Maple Pecan Sticky Buns Irresistible Breakfast Treat

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Start your day right with Maple Pecan Sticky Buns—an irresistible breakfast treat! These sweet, gooey delights combine warm dough with rich maple syrup and crunchy pecans. Perfect for sharing (or not!), they’re a sure hit at any table. In this post, I’ll guide you through each step to create these mouth-watering buns, complete with tips, variations, and storage advice. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy recipe!

- 3 cups all-purpose flour - 1/4 cup granulated sugar - 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast - 1 teaspoon salt - 1/2 cup milk, warmed to about 110°F - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled - 2 large eggs, at room temperature - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1/2 cup packed brown sugar - 1/2 cup pecans, coarsely chopped - 1/2 cup pure maple syrup - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg - 1 tablespoon butter (for greasing the pan) Gather these ingredients before you start. The all-purpose flour forms the dough base. Granulated sugar adds sweetness. Active dry yeast helps the dough rise, while salt enhances flavor. Warm milk activates the yeast. Unsalted butter gives richness, and eggs add moisture. Vanilla extract boosts flavor depth. For the filling, brown sugar brings caramel notes. Chopped pecans add crunch and flavor. Pure maple syrup makes the sticky layer sweet. Ground cinnamon and nutmeg lend warmth and spice. Lastly, use butter to grease your baking dish for easy release. Each ingredient works together to create a delightful breakfast treat. {{ingredient_image_2}} - Mix 1 cup of flour, granulated sugar, yeast, and salt in a large bowl. - In a separate bowl, combine warmed milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla. Whisk until smooth. - Gradually add the milk mixture to the flour mix. Stir with a spoon until the dough starts to form. - Add the rest of the flour, half a cup at a time. Mix until a shaggy dough is formed. - Transfer the dough to a floured surface. Knead for 6 to 8 minutes until smooth. - Shape the dough into a ball. Place it in a greased bowl. - Cover the bowl with a towel and let it rise for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size. - While the dough rises, mix brown sugar, chopped pecans, maple syrup, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a small bowl. Set it aside. - Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release air. - Roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle, about 12 by 18 inches. - Spread the remaining butter over the dough. Sprinkle the maple pecan filling on top evenly. - Starting from one long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. - Cut the log into 12 equal pieces with a sharp knife. - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. - Pour any leftover maple syrup mixture into the dish. Arrange the sliced buns cut side up in the dish. - Cover the dish with a towel and let the buns rise for another 30 minutes. - Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until golden brown and your kitchen smells amazing. To make perfect sticky buns, you need the right dough. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky, but not too wet. Feel the dough as you knead it. It should bounce back when you poke it. For rising, warmth is key. Place the bowl in a warm spot, like near the oven. This helps the dough grow and become fluffy. Cover it with a towel to keep warmth in. Check for doneness by looking at the buns. They should be golden brown on top. At 25 to 30 minutes, insert a toothpick. It should come out clean. Drizzling warm maple syrup over the buns makes them shine. It adds sweetness and looks great. Use a spoon to drizzle it just before serving. Cream cheese frosting can add a rich flavor. Mix cream cheese with a little maple syrup for a tasty topping. This adds a nice contrast to the sticky buns. Garnish your buns with chopped pecans. Sprinkle them on top to add crunch. It also makes the buns look appealing on the plate. Pro Tips Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh yeast and high-quality maple syrup to enhance the flavor of your sticky buns. Perfect Rise: Ensure your dough rises in a warm environment; you can place it in an oven with just the light on for an ideal temperature. Cutting Technique: Use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut the dough log for cleaner edges and less squishing of the rolls. Serving Suggestion: Serve warm and drizzle with additional maple syrup for an extra indulgent treat that will impress your guests. {{image_4}} You can change the flavor of your sticky buns with simple swaps. Here are a few ideas: - Substituting different nuts: Try walnuts or almonds instead of pecans. You can even mix nuts for a fun texture. - Incorporating dried fruits: Add raisins, cranberries, or chopped apples to the filling. This adds sweetness and a burst of flavor. - Using different extracts: Swap vanilla extract for almond or maple extract. This gives a new twist to the classic taste. If you have special diet needs, you can still enjoy these sticky buns. - Gluten-free alternatives: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. This way, everyone can enjoy them. - Vegan substitutions: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal and use almond milk instead of regular milk. Use vegan butter too. - Lower sugar options: Cut back on brown sugar and maple syrup. You can also use a sugar substitute if you like. These variations make your Maple Pecan Sticky Buns customizable for different tastes and diets. Enjoy experimenting with your favorite flavors! - Room temperature storage: Keep your sticky buns in an airtight container. They stay fresh for about two days at room temperature. Place a paper towel inside to absorb moisture. - Refrigerating: If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate the buns. Store them in a sealed container. They can last up to five days, but they may dry out slightly. - Freezing before or after baking: You can freeze sticky buns before baking. Slice the dough and place the pieces on a baking sheet. Freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. For baked buns, let them cool first. Wrap them tightly and freeze for up to three months. - Reheating frozen buns: To reheat, thaw the buns overnight in the fridge. Bake them at 350°F for 10-15 minutes. This warms them up and makes them soft again. You can also microwave them for about 20-30 seconds if you're in a hurry. Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes, you can make the dough ahead. After kneading, let it rise. Then, cover it and keep it in the fridge overnight. This way, you can bake fresh buns in the morning. How can I make these buns more fluffy? To make your buns fluffier, ensure the dough rises well. Use warm milk to activate the yeast. Also, don't skip the second rise after cutting the buns. This extra time helps them puff up. Can I substitute maple syrup with something else? You can use honey or agave syrup as a substitute. However, these will alter the flavor slightly. Maple syrup gives a unique taste that pairs well with pecans. What do I do if my dough doesn’t rise? If your dough doesn’t rise, check your yeast's freshness. Warmth is key, so try placing it in a warm spot. If it still doesn't rise, you may need to start over with new yeast. How long can I store Maple Pecan Sticky Buns? You can store them at room temperature for 2 days. For longer storage, wrap them and place them in the fridge for up to a week. They also freeze well for up to 3 months. Making Maple Pecan Sticky Buns is fun and easy. We covered all the key ingredients, from flour to nuts. You learned step-by-step instructions for mixing, rising, and baking. I shared tips for perfecting your buns, including great ways to present them. Don’t forget about variations and storage options, too. Now, you’re ready to impress friends and family with your baking skills. Enjoy the sweet rewards of your hard work!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Comforting Flavor: The combination of maple syrup and pecans creates a warm, comforting flavor that evokes the essence of cozy mornings.
  2. Perfect for Sharing: With 12 servings, these sticky buns make a delightful treat for gatherings, brunches, or family breakfasts.
  3. Fun to Make: The process of rolling and slicing the dough is enjoyable, making it a fun baking project for all skill levels.
  4. Decadent Topping: Drizzling extra maple syrup and topping with chopped pecans turns these buns into a show-stopping dessert.

