In the world of sweet breakfast pastries, few treats are as beloved as cinnamon rolls and sticky buns. These delectable swirls of dough, sugar, and spice have captivated our taste buds and warmed our hearts for generations. Despite their popularity, however, you might not know the big differences between these sweet treats, or if there are any standardized differences at all.
Despite their similar shapes and flavors, cinnamon rolls and sticky buns do possess unique characteristics that set them apart. Both pastries feature a cinnamon and sugar filling, but cinnamon rolls typically use a more generous amount, while sticky buns focus more on the layer of caramelized sugar that forms underneath the dough, giving them their “sticky” name.
In addition to this, sticky buns are crowned with nuts and a luscious caramel topping, while cinnamon rolls often don a creamy frosting or glaze. Finally, cinnamon rolls are renowned for their soft, pillowy texture, whereas sticky buns offer a delightful contrast between the tender dough and the crunchy, nut-topped exterior. Beyond these basic traits, these baked goods have even more similarities and differences.
Though sticky buns may contain cinnamon, they do not always contain the spice, whereas cinnamon rolls always contain cinnamon (as the name implies). As a result, sticky buns have a more nutty and toffee-like taste compared to cinnamon rolls, which are more sugar-and-spice forward.
What are sticky buns?
The sticky bun, which is just as irresistible as a cinnamon bun, can be traced back to Pennsylvania Dutch country, where a fusion of European baking traditions and local ingredients gave rise to this beloved sweet treat. Sticky buns begin with a base of tender, yeasted dough, much like a cinnamon roll. However, what truly distinguishes them is their sticky caramel topping.
The pan used to bake sticky buns is coated with a rich, gooey caramel sauce. This luscious concoction can be made with ingredients like butter, brown sugar, and often pecans or other nuts, creating a deep, toasty sweetness thats downright addictive. This further separates the buns from cinnamon rolls, as the sweet topping on the latter is added after baking.
The dough for sticky buns is rolled out and topped with a mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, and sometimes raisins or even more nuts. The dough is then carefully rolled into a cylinder and sliced into individual portions. These slices are nestled in the pan on top of the caramel sauce. After baking, the buns are inverted onto a serving platter, revealing their glorious, caramelized tops. The sticky bun experience is a symphony of textures and flavors — the soft, fluffy dough, the rich caramelized exterior, and the sugary filling, all harmonizing in a delectable sweet symphony.
What are cinnamon rolls?
The modern cinnamon roll, as we know it today, is believed to originate from Sweden. In their country of origin, cinnamon rolls are known as “kanelbullar,” and they became popular during the 17th century. When European immigrants came to the U.S., cinnamon rolls were introduced to Americans, and are widely known across the country as simple yet irresistible breakfast treats.
Cinnamon rolls are crafted using a rich, buttery dough, sweet granulated sugar, and of course, ground cinnamon. The dough, typically made with flour, sugar, eggs, milk, and yeast, is rolled out into a thin rectangle. Next, a luscious layer of softened butter is spread generously across its surface, followed by a shower of cinnamon and sugar. The dough is then rolled into a tight spiral, creating those iconic layers and swirls. The log of dough is sliced into individual rolls that can be packed into a casserole dish or put on a baking sheet to bake.
Once baked to golden perfection, cinnamon rolls are crowned with a crisp sugar glaze or a velvety frosting. The result is a delectable marriage of warm, tender pastry and a fragrant, sweet filling, perfectly complemented by the rich, smooth icing. Its the kind of breakfast treat that can transport you to a cozy kitchen with every bite. A sticky bun provides a similar level of sticky-sweet comfort, but is made a bit differently.
Cinnamon Roll VS Sticky Buns
FAQ
Are sticky buns the same as cinnamon rolls?
What’s the difference between cinnamon rolls and buns?
What is the difference between a morning bun and a sticky bun?
Why are my cinnamon rolls so sticky?
What is the difference between Sticky buns and cinnamon rolls?
Both sticky buns and cinnamon rolls are filled with cinnamon sugar and baked into fluffy, golden perfection. But there are a few key differences between the two sweet treats. These decadent buns taste just like an Almond Joy for breakfast, complete with chopped almonds, sweetened coconut, and chocolate.
What is the difference between Ceylon cinnamon and other types of cinnamon?
Ceylon cinnamon has a softer and smoother aroma and taste compared to another cinnamon type, cassia cinnamon. In addition, Ceylon cinnamon contains less coumarin. Coumarin is an organic substance contained in cinnamon.
Do sticky buns contain cinnamon?
Though sticky buns may contain cinnamon, they do not always contain the spice, whereas cinnamon rolls always contain cinnamon (as the name implies). As a result, sticky buns have a more nutty and toffee-like taste compared to cinnamon rolls, which are more sugar-and-spice forward.
How do you make a cinnamon roll with a sticky bun?
The sticky bun cooks in a glaze at the bottom of the pan. The finished buns are inverted and served with the sticky, nutty topping they baked in. Let’s break down the cinnamon roll into the three basic parts: the soft and fluffy dough, the sweet cinnamon-y filling, and the tangy cream cheese frosting.