Great-Grandmother’s Caramel Rolls – A 1920s Family Recipe
Some recipes are more than just instructions—they carry the stories, warmth, and traditions of generations before us. These Caramel Rolls come straight from the kitchen of Great-Grandmother Vienna Mack, an Oklahoma native from the 1920s. This cherished family recipe has been passed down and perfected over time, bringing joy to every table it graces.
There’s something special about making these rolls from scratch, knowing that they’ve been enjoyed for over a century. They are soft, pillowy, and drenched in a luscious homemade caramel sauce, topped with crunchy pecans for the perfect balance of texture and flavor.
If you’re ready to bake like Grandma did, grab your apron, and let’s get started! Don’t forget to proof your yeast first—bad yeast can ruin the whole batch!
Why You’ll Love These Caramel Rolls
✔ A time-honored recipe – Straight from a 1920s Oklahoma kitchen.
✔ Soft & fluffy texture – Perfectly kneaded and proofed dough for the best rise.
✔ Buttery caramel topping – Sweet, sticky, and oh-so-delicious.
✔ Perfect for holidays & gatherings – A family favorite for breakfast or dessert.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 1 packet dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp)
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup shortening
- 6 cups flour
- 2 cups warm water (around 110°F)
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Caramel Topping:
- 4 tablespoons vinegar
- 4 tablespoons water
- 4 tablespoons corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups brown sugar
- 1 cup chopped pecans (optional, but highly recommended!)
Instructions
Step 1: Proof the Yeast
- In a small bowl, mix warm water, yeast, and 1 teaspoon sugar. Stir and let sit for 5-10 minutes until bubbly and foamy. This means the yeast is active!
Step 2: Make the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine sugar, shortening, flour, and salt.
- Pour in the yeast mixture and knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic.
- Cover with a towel and let rise in a warm spot for about an hour until doubled in size.
Step 3: Shape the Rolls
- Once risen, punch down the dough and roll it out to about 1/3-inch thickness.
- Sprinkle brown sugar evenly across the surface.
- Roll the dough into a log and slice into 1 1/2-inch thick rolls.
Step 4: Make the Caramel Topping
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine vinegar, water, corn syrup, vanilla, and brown sugar.
- Stir continuously and let the mixture boil for a few minutes until thickened.
- Pour the caramel sauce into a greased baking dish and sprinkle with pecans.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
- Place the sliced rolls on top of the caramel mixture in the baking dish.
- Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 375°F and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
Step 6: Flip & Serve
- Let the rolls cool for 5 minutes, then carefully invert onto a serving platter.
- The caramel sauce will now be on top, making them irresistibly sticky and delicious.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
- Proof your yeast! If the yeast doesn’t bubble, it’s inactive, and you’ll need to start over.
- For extra gooey rolls, drizzle more caramel sauce on top before serving.
- Make-ahead option: Prepare the rolls the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Let them come to room temperature before baking.
- For a nut-free version, simply omit the pecans.
The Legacy of Great-Grandmother’s Caramel Rolls
There’s something magical about baking a recipe that’s been loved for over a century. These caramel rolls have been made the same way since the 1920s, bringing families together over warm, sticky, buttery goodness.
Baking these rolls is like stepping back in time, honoring the generations before us while creating new memories for the future. Whether you’re making them for a holiday breakfast, Sunday brunch, or a cozy family gathering, they’re sure to be a hit!
Final Thoughts
We’re honored to share this treasured family recipe with you. If you try it, let us know how it turns out—did it bring back any memories of baking with loved ones? Drop a comment below!
