1. Make the Dough:

• In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy and bubbly.

• In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, softened butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until a soft dough forms.

• Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes (or use a stand mixer with a dough hook) until the dough is smooth and elastic.

• Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1-1.5 hours or until it doubles in size.

2. Prepare the Caramel Pecan Topping:

• In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and cook for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

• Pour the caramel sauce into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly over the caramel sauce. Set aside.

3. Prepare the Filling:

• In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until well combined to form the cinnamon filling.

4. Assemble the Rolls:

• Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air. Roll the dough out on a floured surface into a rectangle about 18×12 inches.

• Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the rolled dough, leaving about a 1-inch border along the edges.

• Starting from the long edge, carefully roll the dough tightly into a log, sealing the edge when finished.

• Slice the dough into 12-15 even pieces, depending on how large you want the rolls to be.

• Arrange the slices cut-side up in the prepared baking dish, over the caramel and pecans.

5. Let the Rolls Rise:

• Cover the baking dish with a clean towel and let the rolls rise for 30-45 minutes until they are puffy and have nearly doubled in size.

6. Bake the Rolls:

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

• Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown on top and cooked through.

7. Serve:

• Once the rolls are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.

• Carefully flip the baking dish over onto a large platter or tray to release the sticky caramel pecan topping.

• Serve warm and enjoy the gooey, sweet deliciousness!