Sticky Bun Cake: A Heavenly Dessert for Every Occasion
If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that combines the gooey goodness of sticky buns with the elegance of a cake, look no further than the Sticky Bun Cake. This decadent treat is a perfect blend of fluffy cake, creamy filling, and a rich caramel glaze that will leave your taste buds begging for more. Featured in 9 Mesmerizing Cake Recipes, this Sticky Bun Cake is a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.
In this post, we’ll dive deep into the recipe, preparation tips, and why this Sticky Bun Cake deserves a spot in your dessert repertoire. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this guide will help you create a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Why Sticky Bun Cake is a Crowd-Pleaser
The Sticky Bun Cake is a unique twist on traditional sticky buns, combining the best elements of a cake and a pastry. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
- Gooey Caramel Glaze: The rich, buttery caramel glaze is the star of the show, adding a sticky sweetness that’s irresistible.
- Creamy Filling: A luscious cream cheese filling adds a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the caramel.
- Fluffy Texture: The tender, fluffy cake base is made from simple ingredients like white bread, making it easy to prepare.
- Pecan Crunch: Toasted pecans add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to every bite.
- Versatility: Serve it warm with vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert or enjoy it as a sweet breakfast treat.
Sticky Bun Cake Recipe
Total Time
1 hour 10 minutes
Prep Time
30 minutes
Cook Time
40 minutes
Ingredients (for 6 servings)
- 24 oz cream cheese (675 g), 3 packages
- ½ cup powdered sugar (80 g)
- ½ cup milk (120 mL)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, divided
- 35 slices white bread
- 3 sticks butter, divided
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1 cup brown sugar (220 g), packed
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup honey (85 g)
- 1 cup pecans (125 g)
- Vanilla ice cream, for serving (optional)
Preparation
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 325˚F (165˚C). - Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling:
In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Use a whisk or hand mixer to blend until smooth. Set aside. - Prepare the Bread Strips:
On a cutting board, remove the crusts from the white bread slices. Lay out 5 slices of bread so they slightly overlap, then press the edges together to adhere. Repeat this process until you have 7 strips of 5 slices each. - Make the Cinnamon Butter Mixture:
In a small bowl, melt ¾ cup of butter. Add the granulated sugar and cinnamon, stirring until well combined. - Assemble the Cake Layers:
Brush the cinnamon butter mixture onto one strip of bread. Spread a generous layer of the cream cheese filling over the buttered bread. Repeat this process with the remaining strips. - Roll the Bread Strips:
Roll up one strip of bread, then take that roll and roll it onto another strip. Continue until all the strips are rolled into one large spiral. - Prepare the Caramel Glaze:
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the remaining ¾ cup of butter, brown sugar, salt, remaining teaspoon of vanilla extract, and honey. Stir until melted and smooth. Remove from heat. - Assemble the Cake:
Pour ⅔ of the caramel mixture into an 8-inch (20 cm) round cake pan. Sprinkle the pecans evenly over the caramel. Place the bread roll on top of the caramel and pecans. Pour the remaining caramel over the top of the roll. - Bake:
Bake for 40 minutes, or until the top is golden and crisp. - Invert and Serve:
Once baked, place a large plate over the cake pan. Using oven mitts, carefully invert the cake onto the plate. Let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. - Serve and Enjoy:
Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
The History of Sticky Buns and Their Evolution into Sticky Bun Cake
Sticky buns have a rich history that dates back centuries, with roots in European baking traditions. Originating in Germany, where they were known as Schnecken (meaning “snails” due to their spiral shape), these sweet rolls were brought to America by German immigrants in the 18th century. Over time, they evolved into the sticky buns we know and love today, characterized by their gooey caramel glaze and nutty topping.
The transformation of sticky buns into a cake format is a more recent innovation, blending the classic flavors of the pastry with the structure and presentation of a cake. This evolution allows for a more shareable and visually impressive dessert, perfect for modern gatherings. The Sticky Bun Cake retains all the beloved elements of traditional sticky buns—soft, fluffy dough, a creamy filling, and a rich caramel glaze—but presents them in a way that’s both elegant and indulgent.
This modern twist on a classic treat has gained popularity in recent years, thanks to its versatility and crowd-pleasing appeal. Whether served as a dessert or a brunch centerpiece, the Sticky Bun Cake bridges the gap between nostalgia and innovation, making it a favorite among bakers and food enthusiasts alike.
Tips for Perfecting Your Sticky Bun Cake
Creating the perfect Sticky Bun Cake requires attention to detail and a few expert tips to ensure success. Here are some key pointers to help you master this recipe:
- Choose the Right Bread: The foundation of your Sticky Bun Cake is the bread. Opt for fresh, soft white bread with a fine crumb. Avoid bread that’s too dense or dry, as it won’t roll or bake as well.
- Don’t Overfill: While it’s tempting to add extra cream cheese filling or caramel, overfilling can make the cake difficult to roll and may cause it to fall apart during baking. Stick to the recommended amounts for the best results.
