Pecan Praline Cinnamon Rolls

Prepare to be captivated by the ultimate fusion of two beloved dessert classics: Pecan Pie Cinnamon Rolls. Imagine the soft, fluffy embrace of a homemade cinnamon roll, generously swirled with a rich, spiced pecan filling, and then elevated with a decadent pecan pie filling. All of this gloriousness is crowned with a luscious cream cheese glaze, creating an irresistible treat that perfectly bridges the gap between a comforting breakfast and a luxurious holiday dessert.

These aren’t just any cinnamon rolls; they are a celebration of flavor and texture, designed to bring joy to any table. Whether you’re seeking an extraordinary breakfast pastry, a delightful brunch centerpiece, or a show-stopping dessert for special occasions, these pecan pie cinnamon rolls promise an unforgettable experience. Their gooey, tender interior and crisp, nutty topping offer a symphony of tastes that will leave everyone craving more.

This post is proudly sponsored by Wholesome, a brand committed to providing high-quality, organic, and Fair Trade certified sweeteners. All thoughts and opinions expressed are genuinely my own. Your support for brands like Wholesome helps make Stephanie’s Sweet Treats possible, allowing me to continue sharing delicious and inspiring recipes with you!

I have been compensated by Wholesome Sweeteners, Inc., maker of Wholesome® sweeteners, for my participation in this campaign. This partnership allows us to highlight the exceptional quality of ingredients that truly make a difference in your baking.

Top view of luscious pecan pie cinnamon rolls, freshly baked and glazed, ready to be enjoyed.

Every bite of these pecan pie cinnamon rolls is a testament to indulgence. If your heart sings for incredibly gooey cinnamon rolls and the comforting, nutty sweetness of a classic pecan pie, then prepare to fall head over heels for this creation. It’s an edible masterpiece that will undoubtedly become a new favorite in your recipe collection, so good that it’s truly irresistible.

Crafting these extraordinary cinnamon rolls begins with exceptional ingredients. This recipe specifically calls for Wholesome Organic Fair Trade Dark Brown Sugar. Wholesome is renowned for its commitment to ingredients that not only taste superior but also align with ethical and sustainable practices. Using their Fair Trade and Organic products brings an added layer of satisfaction to my baking, knowing that I am choosing high-quality, conscientiously sourced ingredients. Their dark brown sugar, in particular, boasts a higher molasses content, imparting a deeper, richer, and more complex flavor profile than lighter brown sugars—a crucial element for achieving that authentic, comforting pecan pie essence.

Looking for more delicious ways to start your day or satisfy a sweet craving? Explore these other delightful breakfast recipes: Apple Cider Muffins, Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins, and Chocolate Glazed Donuts. Each recipe offers a unique blend of flavors and textures, perfect for any morning.

Why These Gooey Pecan Pie Cinnamon Rolls Are a Must-Try

Discover the compelling reasons why these homemade pecan pie cinnamon rolls are set to become your next obsession:

  • A Delightful Pecan Pie for Breakfast: These rolls brilliantly transform your beloved Thanksgiving dessert into an acceptable, even celebrated, breakfast or brunch item. They offer all the warm, nutty, and sweet flavors of pecan pie, nestled within a soft, buttery cinnamon roll, making them a perfect treat for holidays or any special morning.
  • Unmatched Homemade Softness and Gooeyness: There’s nothing quite like the texture of genuinely homemade cinnamon rolls. Our recipe ensures an incredibly soft, tender dough that bakes into rolls with perfectly gooey centers, brimming with rich filling. This signature melt-in-your-mouth texture is what makes the best cinnamon rolls so utterly irresistible.
  • Convenient Prep-Ahead Option: Life is busy, but delicious homemade treats don’t have to be out of reach. This recipe offers excellent flexibility, allowing you to prepare the dough the night before you plan to bake and enjoy them. Simply follow the overnight rise instructions for the dough, and you’ll wake up to a minimal morning effort for freshly baked, warm rolls.
  • Irresistible Flavor Combination: The marriage of classic cinnamon spice with the deep, caramel notes of pecan pie is simply divine. Each bite delivers a harmonious blend of comforting flavors and satisfying textures, from the chewy pecans to the tender dough and the tangy cream cheese glaze.
Close-up of a pecan pie cinnamon roll split open, revealing its gooey layers of filling.

