Coconutty Orange Apricot Sticky Buns

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.

Nutriscore Rating: 50/100

Prep Time:45 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:70 mins

Servings: 12

Ingredients

• 1 cup Whole milk
• 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon Granulated sugar
• 2.25 teaspoons Active dry yeast
• 3.25 cups All-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 1 whole Large egg
• 1 cup Dried apricots, chopped
• 1 cup Brown sugar
• 0.75 cup Shredded sweetened coconut
• 1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon Orange zest
• 2 tablespoons Orange juice
• 0.25 cup Heavy cream
• 4 ounces Cream cheese
• 0.5 cup Powdered sugar
• 0.5 teaspoon Vanilla extract

Directions

Step 1

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).

Step 2

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.

Step 3

Add 2 cups of the flour, the salt, and the egg to the bowl. Mix until combined.

Step 4

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.

Step 5

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.

Step 6

Meanwhile, prepare the filling. In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, shredded coconut, cinnamon, and orange zest. Set aside.

Step 7

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.

Step 8

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.

Step 9

Starting from the long side, tightly roll up the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal.

Step 10

Using a sharp knife or dental floss, cut the log into 12 equal pieces.

Step 11

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.

Step 12

Arrange the rolls cut-side up in the prepared baking dish. Cover with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes.

Step 13

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 14

Bake the buns for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 15

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.

Step 16

Let the buns cool slightly before spreading the cream cheese frosting generously over the top. Sprinkle with extra shredded coconut if desired.

Step 17

Serve warm and enjoy the gooey, tropical delight of coconut, orange, and apricot flavors!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1554.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	4827.5

Total Fat 168.5g	0%
Saturated Fat 107.2g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.0g
Cholesterol 513.8mg	0%
Sodium 3036.0mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 774.9g	0%
Dietary Fiber 40.2g	0%
Total Sugars 411.8g
Protein 76.0g	0%

Vitamin D 148.4IU	0%
Calcium 763.5mg	0%
Iron 25.8mg	0%
Potassium 3379.0mg	0%

*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.

Source of Calories

Fat: 30.8%

Protein: 6.2%

Carbs: 63.0%