Caramel Pecan Sticky Buns

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup warm milk
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1 cup pecans, chopped
• 1/2 cup caramel sauce

Directions:

1. In a small bowl, combine warm milk and yeast; let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients; mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
7. In a separate bowl, mix brown sugar, softened butter, and cinnamon to create the filling.
8. Roll out the risen dough into a rectangle on a floured surface; spread the filling evenly on top.
9. Sprinkle chopped pecans over the filling, then roll the dough tightly into a log.
10. Slice the log into 1-inch pieces and place in a greased baking dish.
11. Drizzle caramel sauce over the top and let it rise again for 30 minutes.
12. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
13. Allow to cool slightly before serving.