How to Make Perfect Caramel Rolls Recipe: A Delicious, Sweet Treat

Caramel rolls have an undeniable place in Midwestern baking tradition, particularly in North Dakota, where they originated. These rolls, often referred to as Dakota rolls, are not simply a variation of sticky buns or cinnamon rolls. They are distinct in their use of a sweet, buttery caramel sauce rather than the typical honey-based glaze found in sticky buns.

The humble beginnings of caramel rolls trace back to the early 20th century. They grew in popularity across the Midwest, finding their place in church basements, family gatherings, and local diners. Though they are most closely associated with North Dakota, caramel rolls have spread across the United States, becoming a regional specialty. The name “caramel rolls” is a reflection of the rich, gooey caramel sauce that coats each roll, creating a flavor profile that sets them apart from other sweet rolls. The soft dough, perfectly spiced cinnamon filling, and the luscious caramel sauce make these rolls a favorite treat on holidays and special occasions.

Over the years, caramel rolls have evolved. Some modern recipes incorporate different fillings, such as nuts or fruits, while others experiment with alternative flours to accommodate dietary needs. However, the classic caramel roll remains a symbol of comfort and tradition, with its rich, indulgent flavors that never fail to satisfy.

Key Ingredients: Mastering The Dough for Perfect Texture

Key Ingredients

To create a truly authentic caramel roll, you need to start with the right ingredients. Each element plays a critical role in developing the perfect balance of sweetness, richness, and texture.

Dough:

• 500g bread flour
• 100g unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 200ml milk
• 7g active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 50g granulated sugar

The dough forms the base of the caramel rolls. For a soft, fluffy texture, bread flour is the go-to choice. Bread flour’s higher protein content helps create a light, airy dough that rises beautifully. The addition of butter ensures a tender crumb, while eggs contribute to richness.

Tip: Be sure to properly develop the gluten during mixing, as this helps achieve the ideal dough consistency. This is especially important for caramel rolls, as their dough should have a soft, pillowy texture, unlike denser bread varieties.

Caramel Sauce:

• 200g brown sugar (packed)
• 100g unsalted butter
• 150ml heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

The heart of the caramel roll is its caramel sauce. Unlike sticky buns, where the caramel is often created by caramelizing sugar, caramel rolls use a butterscotch-style sauce. Made with brown sugar, butter, cream, and a touch of vanilla, the sauce is rich and smooth with a balanced sweetness, thanks to the addition of salt.

Tip: Make sure the caramel is not overly sweet. The salt balances the richness of the butter and sugar, preventing the caramel from overwhelming the flavor of the roll.

Filling:

• 150g brown sugar (packed)
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 50g all-purpose flour (optional, for helping the filling adhere)

The filling of a caramel roll is a simple blend of cinnamon and brown sugar, often combined with flour to help it adhere to the dough. The cinnamon provides that classic warmth, while the brown sugar gives the filling its deep, molasses-like sweetness.

Tip: For extra flavor, you can add a bit of nutmeg or cardamom to the filling. This subtle twist will elevate the flavor profile and add depth to your rolls.

The Dough: Achieving Perfect Texture

Making the perfect dough is crucial for any successful caramel roll. The dough needs to be soft, pillowy, and elastic, allowing it to rise to just the right height and create a tender, airy texture when baked. To achieve this, bread flour is the best choice due to its higher protein content, which helps develop gluten.

When making the dough, it’s important to mix it properly. This involves creating a cohesive dough that pulls away from the sides of the mixing bowl, and then gradually adding softened butter in small increments. The butter should be fully incorporated before adding more, ensuring the dough remains soft and smooth. Knead the dough for 8-12 minutes until it passes the “windowpane test”—when stretched thin, it should be translucent without tearing.

Once the dough is ready, place it in a lightly greased bowl and cover it. Allow it to rise for about 1.5-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size. During this time, the yeast will activate, giving the dough its rise and lightness. Patience is key—don’t rush this step, as it directly impacts the texture of the rolls.

Step by step to make the perfect Caramel Rolls

Making the Caramel Sauce

The key to a great caramel roll is undoubtedly the caramel sauce. While many people associate caramel with the process of cooking sugar until it turns golden, traditional caramel rolls use a butterscotch-style sauce that is easier to prepare and has a smooth, creamy consistency. This sauce is poured over the rolls before baking, creating a rich, gooey layer that infuses the dough with flavor.

To make the sauce, start by melting unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add light brown sugar and stir until it dissolves into the butter. Allow the mixture to simmer for a minute or so, helping the sugar to incorporate fully.