Essential Ingredient Notes for Perfect Pecan Pie Sweet Rolls

Achieving the perfect pecan pie cinnamon rolls starts with understanding your ingredients. Here are some key notes to ensure your baking success. For a complete list of quantities, refer to the detailed recipe card below.

  • Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted butter gives you control over the overall saltiness of your bake. Crucially, remember to pull your butter out of the fridge at least two hours before you begin, allowing it to soften to room temperature. This ensures it creams smoothly into your dough and fillings, creating that desirable tender crumb.
  • Milk: Any type of milk (dairy or non-dairy) will work, but the temperature is paramount. Warm it to precisely 110°F (43°C). If the milk is too hot, it will kill the active yeast, preventing your dough from rising. If it’s too cool, the yeast’s activity will be dramatically slowed, leading to a much longer and less effective rise.
  • Active Dry Yeast: This recipe calls for 1 packet of active dry yeast, which typically contains about 2¼ teaspoons or 7 grams. Active dry yeast needs to be activated in warm liquid (like our milk) before being added to the dry ingredients. While often used interchangeably, note that this is distinct from “fast-rise” or “instant” yeast, which doesn’t require prior activation. Stick to active dry yeast for optimal results.
  • Eggs: Similar to butter, eggs should be at room temperature for seamless incorporation into the dough. Take them out about two hours before you start baking. Also, ensure they are lightly beaten before adding them to the flour mixture; this helps them integrate more easily and evenly.
  • Wholesome Organic Fair Trade Cane Sugar: This is the ideal sweetener for the dough, providing a clean, balanced sweetness that complements the rich fillings without overpowering them. Wholesome’s commitment to organic and Fair Trade practices means you’re using a high-quality product that’s good for both your bake and the planet.
  • Wholesome Organic Fair Trade Dark Brown Sugar: This is a star ingredient for both the cinnamon pecan filling and the pecan pie filling. Its higher molasses content contributes a richer, deeper, and more complex caramel-like flavor, essential for that authentic pecan pie taste. While Wholesome Organic Light Brown Sugar can be used as a substitute, the dark brown sugar truly elevates the depth of flavor.
  • Wholesome Organic Fair Trade Powdered Confectioners Sugar: For the silkiest, lump-free cream cheese glaze, using high-quality powdered sugar is key. Wholesome’s organic confectioners sugar provides a pure, fine texture. Remember to sift it before use to eliminate any potential clumps, ensuring your glaze is perfectly smooth.

Ingredient Substitutions for Pecan Pie Cinnamon Rolls

While the original recipe delivers exceptional results, here are some potential substitutions to adapt to dietary needs or ingredient availability:

  • Dairy-Free Option: You can absolutely create a delicious dairy-free version of these pecan pie cinnamon rolls! Substitute dairy milk with your favorite unsweetened plant-based milk (like almond or oat milk), and swap butter and cream cheese with high-quality dairy-free alternatives. Ensure your dairy-free butter is suitable for baking.
  • Gluten-Free Option: I have not personally tested this recipe with gluten-free flour. Baking with gluten-free flours often requires specific adjustments to liquid ratios and rise times, as different gluten-free blends behave uniquely. If you decide to experiment with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend (preferably one designed for yeast baking), please let me know your results! Your feedback could be incredibly helpful to others.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Crafting the Perfect Cinnamon Roll Dough

The foundation of these incredible pecan pie cinnamon rolls is a soft, pliable, and flavorful dough. Follow these detailed steps to create the perfect base for your sweet rolls:

STEP 1: Activate the Yeast. Begin by gently warming your milk. Heat it in a microwave-safe bowl for approximately 1 minute, or until it reaches a temperature of 110°F (43°C). This precise temperature is crucial for activating the yeast without killing it. Once the milk is at the correct temperature, sprinkle the active dry yeast evenly over the surface. Allow it to sit undisturbed for 10 minutes. During this time, the yeast should dissolve and become foamy, indicating that it is active and ready to work its magic.

