The sticky buns can be prepared the day before. After you’ve placed them in the pan, cover the sliced, uncooked buns with plastic wrap and refrigerate. The next day, place the pan in a hot-water bath to accelerate rising. Allow the buns to rise until they are touching.
To test whether the dough is ready to be baked, press it with your fingertip; if the indentation remains, the buns are ready for the oven.