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Hawaiian Rolls Sticky Buns: The Ultimate Sweet & Savory Recipe

Easy and irresistible sticky buns made with Hawaiian sweet rolls, a rich homemade caramel sauce, and optional pecans or walnuts. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 (12-count) packages Hawaiian sweet rolls
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
  • 1 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt the butter over medium-low heat.
  2. Add the packed light brown sugar. Stir constantly with a wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture is smooth (3-5 minutes).
  3. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly until fully incorporated and the sauce is smooth and glossy.
  4. Stir in the honey and vanilla extract. Continue stirring for another minute or two.
  5. Add the sea salt. Stir well to incorporate.
  6. Reduce the heat to low and let the caramel sauce simmer for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken slightly and coat the back of a spoon.
  7. Generously grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter.
  8. Pour about half of the prepared caramel sauce into the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
  9. If using nuts, sprinkle the chopped pecans or walnuts evenly over the caramel sauce in the baking dish.
  10. Place the Hawaiian sweet rolls in a single layer on top of the caramel sauce in the baking dish. Arrange them close together.
  11. Pour the remaining caramel sauce evenly over the tops of the rolls, making sure to coat each one thoroughly.
  12. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  13. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and the caramel sauce is bubbly.
  14. Let the sticky buns cool in the baking dish for about 5-10 minutes after removing them from the oven.
  15. Place a large serving platter or baking sheet over the top of the baking dish. Carefully and quickly invert the baking dish onto the platter.
  16. If any rolls stick, gently loosen them with a spatula.
  17. Serve the sticky buns warm.

Notes

  • Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent the caramel sauce from scorching.
  • Don’t overcook the caramel; it can become hard and brittle.
  • Let the sticky buns cool slightly before inverting to help the caramel set and prevent the buns from falling apart.
  • Sticky buns are best enjoyed warm.
  • Feel free to add other ingredients to your sticky buns, such as raisins, dried cranberries, or chocolate chips.