Killer Pecan Sticky Buns

Directions

1. 1
   Dough:
2. 2
   Combine water, yeast, and 1 teaspoon of sugar in a small bowl; stir to combine. Let stand in a warm place until small bubbles form on the surface, about 5 minutes.
3. 3
   Meanwhile, heat milk, 8 tablespoons (1 stick) butter, salt, and remaining 2 teaspoons of sugar in a small saucepan over very low heat. Cook, stirring constantly, until sugar has dissolved and butter has melted. Be sure not to let the mixture become hotter than 115°, or it will kill the yeast. Remove from heat, and pour into a large bowl; add the yeast mixture. Stir until combined. Add 6 cups flour, and stir until mixture forms a soft dough. It may be necessary to add the remaining 1/2 cup flour.
4. 4
   Transfer mixture to a lightly floured work surface, and knead until the dough is smooth, 5 to 8 minutes.
5. 5
   Lightly oil a large bowl, and place dough in bowl. Cover, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, 30 to 45 minutes. At this point, dough may be stored, tightly covered, in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Allow dough to reach room temperature before proceeding with the recipe.
6. 6
   Punch dough down, and divide equally in half. Place on a clean work surface, and cover loosely with a kitchen towel or inverted bowl. Let rest for 5 to 10 minutes.
7. 7
   Sticky Buns:
8. 8
   Butter two 9-inch round glass baking dishes with 2-4 tablespoons butter; set aside.
9. 9
   In a small bowl, combine raisins and bourbon, and let soak until plumped, about 20 minutes.
10. 10
    In a second small bowl, combine cinnamon, 1 cup brown sugar, and remaining 12 tablespoons butter; set aside.
11. 11
    In a third small bowl, combine remaining 1 1/2 cups brown sugar, honey, and pecans. Spread half of mixture evenly in each prepared baking dish; set aside.
12. 12
    Roll each half of dough into a 12 inch by 6-inch rectangle about 1/4-inch thick. Spread half of the brown sugar and butter mixture evenly over each half of dough, leaving a 1-inch border. Drain raisins, and sprinkle over brown-sugar mixture. Beginning with the long side of the dough, roll each half into a log. Place the logs, seam side down, on a clean work surface. Using a sharp knife, cut the logs crosswise into 1-inch-thick slices. Transfer slices, cut side down, to prepared baking dishes (the slices should fit snugly). Set aside in a warm place, and allow to rise until slightly puffy, 20 to 30 minutes.
13. 13
    Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Place baking dishes on a baking sheet with sides and bake until a cake tester inserted in the center comes out clean and the buns are golden brown, 45 to 50 minutes.
14. 14
    Let cool for 5 minutes. While still warm, place a plate over baking dish. Invert baking dish to unmold. Serve warm or at room temperature.