Next, add heavy cream, whole milk, and a bit of kosher salt. This combination of dairy creates a velvety texture and a balanced sweetness. Stir the mixture constantly, allowing it to thicken slightly. The addition of vanilla extract and cinnamon will bring out the warm flavors that pair so well with the cinnamon in the rolls. Once the sauce is smooth and fully combined, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool slightly before using it to line the baking pan.

The caramel sauce should be poured into a 13×9-inch baking dish, covering the bottom evenly in a thin layer. Let it cool for at least 30 minutes before adding the dough. This waiting time allows the sauce to set up slightly, ensuring that the caramel will hold its shape as the rolls bake.

Rolling and Shaping the Rolls

Now that you have your dough and caramel sauce prepared, it’s time to roll and shape the caramel rolls.

1. Prepare the Filling: In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, cinnamon, and a little bread flour. This flour helps absorb excess moisture and ensures the filling adheres well to the dough. Mix the ingredients together thoroughly.
2. Rolling the Dough: Punch down the dough after its first rise and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll the dough into a rectangle about 16×14 inches, roughly ¼ inch thick. The thickness of the dough is important as it affects how the rolls rise and bake.Spread softened unsalted butter evenly over the dough, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges. Generously sprinkle the brown sugar-cinnamon mixture over the butter and press it gently into the dough to help it stick.
3. Shaping the Rolls: Starting from one of the long edges of the rectangle, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Be sure to keep the roll as tight as possible to ensure the rolls will hold their shape during baking. Once rolled, pinch the seam closed to prevent it from unrolling.Using a sharp knife or a piece of dental floss, cut the dough into even sections. A common approach is to cut the log in half, then cut each half into half again, making four sections. Finally, slice each section into three equal pieces. This should give you a total of 12 rolls.

Baking the Rolls

After shaping the rolls, it’s important to let them rise a second time. Arrange the rolls in the prepared baking pan, placing them cut-side down on top of the caramel sauce. Arrange them in a 4×3 grid, spacing them evenly. Cover the pan with a damp kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let the rolls rise until they are puffy and almost doubled in size. This usually takes about 45-60 minutes.

While the rolls are rising, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the rolls are ready, place the pan in the middle of the oven and bake for about 32-37 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the rolls feel firm to the touch. The sweet smell of cinnamon and caramel will fill your kitchen during this time.

It’s crucial to keep an eye on the rolls, as over-baking can dry them out. If you’re unsure whether they’re done, gently press on the top of one of the rolls. If it springs back, they are ready.

Finishing Touches

Once the caramel rolls are done baking, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool for about 10 minutes. During this cooling time, the caramel sauce will settle and thicken slightly.

To serve, take a parchment-lined baking sheet and place it over the baking pan. With a quick motion, flip the pan upside down onto the sheet. The rolls will gently release from the pan, with the luscious caramel sauce dripping over them.

Serve immediately for the best experience, or let the rolls cool slightly before serving. If you have leftovers, store them tightly wrapped at room temperature and gently reheat in the microwave to bring back that fresh, gooey texture.

With the caramel sauce, filling, and shaping completed, your homemade caramel rolls are ready to impress. The combination of soft dough, sweet cinnamon filling, and indulgent caramel makes these rolls a perfect treat for breakfast, brunch, or any special occasion.

“For more information on food safety and nutrition, you can visit the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s, which offers a wealth of resources to ensure you are using the best ingredients”

Caramel Rolls Variations, Serving, and Storing

Caramel Rolls Variations

One of the best things about caramel rolls is their versatility. While the traditional recipe is delicious on its own, you can easily customize it to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Here are some ideas for variations:

1. Nutty Caramel Rolls: Adding nuts to your caramel rolls is a great way to introduce extra texture and flavor. Chopped pecans, walnuts, or hazelnuts are excellent choices. Simply sprinkle the nuts over the caramel sauce in the pan before arranging the rolls. The nuts will caramelize as the rolls bake, adding a delightful crunch to each bite.
2. Fruit-Infused Caramel Rolls: For a fruity twist, try adding chopped apples, berries, or bananas to the filling. You can sprinkle fruit on top of the cinnamon and brown sugar mixture before rolling up the dough. Alternatively, make a simple fruit compote to drizzle over the rolls after baking. Apples and cinnamon go particularly well together, creating a comforting fall-inspired flavor.
3. Vegan or Dairy-Free Caramel Rolls: For those following a vegan or dairy-free diet, you can substitute ingredients to make these rolls more accessible. Use plant-based butter and non-dairy milk (such as almond or oat milk) in the dough and caramel sauce. Ensure the yeast you’re using is vegan-friendly, and swap the eggs for a flaxseed mixture or egg replacer. You can also make a coconut milk-based caramel sauce for a tropical flair.
4. Gluten-Free Caramel Rolls: Making caramel rolls gluten-free is possible with the right flour blend. Look for a gluten-free all-purpose flour that includes xanthan gum, which helps with texture. You’ll also want to add a bit more liquid to the dough since gluten-free flours tend to absorb moisture differently. Ensure your caramel sauce is gluten-free by avoiding any additives or ingredients that might contain gluten.
5. Chocolate Caramel Rolls: Chocolate and caramel are a match made in heaven. To make chocolate caramel rolls, simply add chocolate chips or cocoa powder to the filling. For an extra indulgence, drizzle some melted chocolate over the finished rolls, adding a rich layer of flavor that complements the caramel.