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 3 cups all-purpose flour

– 1/4 cup granulated sugar

– 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast

– 1 teaspoon salt

– 1/2 cup milk, warmed to about 110°F

– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled

– 2 large eggs, at room temperature

– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar

– 1/2 cup pecans, coarsely chopped

– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup

– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

– 1 tablespoon butter (for greasing the pan)

Gather these ingredients before you start. The all-purpose flour forms the dough base. Granulated sugar adds sweetness. Active dry yeast helps the dough rise, while salt enhances flavor. Warm milk activates the yeast. Unsalted butter gives richness, and eggs add moisture. Vanilla extract boosts flavor depth.

For the filling, brown sugar brings caramel notes. Chopped pecans add crunch and flavor. Pure maple syrup makes the sticky layer sweet. Ground cinnamon and nutmeg lend warmth and spice. Lastly, use butter to grease your baking dish for easy release. Each ingredient works together to create a delightful breakfast treat.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Dough Preparation

– Mix 1 cup of flour, granulated sugar, yeast, and salt in a large bowl.

– In a separate bowl, combine warmed milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla. Whisk until smooth.

– Gradually add the milk mixture to the flour mix. Stir with a spoon until the dough starts to form.

– Add the rest of the flour, half a cup at a time. Mix until a shaggy dough is formed.

– Transfer the dough to a floured surface. Knead for 6 to 8 minutes until smooth.

Rising the Dough

– Shape the dough into a ball. Place it in a greased bowl.

– Cover the bowl with a towel and let it rise for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

– While the dough rises, mix brown sugar, chopped pecans, maple syrup, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a small bowl. Set it aside.

