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When the leaves begin to turn and the air fills with the crisp scent of autumn, there’s nothing quite like the comfort of fresh-baked sticky buns. Apple Cider Sticky Buns combine the rich, gooey sweetness of traditional sticky buns with the seasonal charm of apple cider, creating a delightful treat that’s perfect for cozy mornings or festive gatherings. This recipe offers a unique spin on a classic favorite, making it an ideal choice for those looking to embrace the flavors of fall.

Apple Cider Sticky Buns

Embrace the flavors of fall with these delicious Apple Cider Sticky Buns! Combining the sweet and tangy essence of apple cider with buttery, gooey goodness, this cozy recipe is perfect for autumn mornings or festive gatherings. Made using seasonal ingredients, these sticky buns are easy to make and will fill your home with the warm scent of cinnamon and apples. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven for a comforting treat everyone will love!

Ingredients
  

For the Dough:

4 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 cup warm apple cider (110°F)

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

2 large eggs

For the Filling:

1/2 cup brown sugar, packed

1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 cup chopped apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)

1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

For the Sticky Topping:

1 cup brown sugar, packed

1/2 cup unsalted butter

1/4 cup apple cider

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions
 

Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, sugar, yeast, salt, and cinnamon. In another bowl, whisk together the warm apple cider, melted butter, and eggs. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture, stirring until combined.

    Knead the Dough: Gradually add the remaining flour, 1/2 cup at a time, until a soft dough forms. Transfer to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

      Prepare the Filling: In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon. Roll out the risen dough on a floured surface to a rectangle approximately 1/4 inch thick. Spread softened butter over the dough and sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly. Add the chopped apples and nuts if using, spreading them evenly across the dough.

        Roll and Cut the Dough: Starting from one long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased 9x13 inch baking pan.

          Make the Sticky Topping: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, butter, apple cider, and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is melted and well combined, then pour this mixture over the arranged dough pieces in the baking pan.

            Second Rise: Cover the pan with a cloth and allow the rolls to rest for an additional 30 minutes while preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).

              Bake: Once the dough has risen, bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

                Cool and Serve: Allow the sticky buns to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before inverting onto a serving dish. Drizzle any extra sticky topping over the buns and serve warm.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 1 hour 30 minutes | 2 hours | 12 servings.