- Toast the Pecans: Toasting the pecans before adding them to the caramel enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch. Simply spread them on a baking sheet and toast in the oven at 350˚F (175˚C) for 5-7 minutes.
- Use a Non-Stick Pan: To ensure your cake releases easily after baking, use a non-stick cake pan or line your pan with parchment paper. This will prevent the caramel from sticking and make flipping the cake a breeze.
- Let It Cool Slightly: While it’s tempting to dig in right away, allowing the cake to cool for 10 minutes after baking helps the caramel set slightly, making it easier to slice and serve.
By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a Sticky Bun Cake that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Creative Variations of Sticky Bun Cake
One of the best things about the Sticky Bun Cake is its versatility. While the classic recipe is undeniably delicious, there are countless ways to put your own spin on this dessert. Here are a few creative variations to try:
- Chocolate Lover’s Sticky Bun Cake: Add a layer of chocolate spread or melted chocolate to the cream cheese filling for a decadent twist. You can also sprinkle chocolate chips over the caramel glaze before baking.
- Fruit-Infused Sticky Bun Cake: Incorporate dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, or apricots into the filling for a burst of sweetness and texture. Alternatively, top the cake with fresh berries or a fruit compote before serving.
- Spiced Sticky Bun Cake: Enhance the flavor profile by adding spices like nutmeg, cardamom, or ginger to the cinnamon butter mixture. This variation is perfect for the holiday season.
- Savory-Sweet Sticky Bun Cake: For a unique twist, add a sprinkle of sea salt or a drizzle of salted caramel over the finished cake. The contrast between sweet and salty is sure to impress.
- Mini Sticky Bun Cakes: Instead of making one large cake, divide the dough into smaller portions and bake them in muffin tins. These individual servings are perfect for parties or gifting.
Nutritional Information
While the Sticky Bun Cake is undeniably indulgent, it’s a dessert meant to be savored in moderation. Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional info per serving:
- Calories: 850
- Fat: 55g
- Carbohydrates: 75g
- Protein: 12g
- Sugar: 45g
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Sticky Bun Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s an experience. From the moment you slice into the gooey caramel glaze to the first bite of the tender, fluffy cake, every element is designed to delight. It’s perfect for:
- Holiday Gatherings: Impress your guests with this unique dessert.
- Brunch: Pair it with coffee for a sweet start to your day.
- Special Occasions: Celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, or any milestone with this show-stopping cake.
Sticky Bun Cake: A Heavenly Dessert for Every Occasion
Indulge in the heavenly delight of Sticky Bun Cake, a perfect treat to satisfy your sweet cravings. This dessert features a gooey caramel glaze, tender, fluffy cake, and a delightful crunch from pecans. It’s a show-stopper that will have everyone asking for seconds. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra touch of decadence.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Ingredients
- 24 oz (675 g) cream cheese (3 packages)
- ½ cup (80 g) powdered sugar
- ½ cup (120 mL) milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, divided
- 35 slices white bread
- 3 sticks butter, divided
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1 cup (220 g) brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup (85 g) honey
- 1 cup (125 g) pecans
- Vanilla ice cream, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). - Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling:
In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Use a whisk or hand mixer to blend until smooth. Set aside. - Prepare the Bread Strips:
Cut the crusts off the bread slices. Lay out 5 slices of bread slightly overlapping, pressing the edges together to adhere. Repeat to make 7 strips of 5 slices each. - Make the Cinnamon Butter:
In a small bowl, melt ¾ cup of butter. Stir in the granulated sugar and cinnamon until well combined. - Assemble the Cake Layers:
Brush the cinnamon butter mixture onto one strip of bread. Spread a layer of the cream cheese filling over the buttered bread. Repeat with the remaining strips. - Roll the Bread Strips:
Roll up one strip of bread, then continue rolling it onto another strip. Repeat until all strips are rolled into one large spiral. - Prepare the Caramel Glaze:
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the remaining ¾ cup of butter, brown sugar, salt, remaining 1 teaspoon of vanilla, and honey. Stir until melted and smooth. Remove from heat. - Assemble the Cake:
Pour ⅔ of the caramel mixture into an 8-inch (20 cm) round cake pan. Sprinkle the pecans evenly over the caramel. Place the bread roll on top of the pecans and caramel. Pour the remaining caramel over the top of the roll. - Bake:
Bake for 40 minutes, or until the top is golden and crisp. - Invert the Cake:
Once baked, place a large plate over the cake pan. Using oven mitts, carefully invert the cake onto the plate. Remove the pan. - Cool and Serve:
Let the cake cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Notes
- Use fresh, soft bread for easier rolling.
- For a nut-free version, omit the pecans or replace them with shredded coconut.
- Make sure the caramel is evenly distributed for a gooey, consistent texture.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Nutrition
- Calories: 850 kcal per serving
- Sugar: 50 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 55 g
- Saturated Fat: 28 g
- Carbohydrates: 85 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 12 g
Final Thoughts
The Sticky Bun Cake is a dessert that combines simplicity with indulgence. With its rich caramel glaze, creamy filling, and fluffy texture, it’s a treat that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion or just because, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.