Sticky buns and cinnamon rolls are two sweet baked treats that are quite similar. They both contain a cinnamon-sugar filling and are made from a yeast-leavened dough. However, there are some key differences between the two.
The Main Differences
Here are the main differences between sticky buns and cinnamon rolls:
- Shape – Sticky buns are round buns shaped like a cinnamon roll that has been sliced. Cinnamon rolls are rolled up spirals.
- Topping – Sticky buns get their name from the sticky topping poured over them before baking, usually made from brown sugar, butter, and corn syrup. Cinnamon rolls may get a drizzle of icing or glaze.
- Texture – Sticky buns tend to be denser and chewier due to the caramel-like topping. Cinnamon rolls can be lighter and fluffier.
- Filling – While both contain cinnamon-sugar, sticky buns sometimes also add pecans or raisins to the filling.
- Preparation – Sticky buns are quicker to prepare since they don’t require rolling and slicing. Cinnamon rolls take more effort to roll up.
The Dough
Both sticky buns and cinnamon rolls start with a basic yeast-leavened dough. This dough is often enriched with eggs, butter, and sometimes milk. Here is a comparison of the dough:
| Dough Ingredients | Sticky Buns | Cinnamon Rolls |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | Yes | Yes |
| Granulated sugar | Yes | Yes |
| Salt | Yes | Yes |
| Active dry yeast | Yes | Yes |
| Milk | Optional | Optional |
| Eggs | Usually | Usually |
| Butter or oil | Yes | Yes |
As you can see, the dough ingredients are fundamentally the same. The main difference is that sticky bun dough does not need to be rolled out, so it contains a bit more liquid. Cinnamon roll dough should be firmer to hold its shape when rolled.
The Filling
While both contain cinnamon-sugar, sticky buns have a wider range of fillings. Here are some common options:
Sticky Bun Fillings:
- Cinnamon-sugar
- Chopped pecans or walnuts
- Raisins or other dried fruit
- Chopped chocolate or butterscotch chips
- Spices like nutmeg or ginger
- Chopped apple or other fruit preserves
Cinnamon Roll Fillings:
- Cinnamon-sugar
- Cream cheese
- Chopped nuts (less common)
- Fruit preserves (less common)
Cinnamon rolls tend to stick with just cinnamon-sugar for the classic flavor. Sticky buns offer more versatility in flavors for the filling.
Shaping and Baking Process
The shaping and baking process differs quite a bit between sticky buns and cinnamon rolls. This gives them their distinct appearance.
Sticky Buns
- Portion the dough into equal pieces.
- Flatten each piece into a disk.
- Spoon filling onto the center of the disk.
- Fold the edges of the dough over the filling and pinch together.
- Place buns in a pan and pour topping over them.
- Bake until golden brown.
With this simple shaping method, the buns keep their round shape. The gooey topping bakes into a sweet glaze.
Cinnamon Rolls
- Roll out the dough into a rectangle.
- Spread filling over the dough.
- Roll up the dough tightly from long edge to long edge.
- Slice the rolled dough into spirals.
- Place spirals in a pan and allow to rise.
- Bake until golden brown.
- Cool and spread with icing or glaze.
Rolling and slicing gives cinnamon rolls their signature shape. They take more work but give you a fun, swirly texture.
Serving Suggestions
Here are some common ways to serve sticky buns vs. cinnamon rolls:
| Serving Style | Sticky Buns | Cinnamon Rolls |
|---|---|---|
| Breakfast | Yes | Yes |
| Brunch | Yes | Yes |
| Dessert | Yes | Yes |
| Coffee Break | Yes | Yes |
| Potluck | Yes | Yes |
Both sticky buns and cinnamon rolls work well for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet snack. Their warm, soft texture and sweet taste makes them comfort food favorites any time of day.
Nutrition
Being sweet baked treats, neither are the most nutritious options. However, here is a nutrition comparison per serving:
| Nutrition Facts | Sticky Bun | Cinnamon Roll |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 350 | 400 |
| Fat | 13g | 18g |
| Carbs | 49g | 54g |
| Protein | 5g | 5g |
| Sugar | 21g | 24g |
Cinnamon rolls tend to be slightly higher in calories, fat, carbs, and sugar due to the amount of frosting or glaze added. Sticky buns have a lighter topping, but the sugar content is still similar between the two.
Conclusion
While sticky buns and cinnamon rolls contain the same basic ingredients, their preparation method gives them distinct shapes, textures, and flavors. Sticky buns have a quicker, easier shaping process that results in a denser, chewier texture. Cinnamon rolls require more effort to roll and slice but have a lighter, more layered interior. Either sweet treat makes a delicious breakfast, brunch, or snack!