STEP 2: Combine Dry Ingredients and Knead in Butter. In a spacious large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, Wholesome Organic Fair Trade Cane Sugar, and salt. This ensures all dry ingredients are evenly distributed. Next, add the cubed, room-temperature unsalted butter. Using a pastry blender or your fingertips, work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, with the butter lumps no larger than the size of small peas. This step creates pockets of butter, contributing to the dough’s tenderness and flakiness.

STEP 3: Form the Dough. Now, add the lightly beaten eggs and the activated milk and yeast mixture to your dry ingredients. If you have a stand mixer, attach the dough hook and begin mixing on low speed. Continue mixing until the ingredients come together and a cohesive dough starts to form. If you are kneading by hand, refer to the recipe notes for specific instructions, then proceed to STEP 5 for the initial rise.

STEP 4: Knead for Elasticity. Once the dough has mostly come together, increase the stand mixer’s speed to medium. Allow the mixer to knead the dough for 5 minutes. This process develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in a smooth, elastic, and supple dough that will produce perfectly chewy and soft cinnamon rolls.

STEP 5: First Rise (Proofing). This is a critical step for developing flavor and texture. You have two options for the first rise:

  • For an Overnight Rise (Recommended for convenience and flavor): Place the dough into a clean, lightly oiled bowl. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent the dough from drying out. Transfer it to the refrigerator and let it rise overnight (8-12 hours). This slow, cold fermentation develops deeper flavors.
  • For an Immediate Rise: If you’re baking the rolls on the same day, preheat your oven to a low 200°F (93°C). While the oven preheats, place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Once the oven reaches temperature, turn it OFF immediately. Place the bowl of dough inside the warm oven, leaving the oven door cracked open slightly. Let the dough rise for approximately 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size. The warm, draft-free environment of the oven provides an ideal setting for rapid yeast activity.

While your dough is undergoing its first rise, this is an excellent opportunity to start preparing the pecan pie filling, as it needs ample time to cool before it can be spread onto the dough.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Preparing the Pecan Pie and Cinnamon Pecan Fillings

These dual fillings are what truly set these pecan pie cinnamon rolls apart, offering layers of rich flavor and texture. Here’s how to prepare them:

STEP 1: Heat the Pecan Pie Filling Ingredients. In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the Wholesome Organic Fair Trade Dark Brown Sugar, ground cinnamon, heavy cream, and the chopped pecans. Stir everything together until well combined.

STEP 2: Cook the Pie Filling. Continue to cook the pecan mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it begins to bubble gently. Once bubbling, reduce the heat slightly and continue to cook for another 4-5 minutes, allowing the mixture to thicken and the flavors to meld beautifully. It should resemble a gooey, caramel-like consistency.

Pecan pie filling cooling in a bowl, ready to be spread.

STEP 3: Chill the Pecan Pie Filling. Immediately pour the cooked pecan pie filling into a heatproof bowl. Place it in the refrigerator to cool completely. Chilling is essential as it will make the filling easier to spread and prevent it from melting too quickly into the dough during assembly.

STEP 4: Prepare the Cinnamon Pecan Filling. In a separate small bowl, use a hand mixer to beat the room-temperature unsalted butter on high speed until it becomes light and fluffy, usually for 1-2 minutes. Add the Wholesome Organic Fair Trade Dark Brown Sugar and ground cinnamon. Continue beating until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This will be the base layer of flavorful spice for your rolls.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Assembly and Baking Your Pecan Pie Cinnamon Rolls

Now comes the exciting part – assembling and baking your delectable pecan pie cinnamon rolls!

STEP 1: Roll Out the Dough. Lightly flour a clean work surface and your rolling pin. Take your risen dough and roll it into a large rectangle, aiming for approximately ¼ inch thickness. The dimensions don’t need to be exact, but ensure it’s an even rectangle for consistent rolls.

STEP 2: Spread the Fillings. First, use an offset spatula to evenly spread the prepared cinnamon pecan filling over the entire surface of the dough, extending it right to the edges. This ensures every bite is packed with spice and sweetness. Next, gently spread the cooled pecan pie filling evenly over the top of the cinnamon filling. Be careful not to press too hard, as the cooled pecan pie filling can be a bit thick.

