Description
These Shortcut Caramel Pecan Cinnamon Rolls are an easy and delicious treat combining gooey caramel, crunchy pecans, and classic cinnamon rolls. Using refrigerated cinnamon rolls and a simple homemade caramel sauce, this recipe offers a quick twist on a traditional favorite, perfect for breakfast or dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
Caramel Sauce and Topping
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
- 4 tablespoons light corn syrup
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cup coarsely chopped pecans
Cinnamon Rolls
- 2 (17.5-ounce) cans refrigerated cinnamon rolls (5 per can; recommended Pillsbury Grands Flaky Cinnamon Rolls)
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a 9×13-inch glass or ceramic baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Set it aside to be used later.
- Make the Caramel Sauce: In a small pot over medium heat, combine the butter, heavy cream, brown sugar, light corn syrup, and salt. Stir continuously until the butter melts. Bring the mixture to a brief boil to ensure all the sugar dissolves, then immediately pour it into the prepared baking dish.
- Add Pecans: Sprinkle the coarsely chopped pecans evenly over the caramel sauce in the baking dish, ensuring full coverage.
- Place Cinnamon Rolls: Open the cans of refrigerated cinnamon rolls and set the icing aside. Separate the rolls and place them on top of the caramel-pecan mixture in the dish. It’s normal if the rolls don’t fill the dish entirely, as they will expand while baking, leaving some gaps.
- Bake the Rolls: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cinnamon rolls turn golden brown. Once baked, remove from oven and let the dish rest for about 5 minutes to cool slightly.
- Invert and Serve: Place a large serving platter over the baking dish and carefully invert the cinnamon rolls onto the platter. Be cautious as the caramel will be hot. Using a large dish towel can help protect your hands during this step.
- Add Icing and Serve: Drizzle the cinnamon rolls with the reserved icing from the cans, if desired. Serve warm for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Be careful when inverting the dish as the caramel sauce will be very hot and can cause burns.
- Using a glass or ceramic baking dish is recommended to better handle the heat and caramel.
- You can substitute pecans for other nuts like walnuts if preferred.
- For a lighter version, use light cream or milk instead of heavy cream, but the sauce may be less rich.
- Serve immediately for best gooey texture, as caramel may harden upon cooling.
