Preparation Steps

• In a large bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Add melted butter, egg, salt, and flour. Knead until smooth, then cover and let rise for 1 hour.
• Lightly flour your work surface and roll the dough out into a 15x20-inch rectangle.
• Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough. Sprinkle the brown sugar, cinnamon, and diced pecans evenly over the butter.
• Starting at the long end, tightly roll the dough into a log. Slice the log into 12 equal segments.
• Place the rolls in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise for 30 to 45 minutes.
• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25 to 30 minutes until golden brown.
• While the rolls bake, make the caramel sauce. In a saucepan, combine the white sugar and water. Cook over medium heat until amber in color. Carefully whisk in the butter, heavy cream, sea salt, and vanilla extract.
• Pour the warm caramel sauce over the baked cinnamon rolls and sprinkle with the remaining diced pecans before serving.