Shaping the Buns

– Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release air.

– Roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle, about 12 by 18 inches.

– Spread the remaining butter over the dough. Sprinkle the maple pecan filling on top evenly.

– Starting from one long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log.

– Cut the log into 12 equal pieces with a sharp knife.

Final Rise & Baking

– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.

– Pour any leftover maple syrup mixture into the dish. Arrange the sliced buns cut side up in the dish.

– Cover the dish with a towel and let the buns rise for another 30 minutes.

– Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until golden brown and your kitchen smells amazing.

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting Your Sticky Buns

To make perfect sticky buns, you need the right dough. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky, but not too wet. Feel the dough as you knead it. It should bounce back when you poke it.

For rising, warmth is key. Place the bowl in a warm spot, like near the oven. This helps the dough grow and become fluffy. Cover it with a towel to keep warmth in.

Check for doneness by looking at the buns. They should be golden brown on top. At 25 to 30 minutes, insert a toothpick. It should come out clean.

Presentation Tips

Drizzling warm maple syrup over the buns makes them shine. It adds sweetness and looks great. Use a spoon to drizzle it just before serving.

Cream cheese frosting can add a rich flavor. Mix cream cheese with a little maple syrup for a tasty topping. This adds a nice contrast to the sticky buns.

Garnish your buns with chopped pecans. Sprinkle them on top to add crunch. It also makes the buns look appealing on the plate.

Pro Tips

  1. Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh yeast and high-quality maple syrup to enhance the flavor of your sticky buns.
  2. Perfect Rise: Ensure your dough rises in a warm environment; you can place it in an oven with just the light on for an ideal temperature.
  3. Cutting Technique: Use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut the dough log for cleaner edges and less squishing of the rolls.
  4. Serving Suggestion: Serve warm and drizzle with additional maple syrup for an extra indulgent treat that will impress your guests.

Variations

Flavor Additions

You can change the flavor of your sticky buns with simple swaps. Here are a few ideas:

Substituting different nuts: Try walnuts or almonds instead of pecans. You can even mix nuts for a fun texture.

Incorporating dried fruits: Add raisins, cranberries, or chopped apples to the filling. This adds sweetness and a burst of flavor.

Using different extracts: Swap vanilla extract for almond or maple extract. This gives a new twist to the classic taste.

Dietary Modifications

If you have special diet needs, you can still enjoy these sticky buns.

Gluten-free alternatives: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. This way, everyone can enjoy them.

Vegan substitutions: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal and use almond milk instead of regular milk. Use vegan butter too.

Lower sugar options: Cut back on brown sugar and maple syrup. You can also use a sugar substitute if you like.

These variations make your Maple Pecan Sticky Buns customizable for different tastes and diets. Enjoy experimenting with your favorite flavors!

Storage Info

Storing Leftover Buns

Room temperature storage: Keep your sticky buns in an airtight container. They stay fresh for about two days at room temperature. Place a paper towel inside to absorb moisture.

Refrigerating: If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate the buns. Store them in a sealed container. They can last up to five days, but they may dry out slightly.

Freezing Tips

Freezing before or after baking: You can freeze sticky buns before baking. Slice the dough and place the pieces on a baking sheet. Freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. For baked buns, let them cool first. Wrap them tightly and freeze for up to three months.

Reheating frozen buns: To reheat, thaw the buns overnight in the fridge. Bake them at 350°F for 10-15 minutes. This warms them up and makes them soft again. You can also microwave them for about 20-30 seconds if you’re in a hurry.

FAQs

Common Questions

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the dough ahead. After kneading, let it rise. Then, cover it and keep it in the fridge overnight. This way, you can bake fresh buns in the morning.

How can I make these buns more fluffy?

To make your buns fluffier, ensure the dough rises well. Use warm milk to activate the yeast. Also, don’t skip the second rise after cutting the buns. This extra time helps them puff up.

Can I substitute maple syrup with something else?

You can use honey or agave syrup as a substitute. However, these will alter the flavor slightly. Maple syrup gives a unique taste that pairs well with pecans.

What do I do if my dough doesn’t rise?

If your dough doesn’t rise, check your yeast’s freshness. Warmth is key, so try placing it in a warm spot. If it still doesn’t rise, you may need to start over with new yeast.

How long can I store Maple Pecan Sticky Buns?

