Honey Bun Cake Clara quick dinners

Honey Bun Cake is a deliciously moist, cinnamon-swirled cake that’s inspired by the classic honey bun pastry. Made with simple pantry staples, this cake combines the comforting flavors of cinnamon, sugar, and vanilla with a sweet glaze on top, making it perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Honey Bun Cake is easy to make, starts with a cake mix, and delivers irresistible flavor in every bite. It has a soft, tender crumb with a gooey cinnamon sugar layer and a simple glaze that melts into the warm cake. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, potluck, or just a sweet treat at home, this cake is always a crowd-pleaser. It’s nostalgic, satisfying, and full of old-fashioned flavor.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Yellow cake mix
• Eggs
• Sour cream
• Vegetable oil
• Brown sugar
• Ground cinnamon
• Powdered sugar
• Milk
• Vanilla extract

directions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, mix the cake mix, eggs, sour cream, and oil until well combined and smooth.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon.
4. Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
5. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the batter.
6. Pour the remaining batter on top and spread to cover the filling.
7. Use a knife to gently swirl the layers together, creating a marbled effect.
8. Bake for 4045 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. While the cake bakes, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla to make the glaze.
10. Pour the glaze over the warm cake right out of the oven, allowing it to soak in.

Servings and timing

Servings: 1216 slices
Prep time: 10 minutes
Bake time: 4045 minutes
Total time: Approximately 55 minutes

Variations

• Cream Cheese Glaze: Add softened cream cheese to the glaze for extra richness.
• Nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts into the cinnamon layer for a crunchy texture.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon sugar mix.
• Vanilla Cake Mix: Use vanilla or spice cake mix for a slight flavor twist.
• Mini Cakes: Bake in muffin tins for individual honey bun cakes — reduce bake time accordingly.

storage/reheating

Store leftover cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
To reheat, microwave individual slices for 1015 seconds or warm in a 300°F oven until heated through.
This cake also freezes well — wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQs

What is Honey Bun Cake made of?

It typically starts with a yellow cake mix and includes sour cream, cinnamon, and a powdered sugar glaze.

Can I use homemade cake batter instead of boxed mix?

Yes, but make sure it’s equivalent to a standard 15.25 oz yellow cake mix for best results.

Why is sour cream used in this cake?

Sour cream adds moisture and richness, making the cake extra tender.

Can I make this cake without the glaze?

Yes, but the glaze adds a key sweet and sticky finish that mimics the classic honey bun.

How do I keep the cake moist?

Store it covered and avoid overbaking. The glaze also helps lock in moisture.

Is this cake supposed to be served warm or cold?

It’s delicious both ways, but warm servings enhance the gooey cinnamon flavor.

Can I add raisins or fruit to the filling?

Yes, chopped raisins or diced apples can be added to the cinnamon sugar layer.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely. It keeps well and can be made a day in advance for best flavor development.

What’s the best way to swirl the cinnamon layer?

Use a butter knife and make gentle, circular motions to marble the filling without overmixing.

Does Honey Bun Cake taste like a honey bun?

Yes, it’s inspired by the flavor and texture of honey buns — sweet, cinnamony, and comforting.

Conclusion

Honey Bun Cake is a nostalgic, easy-to-make dessert that brings all the cozy flavor of a classic honey bun into cake form. With its cinnamon swirl, tender crumb, and sweet glaze, it’s sure to be a hit for any occasion. Whether served warm with coffee or chilled from the fridge, this cake is always a comforting treat.

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