Introduction to Cinnamon Maple Walnut Sticky Buns
As a busy mom, I know how challenging it can be to carve out time for ourselves amidst the chaos of daily life. That’s why I’m excited to share my recipe for Cinnamon Maple Walnut Sticky Buns. These delightful treats bring warmth and joy to any breakfast table. Imagine the sweet aroma of cinnamon and maple wafting through your home, wrapping your loved ones in a cozy embrace. These buns are not just indulgent; they’re an opportunity to create memories together. Perfect for surprising your family or enjoying a quiet moment with coffee, they’re simply irresistible!
Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Maple Walnut Sticky Buns
These Cinnamon Maple Walnut Sticky Buns are a true delight, blending ease and comfort in every bite. They come together quickly, making them an ideal choice for busy mornings or last-minute gatherings. The rich flavors of buttery caramel, cinnamon, and walnuts will have your family begging for more. Plus, they fill your kitchen with a heavenly aroma that lingers, inviting everyone to savor a sweet moment together.
Ingredients for Cinnamon Maple Walnut Sticky Buns
Let’s dive into the scrumptious world of Cinnamon Maple Walnut Sticky Buns! Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need to create these delightful treats. Don’t worry; I’ll keep it simple and informative. The exact quantities are available at the bottom of the article for easy printing!
- All-purpose flour: The backbone of our dough, providing the perfect texture for those fluffy buns.
- Granulated sugar: Just a touch adds sweetness to the dough, enhancing flavor without overpowering.
- Active dry yeast: This little powerhouse is what makes your buns rise beautifully, giving them that soft, airy quality.
- Whole milk: Lukewarm milk activates the yeast and makes the dough rich. It’s creamy and comforting!
- Unsalted butter: You’ll use melted butter in the dough and softened butter in the filling. It adds richness and depth.
- Large eggs: Room temperature eggs help bind the dough and contribute to its delightful fluffiness.
- Salt: Just a pinch balances out the sweetness and enhances the flavors in your buns.
- Brown sugar: You’ll use this in both the caramel and filling. It adds a deep, molasses-like flavor that pairs wonderfully with cinnamon.
- Pure maple syrup: This magical ingredient sweetens the caramel sauce and gives a hint of that signature maple flavor.
- Chopped walnuts: Adds a delightful crunch and earthy richness. You can easily substitute pecans if you prefer!
- Ground cinnamon: The star of the show! It fills the buns with warmth and an intoxicating aroma.
- Powdered sugar: This sweet dust is essential for the glorious glaze that finishes your sticky buns.
- Milk (for glaze): Adding just enough helps achieve that smooth, drizzled consistency.
With these simple yet impactful ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating something truly special. Get ready to indulge in the magic that is Cinnamon Maple Walnut Sticky Buns!
How to Make Cinnamon Maple Walnut Sticky Buns
Let’s roll up our sleeves and jump into the exciting process of making Cinnamon Maple Walnut Sticky Buns. Trust me, the delightful journey to these buns is almost as sweet as enjoying them! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of warm, delectable buns in no time.
Prepare the Dough
Start by mixing your lukewarm milk, granulated sugar, and active dry yeast in a large mixing bowl. Let it sit for about five minutes until it becomes frothy. That’s the yeast waking up and getting ready to work its magic!
Next, add the melted unsalted butter, room temperature eggs, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir it well until blended. Gradually mix in the all-purpose flour, one cup at a time, until the dough starts to pull together.
It’s now time to knead! Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about six to eight minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s smooth and elastic. Place it in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm area until it doubles in size—around one hour.
Prepare the Maple Walnut Caramel
While your dough is rising, let’s whip up that ooey-gooey caramel! In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Stir in the packed brown sugar, pure maple syrup, and salt. Keep stirring until everything dissolves into a smooth mixture. Cook for an additional two to three minutes until it bubbles gently.
Pour this luscious caramel evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the roughly chopped walnuts over the caramel base. This crunchy layer is what makes these buns unforgettable!
Prepare the Filling
In a small bowl, combine the packed brown sugar and ground cinnamon. This delightful mix will turn your dough into a cinnamon paradise with each bite. Make sure it’s mixed well, because every bit needs to be bursting with flavor!
Assemble the Buns
Once the dough has risen beautifully, place it on a floured surface and roll it into a 16×12-inch rectangle. Spread softened butter evenly over the surface of the dough. Now, bring on that cinnamon-sugar filling! Sprinkle it evenly, covering every inch of that buttery goodness.
Starting from one long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Then, slice the log into 12 even pieces. This is where the magic really starts to happen!
Arrange and Second Proof
Carefully place the sliced buns, cut-side up, into your baking dish on top of the caramel and walnuts. It’s starting to look delicious! Cover them lightly and allow them to rise again in a warm spot for about 30 to 40 minutes until they’re puffy and full of promise.
Bake
Now comes the exciting part—baking! Preheat your oven to 350°F. Once it’s hot and ready, place your baking dish inside and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Check until the tops are golden brown and the caramel is bubbling at the edges. Your kitchen will smell incredible!
Invert and Cool
After baking, let the sticky buns rest in the pan for five minutes. Then, carefully flip the dish onto a serving platter while they’re still warm. This will unveil the glorious caramelized walnut topping, making your buns look like a work of art.
Finish with Maple Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, pure maple syrup, and enough milk to achieve a silky, pourable glaze. When the sticky buns have cooled just a bit, drizzle the generous glaze over them. This final touch elevates your Cinnamon Maple Walnut Sticky Buns to pure bliss!
Tips for Success
- Ensure your milk is lukewarm to get that yeast bubbling.
