Pecan-Honey Buns

Directions

1. 1
   In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle, combine the yeast with a pinch of granulated sugar and the milk and let stand until foamy, 5 minutes.
2. 2
   Add the remaining sugar, the 4 tablespoons of melted butter and the egg yolks, honey and vanilla; mix until blended.
3. 3
   Mix in the flour and salt.
4. 4
   Switch to the dough hook and knead at medium speed until the dough forms a smooth ball, 4 minutes.
5. 5
   Brush a large bowl with butter.
6. 6
   Add the dough and brush the top with butter.
7. 7
   Cover and let stand in a warm place until doubled in volume, about 1 hour.
8. 8
   Butter a 9-by-13-inch glass baking dish.
9. 9
   In a medium saucepan, melt the honey with the brown sugar and 4 tablespoons of butter over moderate heat until the sugar is dissolved, about 1 minute.
10. 10
    Pour the hot honey mixture into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle with the pecans.
11. 11
    In a bowl, mix the sugar with the cinnamon.
12. 12
    On a lightly floured work surface, roll out the dough to a 12-by-18-inch rectangle.
13. 13
    Spread the butter over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border all around.
14. 14
    Sprinkle the dough with the cinnamon sugar.
15. 15
    Starting at a long side, roll the dough into a log and turn it seam side down.
16. 16
    Cut the dough into 12 slices.
17. 17
    Arrange the slices, cut side up, in the baking dish.
18. 18
    Cover and let stand in a warm place until the buns double in volume, about 1 hour.
19. 19
    Preheat the oven to 350.
20. 20
    Bake the honey buns for about 35 minutes, until golden brown.
21. 21
    Remove from the oven and let stand for 5 minutes.
22. 22
    Invert the buns onto a baking sheet and let cool slightly.
23. 23
    Serve warm.