Combine yeast, a pinch of sugar, and warm milk in a mixer bowl; let stand 5 minutes until foamy.

Add remaining sugar, melted butter, egg yolks, honey, and vanilla; mix until blended.

Mix in flour and salt.

Knead at medium speed until dough forms a smooth ball, about 4 minutes.

Brush a large bowl with butter.

Add the dough and brush the top with butter.

Cover and let stand in a warm place until doubled in volume, about 1 hour.

Butter a 9x13 inch baking dish.

Melt honey, brown sugar, and butter in a saucepan until sugar dissolves, about 1 minute.

Pour honey mixture into baking dish and sprinkle with pecans.

Mix sugar and cinnamon in a bowl.

Roll out dough to a 12x18 inch rectangle on a floured surface.

Spread butter over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border.

Sprinkle dough with cinnamon sugar.

Roll the dough into a log, seam side down.

Cut into 12 slices.

Arrange slices cut side up, in the baking dish.

Cover and let stand in a warm place until buns double in volume, about 1 hour.

Preheat oven to 350°F.

Bake for about 35 minutes, until golden brown.

Remove from oven and let stand for 5 minutes.

Invert buns onto a baking sheet and let cool slightly.

Serve warm.