The exact origins of the sticky bun are debatable, as is the history of National Sticky Bun Day. While some attribute the sticky bun to the Ancient Egyptians, others argue that it may have originated in Germany. Some historians say that they may have been around in the Western World since the Middle Ages, when cinnamon became a more prominent spice in these regions.

However, one thing that is agreed on is that German settlers brought the sticky bun to Pennsylvania in the United States. Specifically, they seem to have been brought and popularized through the Pennsylvania Dutch (Deutsch), many of whom were fleeing religious persecution during the 1700s. These pastries were originally called ‘schnecken’ and are now considered to be a specialty of Philadelphia. 

When it comes to sticky buns, some clarifications may need to be made since many questions seem to come along with them. One of the main questions is this: what is the difference between sticky buns and cinnamon rolls?

While the answers may be as varied as the people who are asked, many people believe that the difference is nuts. Literally, the addition of nuts is what turns a plain old “cinnamon roll” into a “sticky bun”. These nuts are typically pecans but could be of another variety as well. 

In addition, sticky buns are (yes, you guessed it), stickier. This is because, before they are baked, a caramel glaze is prepared that is poured into the baking dish with nuts prior to adding the dough rolls. Then, when the baking is finished, the rolls are flipped upside down, leaving the sticky, gooey, nutty goodness all on the top of the buns.

Since they don’t have the sticky glaze, cinnamon rolls don’t need to be turned upside down. Instead, they usually have a powdered sugar glaze that is drizzled on the top to give a sweet finish.