Serving Caramel Rolls

Caramel rolls are best served warm, as the caramel sauce remains gooey and the rolls stay soft and tender. Here are some tips for serving your freshly baked rolls:

• Breakfast or Brunch: Caramel rolls make a luxurious breakfast or brunch treat. Serve them alongside fresh fruit, scrambled eggs, or a simple yogurt parfait. They pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea.
• Dessert: If you’re serving caramel rolls as dessert, try pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The combination of warm, caramel-coated rolls with cold, creamy ice cream is irresistible.
• With a Drizzle of Extra Caramel: If you’re a fan of extra sweetness, drizzle additional caramel sauce over the top of the rolls before serving. You can even heat up leftover caramel and pour it over the rolls for an added touch of decadence.

Storing and Reheating Caramel Rolls

If you have any leftover caramel rolls, you can store them for later enjoyment. Here’s how:

1. Storing Leftovers:
   • Room Temperature: Store the rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. The caramel sauce may firm up as it cools, but the rolls will still be delicious.
   • Refrigeration: If you want to keep them for a longer period, you can store the rolls in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just be sure to cover them tightly to prevent them from drying out.
2. Reheating Tips:
   • Microwave: To reheat individual rolls, place them on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Microwave for 15-20 seconds until warm. If you want to soften the caramel, you can heat it for a few more seconds.
   • Oven: For reheating multiple rolls, place them on a baking sheet and cover them loosely with foil to prevent them from drying out. Bake in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes until warm. This method will help keep the rolls soft and restore their gooey caramel texture.

Final Thoughts on Caramel Rolls

Whether you stick with the classic version or experiment with variations, caramel rolls are a comforting and decadent treat that will surely become a family favorite. The combination of soft, buttery dough and rich, caramel sauce is hard to beat. Perfect for holidays, special occasions, or a weekend breakfast, these rolls are versatile enough to suit any occasion. With the right techniques and a little patience, you’ll have a batch of caramel rolls that will impress everyone at the table.

FAQs for Caramel Rolls

What is the difference between caramel rolls and sticky buns?

• While both are sweet rolls, caramel rolls typically use a butterscotch-like caramel sauce, whereas sticky buns often have a caramelized sugar and honey glaze. Caramel rolls have a softer, more buttery dough, and the caramel sauce is poured into the pan before baking, rather than being poured over after baking like sticky buns.

What can I use if I don’t have bread flour?

If you don’t have bread flour, you can use all-purpose flour as a substitute. However, the dough may not be quite as soft or fluffy as it would be with bread flour. If you’re using all-purpose flour, you might need to add a little extra liquid to compensate for the lower protein content.

How do I make the dough for caramel rolls light and fluffy?

The key to light and fluffy dough is proper gluten development. Be sure to knead the dough for 8-12 minutes until it passes the “windowpane test.” Also, let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area to ensure it gets enough time to expand and become airy.

How long should caramel rolls cool before flipping the pan?

It’s best to let the caramel rolls cool for about 10 minutes after baking before flipping the pan. This gives the caramel a chance to set slightly, making the rolls easier to remove from the pan without the caramel spilling.

Can I make caramel rolls the night before?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and let it rise overnight. After the initial rise, punch down the dough, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. In the morning, roll out the dough, add the filling, shape the rolls, and let them rise before baking.

Conclusion

Making caramel rolls is a fun and rewarding process that results in a delicious treat perfect for any occasion. From the rich, gooey caramel sauce to the soft, fluffy dough, each bite is a comforting blend of sweetness and warmth. Whether you’re sticking with the classic recipe or adding your own twist with nuts, fruit, or even chocolate, these rolls are sure to impress anyone lucky enough to try them.

By following the detailed steps for preparing the dough, making the caramel sauce, and properly assembling and baking the rolls, you can achieve the perfect caramel rolls every time. Don’t forget to experiment with different variations and enjoy these rolls as part of breakfast, brunch, or dessert.

With tips for storing and reheating, you can savor your caramel rolls long after they’ve cooled, ensuring that you can indulge in their deliciousness any time you crave them. So go ahead, roll up your sleeves, and treat yourself to the perfect batch of caramel rolls!

For more dessert inspiration, check out our Strawberry Crunch Cake