Rolling out the cinnamon roll dough on a floured surface.
Spreading the rich cinnamon filling smoothly over the dough.
Layers of gooey pecan pie filling spread over the cinnamon-coated dough.

STEP 3: Roll and Slice the Log. Starting from one of the short sides of your dough rectangle, carefully and snugly roll the dough into a tight log. Once rolled, use a sharp serrated knife or a piece of unflavored dental floss to neatly trim off the uneven ends. Then, cut the log into 9 equal pieces, each approximately 1 to 1.5 inches thick. A serrated knife helps prevent squishing the delicate layers.

STEP 4: Second Rise. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with baking spray (or butter it generously). Arrange the cut cinnamon rolls in a single layer within the prepared dish, leaving a little space between each roll as they will expand. Cover the dish with a clean kitchen towel and let the rolls rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 20 minutes. This second, shorter rise will make them extra fluffy.

Raw cinnamon rolls arranged in a baking pan, ready for their second rise.
Golden-brown, freshly baked cinnamon rolls in a pan, still warm from the oven.

STEP 5: Bake to Golden Perfection. After the rolls have completed their second rise, gently pour heavy cream over the uncooked cinnamon rolls in the pan. This step is a secret to an extra-tender and moist texture. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 27-29 minutes, or until their tops are beautifully golden brown and the centers are cooked through. The exact baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven.

STEP 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Glaze. While the rolls are baking, start on the irresistible cream cheese glaze. In a small bowl, combine the room-temperature cream cheese and unsalted butter. Using a hand mixer, beat them together on high speed for about 2 minutes, until the mixture is light, fluffy, and perfectly smooth. Ensuring these ingredients are at room temperature prevents lumps.

STEP 7: Mix the Icing. Add the sifted Wholesome Organic Fair Trade Powdered Confectioners Sugar to the cream cheese and butter mixture. Mix on low speed initially to avoid a “sugar cloud,” then increase to medium until the icing is completely smooth and free of any lumps. Finally, incorporate the pure vanilla extract and milk, mixing again until the glaze reaches a perfectly smooth, pourable consistency.

STEP 8: Glaze and Serve. The moment your cinnamon rolls emerge from the oven, hot and fragrant, it’s time for the final touch! While they are still warm, generously spread the prepared cream cheese glaze over the entire pan of rolls using a spoon or an offset spatula. The warmth of the rolls will allow the glaze to melt slightly, seeping into every crevice and creating a truly decadent topping. For an added touch of nutty flavor and visual appeal, top them with extra chopped pecans.

Expert Baking Tips for Flawless Pecan Pie Cinnamon Rolls

Mastering yeast dough can feel intimidating, but with these expert tips, you’ll achieve perfect pecan pie cinnamon rolls every time:

  • Precision in Flour Measurement: One of the most common baking mistakes is incorrectly measuring flour, which can lead to dry, dense rolls. Always use the “spoon and level” method: spoon flour into your measuring cup until it’s overflowing, then use the back of a knife to level off the excess. Never scoop your measuring cup directly into the flour bag, as this compacts the flour and results in using too much. For ultimate accuracy, consider using a kitchen scale to measure flour by weight (typically 1 cup of all-purpose flour is about 120-125 grams).
  • Ensure Yeast Vitality: Active yeast is the heart of any risen dough. Always check the expiration date on your yeast packet; old yeast will not activate. Beyond freshness, the temperature of your milk is critical. If the milk is too hot (above 115°F/46°C), it will kill the yeast. If it’s too cold (below 105°F/40°C), it will dramatically slow down the activation process, preventing a proper rise. Aim for that sweet spot of 110°F (43°C). Look for a foamy layer after 10 minutes, which confirms your yeast is alive and well.
  • Overnight Chilling for Flavor and Convenience: While the recipe provides an option for an immediate rise, chilling your assembled rolls overnight offers significant advantages. The slow, cold fermentation in the refrigerator not only deepens the dough’s flavor, resulting in a more complex taste, but it also makes your morning baking incredibly easy. You can wake up, pull the pan from the fridge, allow the rolls a short final rise at room temperature, and then bake them fresh for an amazing breakfast.
  • Room Temperature Ingredients for Uniformity: For ingredients like butter, eggs, and cream cheese, bringing them to room temperature (typically 1-2 hours out of the fridge) ensures they emulsify properly with other ingredients. Cold butter creates lumps, and cold eggs can seize up other ingredients, leading to an inconsistent batter or dough.
  • Don’t Over-Knead: While kneading is crucial for gluten development, over-kneading can make the dough tough. When using a stand mixer, stick to the recommended 5 minutes. If kneading by hand, pay attention to the dough’s elasticity – it should be smooth, pliable, and spring back when gently poked.
Close-up of a perfectly glazed pecan pie cinnamon roll, showing its soft texture and generous topping.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Pecan Pie Cinnamon Rolls

