Honey Bun Cake Recipe

Picture this: you walk into your kitchen, and the warm scent of cinnamon and vanilla fills the air. You know exactly what it is—the freshly baked honey bun cake resting on the countertop, its sugary glaze glistening in the light. This simple, yet utterly delightful cake is perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy morning treat, a special dessert for a family gathering, or a charming addition to your next brunch.

If you’re looking for a cake that’s easy to make, incredibly delicious, and guaranteed to bring smiles, look no further than this honey bun cake recipe. With its rich cinnamon swirl, tender crumb, and gooey glaze, this cake will soon become your go-to dessert. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is designed to be foolproof, providing the perfect balance of sweet and comforting flavors in every bite.

Let’s dive into the recipe, so you can make this irresistible honey bun cake right in your own kitchen.

What Is a Honey Bun Cake?

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s first understand what a honey bun cake is. Inspired by the classic honey bun pastry, this cake combines the rich, sugary goodness of a honey bun with the moist texture of the cake. It’s topped with a simple glaze, just like the traditional honey bun, making it a perfect treat for any sweet tooth.

This cake is often associated with Southern comfort food, and for good reason. It’s the kind of dessert that brings people together—whether it’s served as a morning treat with your coffee or as the star of your family gathering. The combination of cake, cinnamon swirl, and sweet glaze is a nostalgic favorite, sure to satisfy your cravings every time.

Key Ingredients for the Perfect Honey Bun Cake

The beauty of this honey bun cake recipe lies in its simplicity. You won’t need a long list of complex ingredients. Instead, you’ll use familiar, easy-to-find pantry staples to create a cake that tastes like it took hours to make. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients Table:

What Each Ingredient Does:

• Boxed Yellow Cake Mix: The base for this cake, providing a quick, easy, and moist texture without the need to measure out flour, sugar, and leavening agents.
• Eggs: Help bind the ingredients together, giving the cake structure and stability.
• Sour Cream: Adds moisture and richness to the cake, making it incredibly tender and soft.
• Vegetable Oil: Keeps the cake moist and prevents it from drying out.
• Cinnamon: Brings that signature honey bun flavor, making the cake both sweet and spicy in the best way possible.
• Brown Sugar and Granulated Sugar: These sugars contribute to the cake’s sweetness and create that classic honey bun texture.
• Butter: Adds richness and flavor to the cinnamon swirl filling.
• Powdered Sugar and Milk: Create the sweet, smooth glaze that finishes off the cake perfectly.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Honey Bun Cake

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to make your honey bun cake. Just follow these easy steps to create a cake that’s guaranteed to wow everyone.

Step 1: Get Your Ingredients Ready and Preheat the Oven

Before you get started, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray. This will ensure that your cake doesn’t stick and will come out of the pan easily once baked.

Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Swirl Filling

In a small bowl, stir together the brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter until well combined. This will create the cinnamon swirl that gives your cake its delicious, gooey center. Set this mixture aside for now.

Step 3: Mix the Cake Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together the boxed cake mix, eggs, sour cream, vegetable oil, and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer or a whisk, blend everything together until smooth and well combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter—just stir until everything is incorporated.

Step 4: Layer the Cake and Swirl the Cinnamon Filling

Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly. Then, spoon the cinnamon mixture over the batter in several places. Use a knife or spoon to gently swirl the cinnamon filling through the batter. Add the remaining batter on top and swirl again. This will create the signature honey bun swirl effect in the cake.

Step 5: Bake the Honey Bun Cake

Place the cake in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center emerges clean. Monitor it toward the end, as oven times can vary. After baking, let the cake cool for 10-15 minutes before applying the glaze.

Step 6: Prepare the Glaze and Drizzle It Over the Cake

While the cake cools, make the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk the powdered sugar and milk together until smooth and lump-free. The glaze should have a slightly runny consistency—just enough to drizzle over the cake. Once the cake has cooled slightly, drizzle the glaze generously over the top, ensuring an even coating. The warm cake will absorb the glaze, creating a sweet, sticky coating.

Tips for Making the Best Honey Bun Cake

To ensure your honey bun cake turns out perfectly every time, here are some tips and tricks to keep in mind:

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: Since this recipe relies on just a few ingredients, it’s important to use the best ones available. Full-fat sour cream will make the cake more moist and flavorful. Fresh eggs and high-quality butter also make a noticeable difference.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining the batter, be sure to mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a dense and tough cake.
• Make the Cake Ahead of Time: If you’re prepping for a special occasion, you can make the honey bun cake the night before. Allow the cake to cool fully before covering it and storing it at room temperature. Drizzle the glaze on top right before serving for a fresh, warm treat.
• Play with the Glaze: If you prefer a richer glaze, you can substitute heavy cream for the milk. This will give the glaze a creamier texture and a more luxurious flavor.
• Storage Tips: Store leftover cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If you have any leftover glaze, you can store it in the fridge and reheat it slightly before serving.

Serving Suggestions for Honey Bun Cake

Wondering how to serve this delicious honey bun cake? Here are a few ideas:

• For Breakfast or Brunch: Pair a slice of honey bun cake with a cup of coffee or tea for a warm and comforting start to your day. You can also pair it with fresh fruit, like berries, to balance the sweetness.
• As a Dessert, this cake is perfect on its own, but to elevate it, serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
• For Parties or Gatherings: Slice the cake into squares and serve it at your next gathering. It’s a surefire crowd-pleaser that will vanish in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Honey Bun Cake Recipe

• Moist and Tender: Thanks to the sour cream and oil, this cake is incredibly moist and stays fresh for days.
• Cinnamon Swirl Perfection: The rich cinnamon swirl adds a touch of spice and sweetness that perfectly complements the cake’s flavor.
• Easy and Quick: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, this honey bun cake comes together in no time.

Honey Bun Cake FAQs

Conclusion

Whether you’re making it for breakfast, dessert, or just because you’re craving something sweet, this honey bun cake is sure to impress. With its soft, tender crumb, gooey cinnamon swirl, and sweet glaze, it’s a recipe you’ll want to return to time and time again.

Don’t wait—gather your ingredients and get baking! Share your results with us and let us know how your honey bun cake turned out. Was it a hit with your family? We’d love to