Published September 1, 2004.
In developing our sticky buns recipe, we tested a series of ingredient tests and settled on a buttermilk base that left the buns' flavor and texture rich but not heavy and the crumb tender and light. Six tablespoons of melted butter and four eggs later, the dough was sweet and moist with substantial chew. For a spiced sweet and assertive filling, we used brown rather than granulated sugar because of its superior texture and deep color. Crowned with a toasted pecan topping—butter, light brown sugar, corn syrup, and toasted, chopped pecans—the sticky buns achieved greatness.
This recipe has four components: the dough that is shaped into buns, the filling that creates the swirl in the shaped buns, the caramel glaze that bakes in the bottom of the baking dish along with the buns, and the pecan topping that garnishes the buns once baked. Although the ingredient list may look long, note that many ingredients are repeated. Leftover sticky buns can be wrapped in foil or plastic wrap and refrigerated for up to 3 days, but they should be warmed through before serving. They reheat quickly in a microwave oven (for 2 buns, about 2 minutes at 50 percent power works well); they can also be put into a 325-degree oven for about 8 minutes.
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