- Don’t rush the rising process; it’s crucial for fluffy buns.
- Use parchment paper for easy cleanup when inverting the sticky buns.
- For extra flavor, toast the walnuts lightly before using.
- Feel free to make the dough in advance and refrigerate!
Equipment Needed for Cinnamon Maple Walnut Sticky Buns
- Large mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl ensures you have enough space to mix your dough.
- 9×13-inch baking dish: This is essential for the caramel and sticky buns to bake beautifully.
- Rolling pin: A must-have for rolling out your dough perfectly.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements help achieve the best results.
- Whisk: Great for mixing your glaze into a smooth consistency.
Variations of Cinnamon Maple Walnut Sticky Buns
- Nut-Free Version: Skip the walnuts and substitute with additional cinnamon or a sprinkle of raisins for a delightful twist.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just ensure it contains xantham gum for texture.
- Vegan Alternative: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water and use plant-based milk and butter for a delicious vegan twist.
- Chocolate Chip Delight: Add mini chocolate chips to the filling for a rich, decadent flair that chocolate lovers won’t resist.
- Maple Pecan Swirl: Swap walnuts for pecans for a different nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with maple.
- Spiced Fall Twist: Mix in ground ginger and nutmeg with the cinnamon for a spiced version that’s perfect for autumn.
Serving Suggestions for Cinnamon Maple Walnut Sticky Buns
- Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
- Pair with a steaming cup of freshly brewed coffee or a comforting chai latte to balance the sweetness.
- Garnish with extra chopped walnuts or a light sprinkle of cinnamon for a polished presentation.
- Consider a side of fresh fruit for a bright, tart contrast to the sticky sweetness.
- For festive occasions, arrange them beautifully on a platter, drizzled with glaze for an eye-catching dessert centerpiece.
FAQs about Cinnamon Maple Walnut Sticky Buns
Wondering about Cinnamon Maple Walnut Sticky Buns? I’ve got you covered! Here are some frequently asked questions to help you make the most of this sweet delight.
Can I make the dough ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and store it in the fridge overnight. Just make sure to bring it back to room temperature before rolling and baking.
What if I don’t have walnuts? No worries! You can substitute them with pecans or simply omit them for a nut-free version. The flavors will still shine through!
How do I store leftover sticky buns? Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore their gooey goodness.
Can I freeze the sticky buns? Yes! Freeze the unbaked rolled buns before the second rise. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake, let them thaw and rise before baking.
How can I enhance the maple flavor? Try adding a splash of maple extract to the dough or glaze for an extra burst of that beloved maple goodness. You can also drizzle additional maple syrup over the finished buns!
Final Thoughts
Creating these Cinnamon Maple Walnut Sticky Buns is not just about baking; it’s about crafting sweet moments with your loved ones. Each warm, gooey bite is a reminder of home and happiness, filled with the comforting embrace of cinnamon and maple. Imagine gathering around the table, sharing stories and laughter, as the aroma fills the air. This recipe brings joy to your kitchen, making it a cherished memory for everyone. So, roll up your sleeves, let the world fade away, and indulge in this delightful adventure. You deserve these sweet moments!
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Cinnamon Maple Walnut Sticky Buns
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: 12 sticky buns 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulgent cinnamon maple walnut sticky buns topped with a rich caramel and finished with a sweet maple glaze.
Ingredients
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 3/4 cup whole milk, lukewarm
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (for caramel)
- 2/3 cup packed brown sugar (for caramel)
- 1/3 cup pure maple syrup (for caramel)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (for caramel)
- 1 cup walnuts, roughly chopped (for caramel)
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar (for filling)
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (for filling)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (for filling)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup (for glaze)
- 1 to 2 tablespoons milk (for glaze)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine lukewarm whole milk, granulated sugar, and active dry yeast. Allow the mixture to sit until foamy, approximately 5 minutes. Incorporate melted unsalted butter, eggs, and salt, mixing thoroughly. Gradually blend in all-purpose flour until a soft, cohesive dough begins to form. Transfer to a floured work surface and knead for 6 to 8 minutes until the dough achieves a smooth and elastic texture. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and allow it to rise in a warm environment until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
- Prepare the Maple Walnut Caramel: Melt unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in packed brown sugar, pure maple syrup, and salt until fully dissolved. Continue cooking for 2 to 3 minutes, ensuring the caramel is smooth and bubbling. Evenly pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Distribute chopped walnuts over the caramel base.
- Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, mix the packed brown sugar and ground cinnamon until thoroughly combined.
- Assemble the Buns: On a floured surface, roll the dough into a 16×12-inch rectangle. Gently spread softened butter over the entire surface. Evenly sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar filling across the buttered dough. Starting from a long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Slice into 12 uniform pieces.
- Arrange and Second Proof: Place the sliced buns, cut-side up, into the baking dish, positioning them atop the walnut caramel. Cover lightly and let rise in a warm location until buns are visibly puffy, approximately 30–40 minutes.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake the buns for 25 to 30 minutes, until the tops are golden brown and the caramel is bubbling at the edges.
- Invert and Cool: Remove the dish from the oven and let the sticky buns rest in the pan for 5 minutes. While still warm, carefully invert the baking dish onto a serving platter so the caramelized walnut topping becomes the crown.
- Finish with Maple Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, pure maple syrup, and enough milk to achieve a smooth, pourable consistency. Generously drizzle the glaze over the warm buns before serving.
Notes
- Ensure the milk is lukewarm to activate the yeast properly.
- Feel free to substitute pecans for walnuts if desired.
- These sticky buns are best served warm.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bun
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
