Cinnamon Rolls
There’s something incredibly satisfying about waking up to the sweet, buttery aroma of Easy Overnight Caramel Pecan Cinnamon Rolls. This delightful treat combines the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon and caramel, making it a perfect indulgence for cozy mornings. With just a bit of prep the evening before, you can enjoy these fresh from the oven as you start your day.
Growing up, my grandmother always had a knack for creating the most indulgent breakfast treats. These cinnamon rolls were a family favorite, reserved for Sunday mornings or special occasions. I remember tiptoeing downstairs to the kitchen, where the rolls were resting on the counter, proofing overnight. The anticipation was half the fun, and the taste never disappointed. Now, I’ve adopted this cherished tradition, delighting in the same comforting routine with my own family.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe stands out for its ease and deliciousness. The overnight rise means less fussy morning prep, and you can even get the kids involved in the steps the night before. The tender, pillowy dough paired with gooey caramel and crunchy pecans creates a heavenly texture contrast that hits all the right notes. It’s a versatile recipe that works beautifully for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.
Ingredients Notes
Quality ingredients shine in this recipe. Opt for fresh pecans and real butter for the best flavor. If you can’t find light brown sugar for the caramel sauce, dark brown sugar can be substituted, though it will add a more intense molasses flavor. Additionally, plant-based butter works well if you’re looking to make the recipe dairy-free.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Start by making the dough. In a large mixing bowl, combine lukewarm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit until frothy, then mix in melted butter, salt, and eggs. Gradually add flour until a soft dough forms.
Step 2
Knead the dough on a floured surface till it’s smooth and elastic. Place it in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise until doubled in size. This should take about 1-2 hours.
Step 3
While the dough rises, make the caramel sauce. Combine the butter, brown sugar, and corn syrup in a saucepan, stirring over low heat until smooth. Pour this into your baking dish, then sprinkle with pecans.
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Step 4
Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle. Spread softened butter over the dough, sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon, then roll tightly into a log. Cut into even pieces and arrange them in the prepared baking dish.
Step 5
Cover and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let the rolls sit at room temperature while preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden. Let cool slightly before flipping onto a platter to serve.
Storage Options
These rolls are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to a month. To reheat, allow them to thaw and warm gently in a low oven or microwave.
Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to experiment by adding dried fruits or swapping nuts for seeds to accommodate allergies. A cream cheese glaze instead of caramel can offer a tangy twist, and for a spicier flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the cinnamon sugar mix.
Serving Suggestions
These delightful rolls pair beautifully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or hot chocolate. Serve them as a centerpiece for a brunch buffet or during holiday breakfasts to impress your guests with minimal effort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these cinnamon rolls vegan? Absolutely! Substitute plant-based butter for regular butter and use a plant-based milk such as almond or oat milk in the dough. For the caramel, use coconut cream instead of dairy cream for a similar rich texture.
What if I don’t have overnight to let them rise? No worries! If you’re short on time, you can use a quick-rise yeast. Allow the rolls to proof at room temperature for about 1-2 hours before baking, though the flavor may not be as developed as the overnight version.
How do I prevent the rolls from being too dry? Ensure not to overbake them. The rolls should be golden and feel firm yet slightly soft to the touch. Additionally, proper kneading of the dough ensures that they remain soft and tender.
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Easy Overnight Caramel Pecan Cinnamon Rolls
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup whole milk warmed to about 105°F
- 2.25 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 0.5 cup granulated sugar divided
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs room temperature
- 1.5 cups pecans chopped
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 0.75 cup unsalted butter softened
- 0.25 cup heavy cream
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of the sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes until bubbly.
- Add remaining sugar, flour, melted butter, salt, and eggs to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Roll the dough out into a rectangle on a floured surface. Spread the softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle with brown sugar, cinnamon, and pecans.
- Roll the dough tightly into a log and cut into 12 slices. Place in a greased baking dish and cover. Refrigerate overnight.
- The next morning, preheat oven to 350°F. Pour the heavy cream over the rolls, then bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
Notes
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