Do the rolls have to rise in the oven?

While a warm oven (briefly preheated and then turned off with the door cracked) provides an ideal, consistent environment for the rolls to rise fastest, it’s not strictly mandatory. If your oven is occupied, you can certainly let the dough rise at room temperature, provided your house isn’t particularly cold. Look for a naturally warmer spot in your kitchen. However, for the best and most consistent results, especially if you’re in a hurry, the warm oven method is highly recommended. Alternatively, rising the dough overnight in the refrigerator is also an excellent method that yields delicious results and offers great flexibility.

What is the best way to reheat cinnamon rolls?

To enjoy your pecan pie cinnamon rolls as if they just came out of the oven:

  • For a single roll: Place it on a microwave-safe plate and reheat for 15-25 seconds until it’s warmed through and gooey. Microwave strengths vary, so adjust the time as needed.
  • For a whole tray: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once hot, turn off the oven and place the baking dish of rolls inside for about 5-10 minutes, or until they are heated through and soft again. This method helps maintain their tender texture without drying them out. Enjoy your deliciously warm rolls!
Can I pre-bake these cinnamon rolls?

Yes, you can absolutely pre-bake these rolls for ultimate convenience! Follow all the instructions up to the baking step. Instead of baking them for the full 27-29 minutes, bake them for only 10 minutes. At this point, they will be lightly set but not fully golden. Remove them from the oven, let them cool slightly, then cover and chill them in the refrigerator. The next morning, you can complete the remaining bake time (approximately 17-19 minutes) in a preheated oven until they are golden brown and cooked through. This method is perfect for preparing ahead for a fresh morning treat.

Recipe Variations to Customize Your Pecan Pie Cinnamon Rolls

These pecan pie cinnamon rolls are fantastic as is, but here are a few ideas to customize them to your liking:

  • Pecan Topping on Top of Glaze: If you find it challenging to spread the pecan pie filling within the rolls without it squeezing out, or if you simply prefer a more prominent pecan flavor and texture on top, you can reserve some of the pecan pie filling to drizzle over the cream cheese icing after the rolls are baked and glazed. This creates a beautiful visual and an extra layer of nutty goodness.
  • Cinnamon Sugar Topping (Instead of Cream Cheese Glaze): For those who prefer a less rich or dairy-free topping, a simple cinnamon sugar coating can be a wonderful alternative to the cream cheese frosting. You can follow the topping instructions from these apple cider cinnamon rolls, which typically involve brushing with melted butter and then sprinkling generously with a cinnamon-sugar mixture.
  • Add a Caramel Drizzle: For an extra layer of decadence, consider drizzling a warm caramel sauce over the rolls, either before or after the cream cheese glaze. This would enhance the rich, butterscotch notes of the pecan pie filling even further.

Special Tools for Baking Success

While many kitchen tools are versatile, a few specialized items can make baking these pecan pie cinnamon rolls even easier and more enjoyable:

