Irresistible Pecan Pie Cinnamon Rolls Recipe You Must Try

The aroma of warm cinnamon rolls baking in the oven, combined with the rich, nutty sweetness of pecan pie filling, is a match made in breakfast heaven. These irresistible pecan pie cinnamon rolls are the ultimate blend of two classic favorites. Imagine soft, fluffy rolls swirled with cinnamon sugar and topped with gooey pecan pie filling—every bite feels like a warm hug. When you want to impress your family or guests, this recipe is your golden ticket. Trust me, once you make them, they’ll be on repeat in your kitchen!

I first created this recipe out of a craving for pecan pie during breakfast hours (yes, I know—dessert cravings don’t follow a clock). The result was better than I ever imagined, and now it’s become a staple for holiday mornings, brunch gatherings, and even cozy weekends. Plus, they’re surprisingly simple to make considering how impressive they look and taste. Ready to bake up some magic?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect Harmony: These rolls combine the soft, pillowy texture of cinnamon rolls with the sticky, nutty decadence of pecan pie filling. It’s like dessert for breakfast, but somehow it feels totally acceptable!
• Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday brunch, a birthday morning, or just a treat-yourself day, these pecan pie cinnamon rolls fit the mood perfectly.
• Easy to Make: You don’t need fancy equipment or complicated techniques. The recipe is approachable, even if you’re not a seasoned baker.
• Kid and Crowd Approved: These rolls disappear in minutes! Everyone loves the combination of warm spices, gooey filling, and the crunch of pecans.
• Customizable: You can tweak the recipe to make it dairy-free, add extra toppings, or even make mini rolls for parties.

What sets this recipe apart is the pecan pie-inspired topping. It’s not just sweet—it’s buttery, nutty, and caramelized, adding a depth of flavor you don’t get from ordinary cinnamon rolls. Plus, the rolls themselves are so soft they practically melt in your mouth. If you love comfort food with a touch of indulgence, this recipe was made for you.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses everyday ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

• For the Dough:
  • All-purpose flour (you can substitute with gluten-free flour if needed)
  • Granulated sugar
  • Instant yeast (makes the process faster)
  • Whole milk, warm (for a soft texture)
  • Unsalted butter, melted
  • Eggs, room temperature
  • Salt
• For the Cinnamon Filling:
  • Brown sugar
  • Ground cinnamon
  • Unsalted butter, softened
• For the Pecan Pie Topping:
  • Pecans, chopped
  • Brown sugar
  • Unsalted butter
  • Heavy cream (or a dairy-free alternative)
  • A pinch of salt

If you prefer dairy-free options, swap the butter with plant-based alternatives and use almond or oat milk instead of whole milk. Gluten-free bakers can use a one-to-one gluten-free flour blend. These rolls are flexible enough to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls (one large and one medium)
• Stand mixer with a dough hook (optional, but makes kneading easier)
• Rolling pin
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Whisk
• Pastry brush (for spreading butter)

If you don’t have a stand mixer, no worries! You can knead the dough by hand—it just takes a little extra elbow grease. A rolling pin is helpful, but you can use a clean wine bottle in a pinch. And if you’re low on baking dishes, try using two smaller pans instead.

Preparation Method

1. Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 3 1/2 cups (450g) of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup (50g) sugar, 2 1/4 tsp (7g) instant yeast, and 1 tsp salt. Add 1 cup (240ml) warm milk, 1/4 cup (60g) melted butter, and 2 eggs. Mix until a dough forms.
2. Knead: Knead the dough for about 8 minutes (or 5 minutes using a stand mixer) until it’s smooth and elastic. If it’s sticky, add a little flour, 1 tbsp at a time. Cover the bowl and let the dough rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
3. Prepare the Filling: While the dough rises, mix 1 cup (200g) brown sugar and 2 tbsp cinnamon in a bowl. Set aside. Soften 1/4 cup (60g) butter for spreading.
4. Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, roll it into a large rectangle (about 12×18 inches). Spread the softened butter evenly over the surface. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture on top, pressing it lightly into the dough.
5. Shape the Rolls: Roll the dough tightly from one long side to the other, forming a log. Cut into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise for 30 minutes.
6. Make the Pecan Topping: In a saucepan, melt 1/2 cup (115g) butter with 1 cup (200g) brown sugar and 1/3 cup (80ml) heavy cream. Stir in 1 cup (120g) chopped pecans and a pinch of salt. Let cool slightly.
7. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pour the pecan topping over the rolls and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.

The rolls should be golden, with the pecan topping bubbling beautifully. Let them cool for 10 minutes before serving to avoid burning your tongue (trust me on this one).

Cooking Tips & Techniques

• Use warm milk for the dough—it should be slightly warm to the touch, not hot. Hot milk can kill the yeast.
• If your dough feels too sticky, add flour gradually until it’s workable. Avoid adding too much, as this can make the rolls dense.
• Chill the pecan topping slightly before pouring it over the rolls to prevent it from soaking into the dough too quickly.
• For perfectly shaped rolls, use dental floss to cut the dough instead of a knife—it’s less messy and keeps the layers intact.
• Don’t skip the second rise after shaping the rolls! This step ensures they’re soft and fluffy.

Variations & Adaptations

• Dairy-Free: Use plant-based butter and almond milk instead of dairy ingredients. Coconut cream works well for the topping.
• Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking mix designed for yeast recipes.
• Extra Decadent: Add mini chocolate chips to the filling or drizzle melted chocolate over the baked rolls.
• Seasonal Twist: Replace pecans with walnuts or hazelnuts for a different flavor profile. You can even add dried cranberries for a festive touch.
• Mini Rolls: Cut smaller pieces for bite-sized rolls—perfect for parties or potlucks.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve these pecan pie cinnamon rolls warm with a cup of coffee, tea, or even cold milk. They’re indulgent enough to stand alone, but if you want extra flair, pair them with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream.

To store leftovers, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To freeze, wrap each roll individually and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Reheat rolls in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Each roll contains approximately 350 calories, 15g of fat, 45g of carbs, and 5g of protein. Pecans provide healthy fats and a dose of antioxidants, while cinnamon offers anti-inflammatory properties. If you opt for a dairy-free version, the fat content will slightly decrease.

These rolls are a treat, so enjoy them in moderation. They’re perfect for special occasions or when you need a little indulgence in your life.

Conclusion

Irresistible pecan pie cinnamon rolls bring two classics together into one unforgettable dish. Whether you’re hosting brunch or treating yourself, these rolls are guaranteed to impress. I love how they combine the warm spice of cinnamon rolls with the nutty richness of pecan pie—it’s comfort food at its finest.

If you give this recipe a try, let me know in the comments below! What variations did you try? Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family—it’s too good to keep to yourself. Happy baking!

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the dough, let it rise, and shape the rolls. Cover tightly and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let them come to room temperature and rise before baking.

Can I use store-bought dough?

Absolutely! While homemade dough tastes best, store-bought can save time. Look for pre-made cinnamon roll dough and add your pecan topping.

What’s the best way to chop pecans?

You can use a food processor for quick chopping or do it by hand with a sharp knife. Avoid over-processing, as you want small chunks, not crumbs.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Use plant-based butter and milk alternatives, and replace the egg in the dough with a flaxseed or chia seed substitute.

How do I prevent the rolls from sticking to the pan?

Grease your baking dish generously with butter, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

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