You can store them at room temperature for 2 days. For longer storage, wrap them and place them in the fridge for up to a week. They also freeze well for up to 3 months.

Making Maple Pecan Sticky Buns is fun and easy. We covered all the key ingredients, from flour to nuts. You learned step-by-step instructions for mixing, rising, and baking. I shared tips for perfecting your buns, including great ways to present them. Don’t forget about variations and storage options, too.

Now, you’re ready to impress friends and family with your baking skills. Enjoy the sweet rewards of your hard wor

- 3 cups all-purpose flour - 1/4 cup granulated sugar - 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast - 1 teaspoon salt - 1/2 cup milk, warmed to about 110°F - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled - 2 large eggs, at room temperature - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1/2 cup packed brown sugar - 1/2 cup pecans, coarsely chopped - 1/2 cup pure maple syrup - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg - 1 tablespoon butter (for greasing the pan) Gather these ingredients before you start. The all-purpose flour forms the dough base. Granulated sugar adds sweetness. Active dry yeast helps the dough rise, while salt enhances flavor. Warm milk activates the yeast. Unsalted butter gives richness, and eggs add moisture. Vanilla extract boosts flavor depth. For the filling, brown sugar brings caramel notes. Chopped pecans add crunch and flavor. Pure maple syrup makes the sticky layer sweet. Ground cinnamon and nutmeg lend warmth and spice. Lastly, use butter to grease your baking dish for easy release. Each ingredient works together to create a delightful breakfast treat. {{ingredient_image_2}} - Mix 1 cup of flour, granulated sugar, yeast, and salt in a large bowl. - In a separate bowl, combine warmed milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla. Whisk until smooth. - Gradually add the milk mixture to the flour mix. Stir with a spoon until the dough starts to form. - Add the rest of the flour, half a cup at a time. Mix until a shaggy dough is formed. - Transfer the dough to a floured surface. Knead for 6 to 8 minutes until smooth. - Shape the dough into a ball. Place it in a greased bowl. - Cover the bowl with a towel and let it rise for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size. - While the dough rises, mix brown sugar, chopped pecans, maple syrup, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a small bowl. Set it aside. - Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release air. - Roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle, about 12 by 18 inches. - Spread the remaining butter over the dough. Sprinkle the maple pecan filling on top evenly. - Starting from one long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. - Cut the log into 12 equal pieces with a sharp knife. - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. - Pour any leftover maple syrup mixture into the dish. Arrange the sliced buns cut side up in the dish. - Cover the dish with a towel and let the buns rise for another 30 minutes. - Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until golden brown and your kitchen smells amazing. To make perfect sticky buns, you need the right dough. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky, but not too wet. Feel the dough as you knead it. It should bounce back when you poke it. For rising, warmth is key. Place the bowl in a warm spot, like near the oven. This helps the dough grow and become fluffy. Cover it with a towel to keep warmth in. Check for doneness by looking at the buns. They should be golden brown on top. At 25 to 30 minutes, insert a toothpick. It should come out clean. Drizzling warm maple syrup over the buns makes them shine. It adds sweetness and looks great. Use a spoon to drizzle it just before serving. Cream cheese frosting can add a rich flavor. Mix cream cheese with a little maple syrup for a tasty topping. This adds a nice contrast to the sticky buns. Garnish your buns with chopped pecans. Sprinkle them on top to add crunch. It also makes the buns look appealing on the plate. Pro Tips Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh yeast and high-quality maple syrup to enhance the flavor of your sticky buns. Perfect Rise: Ensure your dough rises in a warm environment; you can place it in an oven with just the light on for an ideal temperature. Cutting Technique: Use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut the dough log for cleaner edges and less squishing of the rolls. Serving Suggestion: Serve warm and drizzle with additional maple syrup for an extra indulgent treat that will impress your guests. {{image_4}} You can change the flavor of your sticky buns with simple swaps. Here are a few ideas: - Substituting different nuts: Try walnuts or almonds instead of pecans. You can even mix nuts for a fun texture. - Incorporating dried fruits: Add raisins, cranberries, or chopped apples to the filling. This adds sweetness and a burst of flavor. - Using different extracts: Swap vanilla extract for almond or maple extract. This gives a new twist to the classic taste. If you have special diet needs, you can still enjoy these sticky buns. - Gluten-free alternatives: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. This way, everyone can enjoy them. - Vegan substitutions: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal and use almond milk instead of regular milk. Use vegan butter too. - Lower sugar options: Cut back on brown sugar and maple syrup. You can also use a sugar substitute if you like. These variations make your Maple Pecan Sticky Buns customizable for different tastes and diets. Enjoy experimenting with your favorite flavors! - Room temperature storage: Keep your sticky buns in an airtight container. They stay fresh for about two days at room temperature. Place a paper towel inside to absorb moisture. - Refrigerating: If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate the buns. Store them in a sealed container. They can last up to five days, but they may dry out slightly. - Freezing before or after baking: You can freeze sticky buns before baking. Slice the dough and place the pieces on a baking sheet. Freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. For baked buns, let them cool first. Wrap them tightly and freeze for up to three months. - Reheating frozen buns: To reheat, thaw the buns overnight in the fridge. Bake them at 350°F for 10-15 minutes. This warms them up and makes them soft again. You can also microwave them for about 20-30 seconds if you're in a hurry. Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes, you can make the dough ahead. After kneading, let it rise. Then, cover it and keep it in the fridge overnight. This way, you can bake fresh buns in the morning. How can I make these buns more fluffy? To make your buns fluffier, ensure the dough rises well. Use warm milk to activate the yeast. Also, don't skip the second rise after cutting the buns. This extra time helps them puff up. Can I substitute maple syrup with something else? You can use honey or agave syrup as a substitute. However, these will alter the flavor slightly. Maple syrup gives a unique taste that pairs well with pecans. What do I do if my dough doesn’t rise? If your dough doesn’t rise, check your yeast's freshness. Warmth is key, so try placing it in a warm spot. If it still doesn't rise, you may need to start over with new yeast. How long can I store Maple Pecan Sticky Buns? You can store them at room temperature for 2 days. For longer storage, wrap them and place them in the fridge for up to a week. They also freeze well for up to 3 months. Making Maple Pecan Sticky Buns is fun and easy. We covered all the key ingredients, from flour to nuts. You learned step-by-step instructions for mixing, rising, and baking. I shared tips for perfecting your buns, including great ways to present them. Don’t forget about variations and storage options, too. Now, you’re ready to impress friends and family with your baking skills. Enjoy the sweet rewards of your hard work!

