Maple Pecan Cinnamon Swirls are a delightful twist on the classic cinnamon roll, bringing together the rich flavors of maple syrup and pecans with a warm cinnamon filling. Perfect for a cozy brunch or a sweet treat any day of the week, these swirls are sure to impress your family and friends.
The base of our swirls is all-purpose flour, providing structure and softness. A touch of granulated sugar adds a hint of sweetness to the dough. Salt balances flavors, while instant yeast gives the dough its rise. Warm milk activates the yeast, and melted butter adds richness. A large egg binds everything together.
For the filling, dark brown sugar and ground cinnamon create that classic cinnamon roll flavor. Finely chopped pecans add a delightful crunch. The softened butter helps the filling adhere to the dough, while pure maple syrup in the glaze offers a sweet, sticky finish. Powdered sugar and heavy cream are the perfect partners for a smooth glaze. Additional chopped pecans on top offer a final touch of texture.
These swirls are perfect for a leisurely weekend brunch. Pair them with a side of fresh fruit salad or a savory scramble to balance the sweetness. For a special occasion, serve with a mimosa or a hot cup of chai tea to complement the warm spices.
Start by mixing the dry ingredients: combine 2 cups of flour, 1/4 cup of sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and a packet of instant yeast in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together 3/4 cup of warm milk, 1/4 cup of melted butter, and a large egg. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until a dough forms.
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until it's smooth and elastic. Place it in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour, or until doubled in size.
Once your dough has risen, roll it out into a rectangle, roughly 12x18 inches, on a floured surface. Spread 1/4 cup of softened butter evenly over the dough. Sprinkle a mixture of 1/2 cup dark brown sugar, 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 cup of chopped pecans over the buttered dough.
Carefully roll the dough into a tight log from the long side. Slice the log into 12 even pieces and place them into a greased baking dish. Cover and let them rise for another 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 350°F while they rise.
Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown. While they bake, whisk together 1/3 cup maple syrup, 1 cup powdered sugar, and 1/4 cup heavy cream to make the glaze. Drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls, then sprinkle with the remaining 1/4 cup of chopped pecans.
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