Sugar-Free Sticky Buns

Indulge in the irresistible sweetness of these Sugar-Free Sticky Buns—completely free of refined sugar and bursting with wholesome flavors! This healthier twist on the classic treat features a fluffy whole wheat dough, naturally sweetened with a luscious date-based filling, a touch of maple syrup, and warm cinnamon spice. Chopped pecans add a delightful crunch, while a glossy coconut oil and maple glaze provides the perfect finishing touch. With simple steps like kneading, rolling, and baking, these sticky buns are a guilt-free, homemade delight that's perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack. Savor the tender texture, caramel-like sweetness, and satisfying richness—all without the sugar crash!

Nutriscore Rating: 64/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 12

Ingredients

• 1 cup Warm water
• 0.5 cup Unsweetened almond milk
• 1 packet Active dry yeast
• 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large Egg
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
• 0.5 teaspoon Salt
• 3 cups Whole wheat flour
• 1 cup Pitted dates
• 0.5 cup Hot water
• 0.25 cup Maple syrup
• 1.5 teaspoons Ground cinnamon
• 0.5 cup Chopped pecans
• 3 tablespoons Coconut oil
• 2 tablespoons Maple syrup (for topping glaze)

Directions

Step 1

In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, almond milk, and the active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.

Step 2

Whisk in the melted butter, egg, vanilla extract, and salt until fully combined.

Step 3

Gradually add the whole wheat flour to the wet mixture, about half a cup at a time, stirring until a dough forms.

Step 4

Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use the dough hook attachment on a stand mixer for 5 minutes.

Step 5

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 6

Meanwhile, prepare the filling by soaking the pitted dates in hot water for 10 minutes. Drain and blend them in a food processor with the maple syrup until a smooth paste forms.

Step 7

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface to form a large rectangle, approximately 12x16 inches.

Step 8

Spread the date paste evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle cinnamon and chopped pecans over the date paste.

Step 9

Starting from one of the long sides, tightly roll the dough into a log. Slice the log into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.

Step 10

Cover the dish with a towel and let the buns rise again for 30-40 minutes until puffy.

Step 11

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the sticky buns for 25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Step 12

While the buns are baking, combine the coconut oil and additional maple syrup in a small saucepan over low heat to create the glaze.

Step 13

Once the sticky buns are done baking, brush the warm glaze over the tops of the buns. Let cool slightly before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1396.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3491.7

Total Fat 145.3g	0%
Saturated Fat 70.8g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 3.0g
Cholesterol 343.5mg	0%
Sodium 1405.0mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 527.6g	0%
Dietary Fiber 68.9g	0%
Total Sugars 233.9g
Protein 68.2g	0%

Vitamin D 97.7IU	0%
Calcium 638.7mg	0%
Iron 19.4mg	0%
Potassium 3708.5mg	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: 35.4%

Protein: 7.4%

Carbs: 57.2%