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Maple Pecan Cinnamon Rolls

These Maple Pecan Cinnamon Rolls are soft, fluffy, and bursting with warm cinnamon, crunchy pecans, and a luscious maple glaze—perfect for a cozy brunch treat!
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Course: Breakfast, Brunch, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Cinnamon Rolls, Easy, Maple, No-Yeast, Pecan, Quick, Sweet
Servings: 9 servings

Ingredients

For the Dough:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 1 large egg

For the Filling:

  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans
  • melted unsalted butter optional, for brushing dough before filling

For the Maple Glaze:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons milk for glaze

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

  • In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons sugar, 1 tablespoon baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
  • In a separate bowl, combine 1/2 cup whole milk, 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter, and 1 large egg.
  • Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir until a soft dough forms. It will be slightly sticky but manageable.

Roll Out the Dough

  • Lightly flour your work surface and roll the dough into a rectangle about 12 inches by 8 inches, keeping the thickness even.

Add the Filling

  • Mix 1/2 cup packed brown sugar with 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon and 1/2 cup chopped pecans.
  • Optionally, brush the dough lightly with melted butter before sprinkling the filling evenly over the rolled dough.

Roll and Cut

  • Starting at one long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log.
  • Use a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss to slice the log into 9 even rolls.
  • Place the rolls cut-side up in a greased 8x8 or 9x9 inch baking pan, leaving a little space between each.

Bake

  • Bake the rolls at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.

Make the Maple Glaze

  • While the rolls bake, whisk together 1 cup powdered sugar, 1/4 cup pure maple syrup, and 2 tablespoons milk until smooth and pourable.

Finish and Serve

  • Drizzle the warm rolls generously with the maple glaze and serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowls
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Whisk or Fork
  • Rolling Pin
  • Baking Pan
  • Sharp knife or dental floss
  • Pastry brush (optional)

Notes

  • Prepare the dough and assemble the rolls the night before for a quick breakfast; bake straight from the fridge, adding extra baking time if needed.
  • Substitute dairy and eggs with plant-based alternatives for a vegan or allergy-friendly version.
  • Use walnuts or sunflower seeds instead of pecans if you have nut allergies.
  • Ensure the baking pan is well greased and avoid overcrowding to prevent soggy bottoms.
  • Reheat leftover rolls gently and reapply the glaze for a fresh-baked taste.