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Sticky Pecan Caramel Twist Bread

A show-stopping spiral bread loaded with cinnamon-sugar layers and drenched in a sticky caramel pecan glaze. This sweet and nutty twist on classic sticky buns is perfect for holiday mornings, weekend brunch, or an indulgent dessert centerpiece.

Ingredients

Scale
  • For the Dough:
  • 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
  • 3/4 cup warm milk (110°F)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • For the Filling:
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • For the Pecan Caramel Topping:
  • 3/4 cup chopped pecans
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp heavy cream
  • Pinch of salt
  • Optional: flaky sea salt for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Stir in melted butter, egg, and salt. Add flour gradually and knead until smooth (8–10 minutes). Cover and let rise until doubled, about 1 hour.
  3. Roll dough into a large rectangle. Spread with softened butter and sprinkle with cinnamon-sugar mixture.
  4. Roll up the dough tightly from the long side and cut in half lengthwise. Twist both halves together and coil into a spiral shape. Place in a greased round baking dish. Let rise again for 30 minutes.
  5. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  6. In a saucepan, melt butter with brown sugar, cream, and salt. Stir in pecans and cook for 1–2 minutes until bubbly. Pour mixture over the twisted dough.
  7. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until golden brown and caramel is bubbling.
  8. Cool slightly, sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired, and serve warm.

Notes

  • Ensure milk is warm but not hot to activate the yeast properly.
  • You can prepare the dough the night before and refrigerate after first rise.
  • Use a serrated knife for cleaner slicing of the rolled dough.
  • This bread is best served warm, but can be reheated gently if needed.

Nutrition

Keywords: pecan caramel bread, twist bread, sticky buns, cinnamon swirl bread, brunch dessert, holiday baking, caramel pecan glaze, spiral bread, sweet yeast bread, showstopper dessert