Inspired by the warm and welcoming atmosphere of the Southern United States, where pecans are a beloved staple, these Maple Pecan Rolls blend the rich, nutty flavor of toasted pecans with the sweetness of maple syrup. The soft, pillowy dough envelops a delightful filling that combines the essence of the South with a creamy glaze that takes these rolls to the next level. Perfect for a brunch or a cozy family gathering, these rolls will transport you to a charming Southern kitchen filled with the aroma of freshly baked goods.
Ingredients
For the dough:
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
– 1 cup whole milk, warmed
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp salt
For the filling:
– 1 cup pecans, chopped and toasted
– 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
For the cream cheese glaze:
– 4 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tbsp maple syrup
– 1-2 tbsp milk (as needed for consistency)
Instructions
Prepare the dough by combining the warm milk, sugar, and yeast in a large mixing bowl. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy. This step ensures your yeast is active and ready to give your rolls a delightful rise.
Mix in the melted butter, eggs, and salt. Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, stirring until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
While the dough rises, prepare the filling. In a medium bowl, mix the toasted pecans, brown sugar, maple syrup, cinnamon, and softened butter until well combined. This mixture will create a sweet and crunchy center for your rolls.
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Spread the pecan filling evenly over the dough, making sure to cover the entire surface.
Starting from one edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased baking pan, leaving a little space between each roll. Cover the pan with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist!
While the rolls are baking, prepare the cream cheese glaze by whisking together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, maple syrup, and milk in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if necessary.
Once the rolls are done, allow them to cool slightly before drizzling the cream cheese glaze generously over the top. Serve warm and watch as everyone gathers around, eager to enjoy these delightful Maple Pecan Rolls.
These rolls are not just a treat for the taste buds but also a sweet reminder of Southern hospitality. Enjoy the warmth and comfort they bring to your table!