Grilling isn’t just for savory meats and vegetables; it can also elevate your sweet treats to a whole new level. One such delight is the mouth-watering “grilled stickies,” a modern interpretation of the traditional sticky buns. With a crispy exterior and a gooey, caramelized filling, grilled stickies are perfect for brunch or dessert. In this article, we will explore everything there is to know about cooking grilled stickies, from the ingredients needed to the intricacies of grilling them to perfection.
What Are Grilled Stickies?
Grilled stickies, often called grilled sticky buns, are a sweet dessert made from a rich, sweet dough, usually enriched with ingredients such as butter, sugar, and cinnamon. These delectable treats are then topped with a sticky caramel sauce and grilled to enhance their flavor and texture. The grilling process creates a delightful contrast between the crispy exterior and the soft, gooey inside, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion.
Ingredients for Grilled Stickies
Creating perfect grilled stickies begins with gathering the right ingredients. Below is a list of what you’ll need to prepare these tasty desserts:
- For the dough:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- For the filling:
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- ¾ cup chopped nuts (optional, walnuts or pecans work well)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- For the caramel sauce:
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Preparing the Dough
Step 1: Activating the Yeast
Start by activating your yeast. In a medium bowl, combine the warm milk and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is alive and ready to work its magic.
Step 2: Mixing the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Slowly add the frothy yeast mixture, melted butter, and eggs. Mix until a soft dough forms. If the dough seems too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.
Step 3: Kneading
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1-2 hours or until it has doubled in size.
Preparing the Filling
While the dough is rising, it’s time to prepare the filling. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon. If you’re using nuts, chop them roughly and set them aside.
Step 1: Rolling Out the Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. On a lightly floured surface, roll it out into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
Step 2: Spreading the Filling
Spread the softened butter evenly over the surface of the dough. Sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture evenly, followed by the chopped nuts, if desired.
Step 3: Rolling and Cutting
Starting from one edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Once rolled, use a sharp knife or dental floss to slice the log into 1-2 inch thick pieces. This will yield beautiful, spiraled sections of dough that will become your grilled stickies.
Creating the Caramel Sauce
The caramel sauce is integral to achieving that sticky finish. Here’s how to make it:
Step 1: Combining Ingredients
In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, butter, and heavy cream. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture comes to a gentle boil.
Step 2: Simmering
Once boiling, reduce the heat and simmer for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove it from heat, and stir in the vanilla extract. Allow it to cool slightly before using.
Grilling the Stickies
Step 1: Preheating the Grill
Prepare your grill by preheating it to medium heat. If using a charcoal grill, ensure you have a shaded area where you can manage ongoing heat.
Step 2: Preparing the Grilling Surface
You can either use a cast-iron skillet or a grilling pan to prevent the stickies from falling through the grates. Lightly oil the surface to ensure that the stickies do not stick during cooking.
Step 3: Arranging the Stickies
Place the sliced stickies onto the hot skillet, cut side up. Pour half of the caramel sauce over the top of them, ensuring they are generously coated. Cover them with a lid to trap heat and steam, which will help them cook evenly.
Step 4: Grilling Time
Allow the stickies to grill for about 10-15 minutes, occasionally checking to ensure they don’t burn. The bottom should turn golden brown and crispy. Carefully flip each sticky to ensure even grilling, and cook for an additional 5 minutes covered.
Serving the Grilled Stickies
Once grilled to perfection, it is time to serve your glorious grilled stickies!
Step 1: Plating
Using a spatula, carefully transfer the stickies to a serving plate.
Step 2: Finishing Touches
Pour any remaining caramel sauce over the warm sticks for an extra indulgent touch. Optionally, you may want to garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a handful of chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
Step 3: Enjoying**
Grilled stickies can be served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Pair them with a fresh cup of coffee or tea for a delightful brunch experience.
Tips for Perfect Grilled Stickies
- Dough Consistency: The key to a perfect dough is to ensure it’s soft but not overly sticky. Adjust with flour if needed.
- Caramel Sauce: For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of sea salt to your caramel sauce for that sweet and salty contrast.
- Experiment with Flavors: Don’t shy away from adding your favorite extracts or spices in the filling, such as nutmeg or pumpkin spice, for a seasonal twist.
