If you love caramel, buttery pastry, and melt-in-your-mouth desserts, these Homemade Caramel Pinwheels are the perfect indulgence! They combine flaky dough, rich caramel filling, and a gooey texture that makes them irresistible.
These caramel pinwheels are perfect for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or a special occasion. Plus, they’re easy to make with just a few ingredients. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or yourself, this homemade caramel treat will leave everyone asking for more!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ Soft, Gooey, and Buttery – The caramel filling makes them rich and indulgent.
✔️ Easy to Make – With simple ingredients and a few steps, you’ll have a bakery-style treat at home.
✔️ Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for holidays, parties, or a cozy weekend snack.
✔️ Better Than Store-Bought – No preservatives, just pure homemade goodness!
Ingredients for Homemade Caramel Pinwheels
For the Dough:
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2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
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½ teaspoon salt
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2 tablespoons sugar
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1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) instant yeast
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½ cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)
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1 large egg
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¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
For the Caramel Filling:
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½ cup unsalted butter, melted
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¾ cup brown sugar
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1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional, but adds a great flavor)
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¼ teaspoon salt
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Caramel Topping:
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½ cup heavy cream
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½ cup brown sugar
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¼ cup butter
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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¼ teaspoon salt
Optional Toppings:
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Chopped pecans or walnuts
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Sea salt flakes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
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In a small bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
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In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
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Add the egg, softened butter, and yeast mixture to the flour.
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Mix until the dough comes together, then knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth.
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Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1-1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Make the Caramel Filling
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In a bowl, mix melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 3: Roll & Fill the Dough
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Once the dough has risen, roll it into a 12×18-inch rectangle on a floured surface.
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Spread the caramel filling evenly over the dough.
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Starting from the long side, roll the dough tightly into a log.
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Slice the log into 1-inch pinwheels.
Step 4: Make the Caramel Topping
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In a saucepan, melt butter and brown sugar over medium heat.
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Add heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt, stirring continuously until smooth.
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Pour the caramel sauce into the bottom of a greased baking dish.
Step 5: Bake the Pinwheels
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Place the sliced pinwheels on top of the caramel sauce.
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Cover and let them rise for 30 minutes.
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
Step 6: Flip & Serve
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Let the pinwheels cool for 5 minutes before flipping the pan onto a serving plate.
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Drizzle extra caramel sauce on top.
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Garnish with chopped nuts or sea salt flakes for added texture.
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Enjoy warm with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee!
Serving Ideas & Pairings
☕ With Coffee or Tea – A perfect sweet treat for breakfast or brunch.
🍦 With Ice Cream – Pair with vanilla or caramel ice cream for extra indulgence.
🍓 With Fresh Berries – Strawberries or raspberries add a refreshing balance.
Storage & Reheating Tips
📌 How to Store Leftovers
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Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
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Refrigerate for up to a week for longer shelf life.
🔥 Reheating Tips
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Microwave: Warm for 15-20 seconds before serving.
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Oven: Reheat at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Use Store-Bought Dough?
Yes! Pre-made dough like crescent roll dough or puff pastry can be used to save time.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes! Prepare the pinwheels and refrigerate overnight. Bake fresh in the morning for best results.
How Do I Prevent the Caramel from Sticking?
Line your pan with parchment paper or grease it well before adding the caramel sauce.
Can I Add Nuts to the Dough?
Absolutely! Pecans, walnuts, or almonds add a great crunch.
Can I Make These Without Sugar?
For a healthier version, use coconut sugar or a sugar substitute.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
✔️ Easy & Quick to Make – Perfect for beginners.
✔️ Gooey Caramel Flavor – Rich, buttery, and delicious.
✔️ Great for Any Occasion – Holidays, birthdays, or just because!
✔️ Make-Ahead Friendly – Prep and bake fresh in the morning.
These Homemade Caramel Pinwheels are one of the best caramel desserts you’ll ever try! Try them today and enjoy a flaky, gooey, and delicious treat.