Maple Pecan Sticky Buns

Deliciously sweet and sticky buns filled with maple and pecans, perfect for breakfast or dessert.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 0.25 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 cup milk, warmed to about 110°F
  • 0.25 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
  • 2 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 0.5 cup packed brown sugar
  • 0.5 cup pecans, coarsely chopped
  • 0.5 cup pure maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 0.25 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 tablespoon butter (for greasing the pan)

Instructions
 

  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of flour, granulated sugar, active dry yeast, and salt until well combined. This will serve as the base for your dough.
  • In a separate medium bowl, combine the warmed milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.
  • Gradually pour the milk mixture into the flour mixture, stirring with a wooden spoon or spatula until the ingredients start to come together.
  • Begin adding the remaining flour, 1/2 cup at a time, mixing until a shaggy dough forms. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 6-8 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
  • Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and allow it to rise in a warm area for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
  • In a small bowl, combine the packed brown sugar, chopped pecans, maple syrup, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg, mixing until well blended. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
  • Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles, then roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle measuring approximately 12 x 18 inches.
  • Evenly spread the remaining tablespoon of butter over the surface of the rolled dough. Sprinkle the maple pecan mixture generously on top, ensuring even coverage.
  • Starting from one long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Once rolled, slice the log into 12 equal pieces using a sharp knife or a dough cutter.
  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Pour any remaining maple syrup mixture into the bottom of the dish, then arrange the sliced buns cut side up in the prepared baking dish.
  • Cover the dish with a towel and let the buns rise for an additional 30 minutes, allowing them to gain some extra fluffiness.
  • Once the buns have risen, place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the aroma fills your kitchen.
  • Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow the buns to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Carefully invert the baking dish onto a serving platter, allowing the sticky buns to fall out onto the platter.

Notes

For a show-stopping finish, drizzle extra maple syrup over the warm buns and top with a sprinkle of additional chopped pecans. Serve them warm alongside a dollop of cream cheese frosting for a delightful, indulgent treat!
Keyword breakfast, dessert, maple, pecans, sticky buns

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