Conclusion
Grilled stickies are a creative and delicious way to enjoy a classic dessert. With the right ingredients and techniques, you can impress your family and friends with a sweet treat that’s crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside. Whether for a special occasion or just a cozy night in, grilling stickies offers a unique and enjoyable cooking experience. So fire up the grill and savor the delightful flavors of these irresistible desserts!
Experiment with your own variations and make them your own. After all, the joy of cooking is about celebrating creativity in every bite. Your grilled stickies are bound to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire!
What are Grilled Stickies?
Grilled Stickies are a delightful twist on the classic sticky buns. Traditionally, sticky buns are sweet, cinnamon-spiced rolls that are baked with a gooey caramel sauce. In the grilled version, these delicious rolls are cooked on a grill, adding a smoky flavor and crispy texture that elevates the original treat.
The grilling process caramelizes the sugars, bringing out a deeper flavor profile and creating a uniquely satisfying combination of textures. The result is a delectable dessert that combines the nostalgia of sticky buns with a fun, outdoor cooking method—making them perfect for summer gatherings or barbecues.
How do you make Grilled Stickies?
To make Grilled Stickies, start with pre-made cinnamon roll dough or your favorite sticky bun recipe. Roll out the dough and sprinkle it with brown sugar, cinnamon, and chopped nuts, then shape it into rolls before placing them on a grilling tray. Prepare a caramel sauce using brown sugar, butter, and heavy cream, which should be poured over the rolls before grilling.
Once prepared, preheat your grill to medium heat. Place the rolls on the grill and cover for about 15-20 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure even cooking. The rolls are done when they are golden brown and the caramel sauce is bubbling. Serve them warm, drizzled with any remaining sauce for an indulgent finishing touch.
Can you use gluten-free dough for Grilled Stickies?
Absolutely! Gluten-free alternatives are available for those with dietary restrictions or preferences. Many brands offer gluten-free cinnamon roll dough or you can even make your own from a gluten-free flour blend. Just be sure to follow the recipe instructions closely, as gluten-free dough may require different amounts of liquid or rising time.
When using gluten-free dough for Grilled Stickies, the grilling technique remains the same. Keep an eye on the rolls while they cook, as gluten-free products can sometimes require varying cooking times compared to traditional dough. The result will still be a delicious treat that everyone can enjoy, without compromising flavor.
Can you customize the toppings for Grilled Stickies?
Yes, one of the best things about Grilled Stickies is their versatility. While the classic toppings of brown sugar, cinnamon, and nuts are always tasty, you can get creative with flavors! Consider adding ingredients like chocolate chips, dried fruit, or even different types of nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to personalize your rolls according to your taste preferences.
Additionally, you can experiment with flavored syrups or glazes to drizzle over the finished product. From maple syrup to a simple vanilla glaze, the toppings can enhance the overall experience and add a unique twist that makes your Grilled Stickies stand out at any gathering.
How long do Grilled Stickies stay fresh?
Grilled Stickies are best enjoyed fresh off the grill, but they can still be stored for later enjoyment. If you have leftovers, allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To maintain the best flavor and texture, it’s recommended to reheat them in the oven or on the grill before serving again.
For longer storage, you can also freeze the Grilled Stickies. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can stay good for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as needed.
What can you serve with Grilled Stickies?
Grilled Stickies pair wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments. For a delightful brunch or dessert, consider serving them alongside fresh fruit like berries or sliced bananas. These fruity additions can balance the sweetness of the rolls and provide a refreshing contrast.
Additionally, you can serve Grilled Stickies with coffee, tea, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. The warm, gooey texture of the rolls combined with the cold ice cream creates a comforting dessert experience that will please guests of all ages.
Can you make Grilled Stickies in advance?
Yes, you can prepare parts of the Grilled Stickies in advance to save time on the day of serving. You can make the dough and shape the rolls a day ahead, then refrigerate them overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and results in a more flavorful treat when grilled. Just ensure they are well covered to prevent them from drying out.
On the day you plan to serve them, simply take the rolls out of the refrigerator while preheating the grill and allow them to come to room temperature. This helps to ensure even cooking. Once ready, follow the grilling instructions and enjoy your deliciously convenient treat!