Indulge in the Rich Flavors of Southern Pecan Sweet Rolls: A Gin Lee Favorite

There's something truly special about Southern comfort food—layers of tradition, warmth, and a touch of nostalgia. For Gin Lee, one of her treasured recipes that embodies her deep South roots is her beloved Southern Pecan Sweet Rolls. These irresistible treats are more than just a breakfast pastry; they’re a celebration of flavor and heritage, crafted with care and a whole lot of love. Today, I’ll guide you through a full step-by-step recipe that guarantees to make your mornings sweeter and your family’s hearts fuller.

Table of Contents

• Ingredients Overview

• Preparation Steps

• Baking & Finish

• Pro Tips & Variations

• Conclusion

Ingredients Overview

To bring this Southern classic to life, gather the following ingredients:

For the dough:

• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast

• 1 cup warm milk (around 110°F)

• ½ cup granulated Splenda or sugar

• ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 2 large eggs

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus more if needed)

For the filling:

• ½ cup packed Splenda brown sugar blend or regular brown sugar

• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 cup chopped pecans, plus about a half cup of whole pecan halves for the top center of the rolls.

For the glaze:

• ½ cup Sugar-free powdered sugar or regular powdered sugar

• 1-2 tablespoons milk

• Optional: a splash of vanilla extract

Preparation Steps

Activate the Yeast:

In a small bowl, combine warm milk and a teaspoon of Splenda or sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy. This step ensures your yeast is active and ready to work its magic.

Make the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, mix the remaining Splenda or sugar, melted butter, salt, eggs, and the activated yeast mixture.

Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, until the dough is soft but not sticky. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, then place it in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Prepare the Filling

While the dough is rising, mix the Splenda brown sugar blend or regular brown sugar and cinnamon in a bowl. In a separate small bowl, soften the butter. Once the dough has doubled, punch it down and roll it out into a rectangle about 16x12 inches.

Assemble the Rolls

Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture generously, then sprinkle chopped pecans over the top. Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Slice into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased baking dish.

Baking & Finish

Let the Rolls Rise Again and Add Whole Pecan Halves on Top of the Center of Each Pecan Roll

Cover the baking dish with a clean towel and let the rolls rise for another 30-45 minutes, until puffy. Add the pecans on the center of each pecan roll.

Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and fragrant. Keep an eye on them so they don’t over-bake—these sweet rolls are best when soft and gooey inside.

Glaze & Serve

While the rolls are baking, whisk together sugar-free powdered sugar (or regular powdered sugar), milk, and vanilla to make the glaze. Drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls immediately after removing from the oven. Serve these Southern Pecan Sweet Rolls warm, and enjoy a taste of tradition with every bite.

Pro Tips & Variations/Make Ahead:

Prepare the rolls up to the second rise, then refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let them come to room temperature and bake.

For Extra Flavor: Add a splash of bourbon or vanilla extract to the glaze for an elevated touch.

Nut Variations: Swap pecans for walnuts or add a sprinkle of sea salt on top for contrast.

Gluten-Free Option: Use a high-quality gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.

A Taste of Southern Heritage

This Southern Pecan Sweet Roll recipe isn’t just a treat—it's a reflection of Gin Lee’s deep South roots and her love for comforting, nostalgic flavors. Whether you’re sharing these rolls with family on a lazy Sunday or bringing a touch of Southern hospitality to your breakfast table, they’re sure to become a treasured tradition. 

Remember, the secret ingredient is always love—baked into every layer, pecan, and drizzle of glaze. Enjoy the journey of making this classic, and savor every sweet, nutty bite!