  • Baking Spray with Flour: I highly recommend using a nonstick baking spray that contains flour. This ensures your delicate cinnamon rolls don’t stick to the pan, allowing for easy removal and beautifully intact pastries.
  • Offset Spatula: An offset spatula is an invaluable tool for bakers. Its angled blade makes it incredibly easy to evenly spread fillings and glazes over dough and baked goods, ensuring a smooth, consistent layer without tearing.
  • 9×13 Inch Casserole Pan: While any 9×13 inch baking pan will do, I particularly love using a casserole pan for cinnamon rolls. Its slightly higher sides help contain any overflowing filling and create a cozy environment for the rolls to puff up against each other, resulting in softer sides.
  • Rolling Pin: A reliable rolling pin is essential for rolling out the dough evenly and consistently. Whether you prefer a traditional French-style pin or one with handles, any good quality rolling pin will serve you well.
  • Stand Mixer with Dough Hook: While not strictly essential (hand kneading instructions are provided), a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment significantly simplifies the kneading process, saving you time and effort and ensuring consistent gluten development.
A single pecan pie cinnamon roll served on a white plate, showcasing its golden crust and creamy glaze.

Storing and Freezing Your Pecan Pie Cinnamon Rolls

Proper storage is key to enjoying your pecan pie cinnamon rolls for days to come:

Store these delectable pecan pie cinnamon rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will remain fresh and delicious for up to 5 days. For the best experience, always reheat them gently in the microwave until warm and gooey before serving.

These pecan pie cinnamon rolls are also excellent for freezing, offering two convenient options:

  1. Freeze the Unbaked Rolls: After shaping and cutting the rolls (before the second rise), arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and flash freeze until solid. Then, transfer the frozen rolls to an airtight freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 30 days. When ready to bake, thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight, then allow them to come to room temperature and complete their second rise before baking as directed. While they might not rise quite as much as fresh dough, they will still yield wonderfully soft and flavorful rolls.
  2. Freeze the Already Baked Rolls: Once the rolls have baked and cooled (you can even glaze them beforehand if you wish), wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 30 days. To enjoy, thaw them at room temperature for about an hour, or reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warm.
Side view of a batch of pecan pie cinnamon rolls, showing their height and layered filling.

Other Cinnamon Roll Recipes to Try

  • Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls
  • Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls
  • Classic Cinnamon Rolls

Discover More Autumnal Delights!

If you love the cozy flavors of fall, you won’t want to miss these other seasonal favorites:

  • Reese’s Cup Peanut Butter Cookies
  • Pumpkin Caramel Cookies
  • Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
  • Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
  • Cherry Pie Bars

Did you fall in love with this recipe? Please remember to leave a STAR REVIEW below! Your feedback helps other bakers discover and enjoy these amazing pecan pie cinnamon rolls. Don’t forget to tag me on Instagram @stephaniesweettreats with your creations. For more sweet ideas and baking inspiration, make sure to follow me on Pinterest. Happy baking!

Top view of pecan pie cinnamon rolls.

Pecan Pie Cinnamon Rolls

Stephanie Rutherford

These pecan pie cinnamon rolls are super soft rolls with cinnamon pecan filling. They are filled with pecan pie filling and topped with cream cheese icing.

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Prep Time: 45 mins
Cook Time: 28 mins
Resting Time: 1 hr 20 mins
Total Time: 2 hrs 33 mins
Servings: 9 rolls

Ingredients

Dough

  • 1 cup Milk, warmed to 110℉
  • 2 packets Active dry yeast, 14 grams or 4 1/2 tsp
  • 2 Large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 4 1/2 cups All-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup Wholesome Organic Fair Trade Cane Sugar
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 10 TBSP Unsalted butter, room temperature and cubed

Pecan Cinnamon Filling

  • 1/2 cup Unsalted butter, room temperature
  • 3/4 cup Wholesome Organic Fair Trade Dark Brown Sugar
  • 1 TBSP Ground cinnamon
  • 1 1/2 cups Chopped pecans
  • 1/2 cup Heavy cream

Pecan Pie Filling

  • 3 TBSP Unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup Wholesome Organic Fair Trade Dark Brown Sugar
  • 1 tsp Ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup Heavy cream
  • 1 cup Chopped pecans

Cream Cheese Icing

  • 4 oz Cream cheese, room temperature
  • 4 TBSP Unsalted butter, room temperature
  • 1 cup Wholesome Organic Fair Trade Powdered Confectioners Sugar, sifted
  • 1 tsp Pure vanilla extract
  • 1 TBSP Milk
  • Chopped pecans, for decoration on top

