Are you ready for the most delicious and softest sourdough caramel pecan cinnamon rolls ever? This recipe features fluffy, buttery brioche dough made with an active sourdough starter for an incredible depth of flavor. Each bite showcases a harmonious blend of buttery richness, sweet caramel, and crunchy pecans.
Why These Rolls Are a Must-Try
Balanced Sweetness: These rolls aren’t overwhelmingly sweet. Instead, you’ll savor the buttery dough, cinnamon swirls, and the deep caramel flavor, all enhanced by the nuttiness of pecans.
Easy Caramel Creation: Making homemade caramel doesn’t require a thermometer or corn syrup. A simple stovetop technique ensures success.
Fluffy Dough: The brioche dough is soft and airy, yet it pairs perfectly with the rich caramel, making these rolls a delightful treat.
Overnight Bulk Fermentation: Prepare the dough the night before for an epic brunch experience the next morning.
Ingredients Needed:
Sourdough Starter: The base of the dough, providing a subtle tangy flavor.
Flour: A combination of all-purpose and whole wheat flour creates the perfect texture.
Milk, Egg, and Butter: These ingredients enrich the dough, adding moisture and flavor.
Sugars: Granulated and brown sugar are used for sweetness and depth.
Cinnamon: Adds a warm, aromatic touch to the filling.
Heavy Cream and Pecans: Essential for the caramel sauce and topping.
How To Make:
Preparing the Brioche Dough
Start with the Dough: The recipe uses an enriched brioche dough, which includes butter, egg, and milk. Using a stand mixer, blend the dough to form a smooth consistency.
Add Softened Butter: Gradually incorporate softened butter into the dough until it is fully mixed in.
Bulk Fermentation: Cover the dough and let it rise overnight on the counter. It should double in size and become puffy.
Making the Caramel
Create Caramel Sauce: Prepare a caramel sauce by melting butter and combining it with brown sugar, heavy cream, honey, and salt. Let it simmer until it becomes glossy and aromatic.
Pour Caramel into Baking Pan: Pour the caramel sauce into a baking pan and sprinkle with pecans. Let it cool in the refrigerator.
Assembling and Baking the Rolls
Roll Out the Dough: Roll the dough into a large rectangle and spread the filling evenly over it.
Form a Log and Cut Rolls: Roll the dough into a log and cut it into individual rolls.
Allow Rolls to Rise: Place the rolls in the pan with caramel, allowing them to rise for about 3 hours until they double in size.
Bake the Rolls: Preheat the oven and bake the rolls until they are golden brown and set in the center.
Variations and Tips
Nuts: Experiment with different nuts such as cashews or walnuts if you prefer them over pecans.
Checking Doneness: Use a thermometer to ensure the rolls are fully baked. They should reach 200°F.
FAQs
What pan should I use?
A glass baking pan is recommended for achieving the perfect caramelized top.
How to store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the freezer and reheat as needed.