Step 1

Warm milk in microwave for 30 seconds - 1 minute until warm (but not hot, about 105°F). Add yeast and let proof for 5 minutes until foamy.

Step 2

In a large bowl or stand mixer combine flour, salt, sugar, and butter pieces. Make a well in the center and pour in the eggs and yeast/milk mixture. Mix on low speed or with a large spoon until well inforporated and sticky. Keep mixing until dough pulls cleanly away from bowl (it will still be sticky).

Step 3

Turn the dough out onto a lightly-floured surface and lightly knead into a small ball.

Step 4

Place dough into a medium bowl and spray with cooking spray Cover with plastic wrap and let rise until about double in size (1-1.5 hours).

Step 5

Preheat oven to 350°F. Scatter pecans on a rimmed baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes until golden brown and fragrant. Set aside.

Step 6

Grease a 9x13" pan (metal works best) with cooking spray or butter. Set aside.

Step 7

In a small saucepan, combine the maple syrup, vanilla, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 4 tablespoons of butter, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.

Step 8

Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring often, until it comes to a boil. Boil for 30 seconds, then remove from heat and pour into the bottom of the 9x13" pan.

Step 9

Scatter the toasted pecans evenly over the mixture. Set aside.

Step 10

In a small bowl, combine cardamom, cinnamon, orange zest, and remaining 1/3 cup brown sugar and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Massage with fingertips until zest is working into the sugar.

Step 11

Melt the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter. Set aside.

Step 12

Once the dough has risen, turn out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll with a rolling pin into a large rectangular shape, about 20x9". Dust with flour as needed to keep from sticking as you roll.

Step 13

Brush the melted butter onto the dough. Then scatter the cardamom/cinnamon filling over it evenly. Use your hands or a spatula to rub it gently and press it onto the dough.

Step 14

Roll up the dough into a tight spiraled log. Squeeze the seam of the log shut.

Step 15

Using a serrated knife (I like to use a cheese knife), cut the log into 12 even rolls.

Step 16

Place each piece in the prepared pan on top of the pecans, spaced evenly about an inch apart.

Step 17

Cover loosely with plastic wrap and let rise for about 45-60 minutes until doubled in size.

Step 18

Preheat oven to 350°F.

Step 19

Once buns have risen the 2nd time and are double in size, bake for 30-35 minutes. They will be brown on top (see image).

Step 20

Remove the pan from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes in the pan.

Step 21

Then cut the sizes away with a butter knife to loosen.

Step 22

Place a wire wrack on top of a baking sheet and invert the entire pan onto the rack in one motion.

Step 23

Remove the pan slowly and scrape off any nuts that stuck.

Step 24

Let the buns cool on the rack. Enjoy!

Step 25

(Store in an airtight container for up for 3 days - taste great reheated for a couple seconds in the microwave.)