Instructions

Dough

  1. Heat the milk in the microwave for a minute until warmed to 110℉. Sprinkle both packets of yeast over the milk. Let it sit for 10 minutes. (Ingredients: Milk, Active dry yeast)
  2. In a large bowl, mix the flour, cane sugar, and salt together. Add in the cubed butter. Use a pastry kneader or your hands to knead the butter into the flour. Do this until the butter is the size of a pea. (Ingredients: Wholesome Organic Fair Trade Cane Sugar, Salt, Unsalted butter, All-purpose flour)
  3. Add in the milk/yeast and lightly beaten eggs to the dry ingredients. Use a stand mixer with a dough hook. Mix on low speed until a dough starts to form. *Making by hand instructions are in recipe notes. (Ingredients: Large eggs)
  4. Switch to medium speed and knead for 5 minutes.
  5. For making right away: Preheat the oven to 200℉. Cover bowl with kitchen towel. Turn off the oven, place the bowl in the oven, and crack open the door. Let rise for 1 hour.
    For overnight: Cover bowl with foil or plastic wrap. Place in the fridge to rise overnight.

Pecan Pie Filling

  1. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add in the brown sugar, cinnamon, heavy cream, and pecans. (Ingredients: Unsalted butter, Wholesome Organic Fair Trade Dark Brown Sugar, Ground cinnamon, Heavy cream, Chopped pecans)
  2. Heat until it starts to bubble. Then, cook for about 4-5 minutes.
  3. Pour the pecan pie filling into a bowl and chill in the fridge.

Cinnamon Pecan Filling & Assembly

  1. In a small bowl, beat the butter on high speed until fluffy. Add in the brown sugar and cinnamon. Beat until smooth. (Ingredients: Unsalted butter, Wholesome Organic Fair Trade Dark Brown Sugar, Ground cinnamon, Chopped pecans)
  2. Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface using a rolling pin. Roll into a large rectangle about 1/4-inch thick.
  3. Spread the cinnamon filling over the dough. Use an offset icing spatula and spread to the edges. Spread the pecan pie filling over the cinnamon filling.
  4. Starting on the short side, roll into a log.
  5. Use a serrated knife or unflavored dental floss to cut the uneven ends off. Then, cut into 9 rolls.
  6. Spray a 9X13 casserole dish with baking nonstick spray. Place the rolls evenly into the dish. Cover with a towel and let it rise for 20 minutes. Once done rising, pour the heavy cream over the rolls. (Ingredients: Heavy cream)
  7. Preheat the oven to 375℉. Bake for 27-29 minutes until the top of the rolls are golden brown.

Cream Cheese Icing

  1. In a small bowl using a hand mixer, beat the cream cheese and butter on high speed for 2 minutes. (Ingredients: Cream cheese, Unsalted butter)
  2. Then, add in the confectioners sugar and mix until smooth. Add in the vanilla and milk. Mix until smooth. (Ingredients: Wholesome Organic Fair Trade Powdered Confectioners Sugar, Pure vanilla extract, Milk)
  3. Use a spoon to spread the icing over the cinnamon rolls. Topped with chopped pecans. (Ingredients: Chopped pecans)

Notes

Flour: Make sure flour is spooned and leveled or use a kitchen scale. Compacted flour can dry out the rolls.

Dairy Ingredients: Pull out dairy ingredients (butter, eggs, cream cheese) 2 hours before baking to ensure they are at room temperature.

Making by hand:

  • Mix the wet ingredients into the dry by using a rubber spatula. Switch to using your hands to mix until a dough starts to form.
  • Place dough on a lightly floured surface. Knead using your hands for 5-8 minutes.
  • It is done when you can spread the dough apart thinly using your fingers. Hold the dough to the light. If you can see light through it without it tearing, then it is sufficiently kneaded.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Calories: 919kcal, Carbohydrates: 90g, Protein: 11g, Fat: 60g, Saturated Fat: 25g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 8g, Monounsaturated Fat: 22g, Trans Fat: 1g, Cholesterol: 104mg, Sodium: 290mg, Potassium: 312mg, Fiber: 5g, Sugar: 39g, Vitamin A: 1273IU, Vitamin C: 1mg, Calcium: 126mg, Iron: 4mg

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