Caramel Sticky Buns

In a bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Stir to dissolve and let it sit for about 5 minutes, until it becomes foamy.
Add the melted butter, egg, egg yolk, and salt. Stir to combine.
Gradually add the flour, 1 cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. Once the dough begins to come together, knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. If you have a stand mixer, you can use the dough hook attachment.
Once the dough is smooth, place it in a greased bowl and cover with a damp cloth. Let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Make the Caramel Topping
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter, brown sugar, heavy cream, and corn syrup. Stir until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture begins to bubble.
Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the caramel thickens slightly.
Remove from heat, stir in the salt and vanilla extract, and set aside.
Pour the caramel mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking pan.
If using pecans, sprinkle them evenly over the caramel layer.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, cinnamon, and softened butter until well combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Buns
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle, about 16×12 inches.
Spread the cinnamon sugar filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
Starting at one long side, tightly roll the dough into a log, then cut it into 12 even slices.
Place the rolls in the prepared baking pan on top of the caramel layer, spacing them out evenly.
Step 5: Second Rise
Cover the pan with a cloth and let the rolls rise for about 30 minutes, or until they have puffed up and filled the pan.
Step 6: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Once the rolls have risen, bake them for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 7: Serve
Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool for 5-10 minutes.
Invert the pan onto a large serving plate or tray, allowing the caramel sauce to drizzle over the buns.
Serve warm and enjoy the gooey, sticky goodness!
Serving and Storage Tips