What Makes Grilled Stickies So Special?
Let me tell you a little secret. When I first stumbled upon grilled stickies, it was at a family barbecue where my cousin decided to “experiment” with dessert. Imagine this: golden, gooey, buttery rolls grilled to perfection and dripping with cinnamon-sugar goodness. At first bite, I knew these weren’t just any sticky buns—they were a game-changer. Since then, I’ve made them countless times for my own family and friends, and they never fail to steal the show. If you’ve ever wondered, What are grilled stickies?, think of them as the love child of a campfire treat and a bakery classic. And no, they’re not discontinued at Eat N Park—phew!
A Bite of History: Where Did Grilled Stickies Come From?
Grilled stickies have humble beginnings. They started as a twist on traditional sticky buns, which trace their roots back to German and Dutch settlers in Pennsylvania. These settlers brought recipes for sweet, spiced rolls that evolved into what we now know as sticky buns. The grilling twist? That’s modern magic. It adds a smoky depth and caramelized crunch that feels like summer on a plate. I even tracked down the answer to Who makes grilled stickies? Turns out, they’re often homemade or sold by local bakeries. If you’re in Philly, you can find them at specialty shops if you know where to look (hint: check Where to buy grilled stickies in Philadelphia?).
Why You’ll Fall Head Over Heels for This Recipe
These grilled stickies are pure joy. They’re rich but not overwhelming, sweet but balanced, and ridiculously easy to make. Plus, they’re perfect for anyone who loves that mix of crispy edges and soft centers. The smell alone will make your kitchen feel like a warm hug. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be hooked.
Perfect Occasions for Grilled Stickies
From backyard BBQs to cozy brunches, these treats fit everywhere. Serve them at birthday parties, holiday gatherings, or even as a midnight snack after a long day. They’re versatile enough to shine during any season, especially when paired with ice cream in summer or hot cocoa in winter.
Ingredients
- 1 package refrigerated cinnamon roll dough (or homemade)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Substitution Options
- Use maple syrup instead of honey for a deeper flavor.
- Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds if preferred.
- For a vegan version, use plant-based butter and dairy-free dough.
Preparation Section
Step 1: Preheat Your Grill
Start by heating your grill to medium-low heat. You want it warm enough to caramelize the sugars without burning the rolls. Pro tip: Place a piece of foil on the grill grate to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. While the grill heats up, prep your ingredients so everything is ready to go.
Step 2: Prep the Dough
Unroll the cinnamon roll dough and cut each roll into quarters. This creates bite-sized pieces perfect for skewering. Brush each piece lightly with melted butter—it helps the sugar adhere and gives the rolls their signature golden glow. The aroma of cinnamon mixing with the butter is intoxicating!
Step 3: Skewer and Sweeten
Thread the dough pieces onto skewers, leaving a little space between each one for even cooking. In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon. Roll each skewered piece in the mixture until fully coated. Drizzle honey over the top for extra stickiness. Don’t skimp here; this step is key to achieving that addictive sweetness.
Step 4: Grill to Perfection
Carefully place the skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the dough puffs up and turns golden brown. Keep an eye on them—if they start to darken too quickly, move them to a cooler part of the grill. Chef’s tip: Add a sprinkle of chopped pecans while grilling for added texture and nutty flavor.
Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Chef’s Secret
To take your grilled stickies to the next level, drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk over the finished rolls. Let it set for a minute before serving—it adds a professional bakery touch.
Extra Info
Did you know that sticky buns were originally served as a breakfast item? Back in the day, bakers would prepare them overnight, letting the dough rise slowly before baking in the morning. Today, we’ve adapted them for all-day enjoyment, especially when grilled!
Necessary Equipment
- Grill or stovetop grill pan
- Wooden or metal skewers
- Basting brush
- Mixing bowls
Storage
Store leftover grilled stickies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to restore their gooey goodness.
If you need to store them longer, wrap individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to a month. Thaw at room temperature before reheating.
Never refrigerate these treats—it dries them out faster than you can say “sticky bun.”
Tips and Advice
- Don’t overcrowd the grill; give each skewer space to cook evenly.
- Experiment with different sugars, like coconut sugar, for unique flavors.
- Always let the dough come to room temperature before grilling for better texture.
Presentation Tips
- Serve on a rustic wooden board for a charming look.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves or edible flowers for a pop of color.
- Pair with a side of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert experience.
Healthier Alternative Recipes
Looking to lighten things up? Here are six variations:
- Gluten-Free Grilled Stickies: Use gluten-free cinnamon roll dough and follow the same steps.
- Low-Sugar Option: Replace brown sugar with a sugar substitute like monk fruit.
- Vegan Version: Opt for plant-based butter and dough.
- Fruit-Infused: Add diced apples or berries to the skewers before grilling.
- Protein-Packed: Mix protein powder into the glaze for an energy boost.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sugar mix for a spicy kick.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake 1: Burning the Sugar Coating
This happens when the grill is too hot. Sugar burns easily, so keep the heat low and watch closely. A practical tip: Use indirect heat zones on your grill to control cooking speed.
Mistake 2: Skipping the Foil
Without foil, the sticky buns may stick to the grill and fall apart. Always line the grill grate with foil brushed lightly with oil.
Mistake 3: Overloading the Skewers
Packing too much dough onto one skewer prevents even cooking. Leave gaps between each piece to ensure proper caramelization.
FAQ
What are grilled stickies?
Grilled stickies are a fun twist on traditional sticky buns. They’re skewered and cooked on a grill, giving them a smoky, caramelized flavor. Perfect for outdoor gatherings or lazy weekends, they combine the best of both worlds: sweet treats and grilling.
Are grilled stickies discontinued at Eat N Park?
Nope! As of my last update, they’re still available. But if you can’t find them locally, making them at home is super easy—and tastier, too.
Who makes grilled stickies?
Many home cooks and local bakeries whip up their own versions. Some restaurants also feature them seasonally, especially in areas with strong sticky bun traditions.
Where to buy grilled stickies in Philadelphia?
Check out Reading Terminal Market or local bakeries like Beiler’s Bakery. They might not call them “grilled,” but you can adapt their sticky buns for grilling.
Can I make grilled stickies indoors?
Absolutely! Use a stovetop grill pan for similar results. Just be mindful of ventilation since sugar can get smoky.
How do I prevent my stickies from being too greasy?
Use just enough butter to coat—not drown—the dough. Too much butter leads to soggy bottoms.
Do I have to use cinnamon rolls?
Not necessarily. Brioche or challah dough works well too, though you’ll need to add your own cinnamon-sugar mix.
What’s the best way to serve grilled stickies?
Warm, straight off the grill, with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream. Pure bliss!
Can kids help make these?
Definitely! Kids love rolling the dough and sprinkling the sugar. Just supervise near the grill.
Why are mine falling apart on the grill?
Make sure your dough isn’t too soft. Chill it slightly before threading onto skewers to hold its shape.
Final Thoughts
There’s something magical about grilled stickies. Whether you’re sharing them at a party or enjoying them solo, they bring people together in the best way possible. With this recipe, you don’t need fancy skills—just a love for good food and a willingness to experiment. So fire up that grill, grab some dough, and let’s get sticky!
Grilled Stickies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your grill to medium-low heat.
- Unroll the cinnamon roll dough and cut each roll into quarters.
- Brush each piece lightly with melted butter.
- Thread the dough pieces onto skewers, leaving space between each one.
- In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon.
- Roll each skewered piece in the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture.
- Drizzle honey over the top of the dough pieces.
- Carefully place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown.
- Serve warm. Enjoy your grilled stickies!