Fluffy Hawaiian sweet rolls transformed into gooey, caramel-laden sticky buns with chopped pecans, butter, and brown sugar. These indulgent treats are easy to make and perfect for breakfast or dessert.
Imagine biting into soft, sweet Hawaiian rolls coated in a luscious caramel sauce with crunchy pecans. These Hawaiian Rolls Sticky Buns are an irresistible twist on traditional sticky buns.
The sweetness of the rolls combined with the buttery caramel and nutty pecans makes for a decadent treat that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re serving them for brunch or as an afternoon snack, they are sure to impress!
Hawaiian Rolls Sticky Buns
Soft, sweet, and irresistibly sticky – these Hawaiian Rolls Sticky Buns are a caramel lover's dream!
Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup brown sugar (light or dark), packed
- 4 tablespoons light corn syrup
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 12-pack Hawaiian sweet rolls
Instructions
1. Prepare the Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the buns after baking.
2. Cut the Hawaiian Rolls
Take each Hawaiian sweet roll and cut an ‘X’ into the top, making sure not to slice all the way through. This will allow the caramel sauce to seep into the rolls later.
3. Make the Caramel Sauce
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter, heavy cream, brown sugar, corn syrup, and salt. Stir the mixture until the butter has melted and the sugar has dissolved. Continue stirring constantly and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, remove the saucepan from the heat and let the bubbling subside.
4. Prepare the Baking Dish with Caramel
Pour the warm caramel mixture into the bottom of your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the chopped pecans over the caramel sauce, ensuring even distribution.
5. Arrange the Rolls
Place the Hawaiian sweet rolls upside down (cut side facing the caramel and pecans) into the baking dish. This way, the caramel will fill the cuts and coat the rolls perfectly.
6. Bake the Rolls
Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 14 to 18 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown. The rolls should be warm and slightly crispy on the outside.
7. Invert the Rolls
Once baked, allow the rolls to rest in the baking dish for about 5 minutes—no longer, or the caramel will harden. Place a large serving platter over the baking dish and carefully invert it so the rolls come out caramel-side up.
8. Add Extra Caramel
Spoon any leftover caramel and pecans from the pan over the tops of the rolls, especially into the ‘X’ cuts for extra gooey goodness.
9. Serve and Store
Serve the sticky buns warm. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
FAQs
1. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the caramel and arrange the rolls in the baking dish ahead of time, then refrigerate overnight. Bake them fresh in the morning for a warm, delicious treat.
2. What if I don’t have pecans?
Feel free to substitute pecans with other nuts like walnuts or almonds, or leave them out altogether for a nut-free version.
3. Can I use a different type of roll?
Hawaiian sweet rolls work best because of their soft texture and slight sweetness, but you can substitute with regular dinner rolls if needed. Keep in mind the taste may vary slightly.