Indulge in the tropical decadence of Coconutty Orange Apricot Sticky Buns, a flavor-packed twist on classic cinnamon rolls. These tender, homemade buns are filled with a luscious blend of sweetened shredded coconut, vibrant orange zest, warm cinnamon, and juicy dried apricots, all rolled up in a soft, buttery dough. A gooey orange-infused caramel sauce at the bottom of the pan adds sticky-sweet perfection to every bite, while a silky cream cheese frosting takes these buns over the top. Ideal for brunch, special occasions, or simply treating yourself, these sticky buns effortlessly combine citrusy brightness, tropical flair, and comforting sweetness in one irresistible bake.
In a small saucepan, heat the milk and 2 tablespoons of the butter over medium heat until the butter is melted and the mixture is warm but not hot (about 110°F).
Pour the milk mixture into a large mixing bowl. Stir in the granulated sugar and sprinkle the yeast over the top. Let sit for 5-10 minutes, or until the mixture is foamy.
Add 2 cups of the flour, the salt, and the egg to the bowl. Mix until combined.
Gradually add the remaining 1 1/4 cups of flour and knead the dough (by hand or using a dough hook on a stand mixer) for 8–10 minutes, until smooth and elastic. If the dough is sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Meanwhile, prepare the filling. In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, shredded coconut, cinnamon, and orange zest. Set aside.
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it into a large rectangle, about 16x10 inches.
Spread the remaining 2 tablespoons of softened butter evenly across the dough. Sprinkle the brown sugar mixture over the top and scatter the chopped apricots evenly.
Starting from the long side, tightly roll up the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal.
Using a sharp knife or dental floss, cut the log into 12 equal pieces.
Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream, orange juice, and 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, then pour this mixture into the bottom of the baking dish.
Arrange the rolls cut-side up in the prepared baking dish. Cover with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake the buns for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
While the buns bake, make the cream cheese frosting. In a medium bowl, beat together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Let the buns cool slightly before spreading the cream cheese frosting generously over the top. Sprinkle with extra shredded coconut if desired.
Serve warm and enjoy the gooey, tropical delight of coconut, orange, and apricot flavors!
Calories |
4828 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 168.5 g | 216% | |
| Saturated Fat | 107.2 g | 536% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 514 mg | 171% | |
| Sodium | 3036 mg | 132% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 774.9 g | 282% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 40.2 g | 144% | |
| Total Sugars | 411.8 g | ||
| Protein | 76.0 g | 152% | |
| Vitamin D | 3.7 mcg | 19% | |
| Calcium | 764 mg | 59% | |
| Iron | 25.8 mg | 143% | |
| Potassium | 3379 mg | 72% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.