Name: Craisin Pecan Sticky Buns
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: ⅓ cup brown sugar; ¼ cup butter, melted; 2 Tablespoons maple syrup; 1 Tablespoon grated orange zest; ⅓ cup Craisins; ⅓ cup chopped pecans; 2 Tablespoons sugar; ½ teaspoon cinnamon; 8 ounces crescent roll dough, 1 package

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These Craisin Pecan Sticky Buns are a delightful blend of sweet, tangy, and nutty flavors, perfect for a cozy morning treat. Soft, pillowy dough is swirled with plump, chewy craisins and crunchy pecans, then baked to golden perfection. A luscious caramel glaze adds a sticky, gooey finish that’s impossible to resist. Ready in just 35 minutes, they’re a quick yet indulgent way to start your day or impress guests with minimal effort.

Every bite offers a symphony of textures—crispy edges, tender centers, and a satisfying crunch from the pecans. The balance of tart craisins and rich caramel creates a flavor profile that’s both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, these buns are simple to make and guaranteed to fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet afternoon pick-me-up, they’re a treat you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients for Craisin Pecan Sticky Buns

⅓ cup brown sugar (packed for best results)
¼ cup butter, melted (unsalted recommended)
2 Tablespoons maple syrup (pure maple syrup for richer flavor)
1 Tablespoon grated orange zest (from about 1 medium orange)
⅓ cup Craisins (dried cranberries; substitute with raisins if preferred)
⅓ cup chopped pecans (toasted for extra flavor; walnuts can be substituted)
2 Tablespoons sugar (granulated)
½ teaspoon cinnamon (ground)
8 ounces crescent roll dough (1 package, refrigerated)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, melted butter, maple syrup, and orange zest until well combined.
Spread the brown sugar mixture evenly across the bottom of a round 8-inch baking dish.
Sprinkle Craisins and chopped pecans over the brown sugar mixture.
Remove the crescent roll dough from the can, but do not unroll it. Slice the dough into 12 equal slices, about ½ inch thick.
In a small dish, mix sugar and cinnamon. Dip each dough slice on both sides into the sugar-cinnamon mixture.
Place the coated dough slices in the baking dish, arranging them on top of the brown sugar layer. Sprinkle any remaining sugar-cinnamon mixture over the top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-22 minutes, or until the buns are golden brown and the topping is bubbly.
Immediately after removing from the oven, invert the baking dish onto a plate to release the sticky buns. Serve warm and enjoy!

Sweet and Tangy Topping Ideas

While the brown sugar and maple syrup base is delicious, you can elevate your sticky buns with a drizzle of cream cheese glaze or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. For a tangy twist, mix 1/4 cup of cream cheese with 2 tablespoons of milk and 1/2 cup of powdered sugar, then drizzle over the warm buns. Alternatively, a simple dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance without overpowering the flavors.

Perfect Pairings for Serving

These Craisin Pecan Sticky Buns are perfect for breakfast or brunch. Serve them alongside a hot cup of coffee or a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice to complement the citrus zest. For a heartier meal, pair them with scrambled eggs or a fruit salad. They also make a delightful dessert when served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Storing and Reheating Tips

To keep your sticky buns fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month. To reheat, place them in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes or microwave for 15-20 seconds until warm. For the best texture, avoid over-microwaving, as it can make the buns soggy.

Quick Time-Saving Hacks

If you’re short on time, skip grating the orange zest and use 1 teaspoon of orange extract instead. You can also prepare the brown sugar mixture and chop the pecans the night before, storing them in separate containers. When ready to bake, simply assemble and pop them in the oven. Using pre-chopped pecans or pre-packaged crescent dough can also save a few extra minutes.

Fun Recipe Variations to Try

Switch up the flavors by replacing the Craisins with dried apricots or chopped dates. For a nut-free version, swap pecans with sunflower seeds or omit them entirely. If you love chocolate, add a handful of mini chocolate chips to the filling. You can also experiment with different spices, like nutmeg or cardamom, to give the buns a unique twist.