If you're craving something cozy and indulgent, these Spiced Maple Pecan Cinnamon Rolls are exactly what you need. They combine the warm flavors of cinnamon and maple syrup with the crunch of pecans — perfect for a lazy weekend morning.
The backbone of this recipe is the warm milk, which helps activate the yeast by providing the right environment for it to work its magic. The granulated sugar not only sweetens the dough but also feeds the yeast. Unsalted butter adds richness and flavor, while salt balances the sweetness. The eggs contribute to the dough’s structure and tenderness.
For the filling, brown sugar adds a deep, molasses-like sweetness that pairs perfectly with ground cinnamon, bringing that classic cinnamon roll flavor. Pecans add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. Pure maple syrup enhances the sweetness and adds a subtle complexity. For the glaze, powdered sugar and cream cheese create a creamy topping with a tangy twist, complemented by more maple syrup for extra flavor.
These cinnamon rolls are delightful when served warm with a pat of butter melting on top. For an extra special brunch, pair them with a side of fresh fruit and a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice. They also make a great dessert alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Begin by preparing the dough. In a large bowl, combine your warm milk with yeast and granulated sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes. You'll know it's ready when it looks frothy. This means the yeast is activated and ready to go.
Stir in the melted butter, salt, and eggs. Mix well, then gradually add in the flour until a soft dough forms. Once it starts to pull away from the bowl, transfer it to a floured surface and knead for about 8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place. This should take about an hour, during which the dough will double in size. While waiting, you can prepare your filling ingredients.
Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a rectangle on a floured surface. Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough. Sprinkle the brown sugar, cinnamon, and pecans on top, then drizzle with maple syrup.
Roll the dough tightly from the longer side, creating a log. Cut this log into 12 equal slices and arrange them in a greased baking dish. Allow them to rise for another 30 minutes until they're nice and puffy.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once it's ready, bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and your kitchen smells divine.
For the glaze, mix together powdered sugar, cream cheese, and maple syrup until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls just before serving to maximize the gooey goodness.
Share