Honey Bun Cake Recipe: If you’re a fan of sweet, cinnamon-spiced treats that melt in your mouth and make your kitchen smell like a dream, then the Honey Bun Cake is about to become your new best friend. Inspired by the classic snack cake, this Southern favorite combines the rich flavor of cinnamon rolls with the simplicity of a boxed cake mix, creating a moist, gooey dessert that tastes like it’s straight from grandma’s oven.
So, what exactly is a Honey Bun Cake? It’s essentially a buttery yellow cake layered with a brown sugar and cinnamon swirl, then topped with a sweet glaze that sinks into every crevice, making each bite sticky, soft, and absolutely divine. It’s often served as a breakfast treat, dessert, or even as a coffee-time snack.
Originating in the American South, the Honey Bun Cake is a comforting, nostalgic treat that brings families together around the table. It became popular in the 1970s and ’80s, gaining fame for being a quick, reliable, and delicious go-to recipe that even beginner bakers could master. Today, it’s a must-have at potlucks, holidays, and Sunday brunches.
This guide will take you through every step, ensuring you end up with the perfect Honey Bun Cake every single time. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned baker, this recipe will feel like a warm hug from your kitchen.
Ingredients Needed
Before we dive into the baking process, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need. One of the best things about Honey Bun Cake is that it’s made with simple pantry staples, so there’s a good chance you already have most of these on hand.
Main Ingredients:
- 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream (full fat for extra richness)
- ¾ cup vegetable oil
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
These ingredients create a moist, dense cake base that’s not too sweet but still rich and satisfying.
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- ⅔ cup brown sugar (light or dark works fine)
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- Optional: ½ teaspoon nutmeg (adds a warm depth)
This mixture gives that signature swirl that sets Honey Bun Cake apart.
For the Glaze:
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 4 tablespoons milk (adjust for desired thickness)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
The glaze is the final touch that seeps into the cake, locking in the moisture and adding that perfect hint of sweetness on top.
Optional Add-ins or Variations:
- Chopped pecans or walnuts for a nutty crunch
- Maple extract instead of vanilla in the glaze for a twist
- Drizzle of honey over the glaze for an extra honey-kissed finish
Make sure to measure everything out before you start so you can move through the recipe without scrambling around your kitchen.
Tools and Equipment
You don’t need a fancy kitchen setup to make a Honey Bun Cake. That’s part of the charm—it’s an easy, approachable dessert that’s perfect for any home cook.
Basic Tools:
- Mixing bowls (at least two, one for wet and one for dry ingredients)
- Hand or stand mixer (optional but makes mixing easier)
- Whisk and spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 9×13 inch baking dish
This size pan is perfect for ensuring the cake bakes evenly and has enough room to rise without overflowing.
Optional Tools:
- Electric hand mixer or stand mixer (for quicker blending)
- Sifter (if you want an extra light cake texture)
- Toothpick or skewer (for testing doneness and swirling the cinnamon)
Don’t have a 9×13 dish? You can use two 8×8 pans instead—just be sure to adjust baking times slightly and keep an eye on them.
Preparing the Batter
Let’s get to the fun part—actually making this sweet masterpiece! Getting the batter just right is key to a moist, fluffy cake with that perfect cinnamon swirl.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Your Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease your 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. You can also line it with parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- 4 eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- ¾ cup vegetable oil
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
Mix until the texture is creamy and smooth. The sour cream is what gives this cake that unbeatable moistness.
Step 3: Add the Cake Mix
Now, slowly add the yellow cake mix into your wet ingredients. You can use a mixer on low speed or do this by hand. Mix just until everything is well combined—don’t overmix or your cake could turn out dense.
The final batter should be thick but pourable, with a pale yellow color and smooth texture.
Creating the Cinnamon Swirl
This is the heart of the Honey Bun Cake—the part that gives it that signature gooey cinnamon flavor.
Step 1: Mix the Swirl Ingredients
In a small bowl, stir together:
- ⅔ cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- Optional: ½ teaspoon nutmeg
This mixture should be clump-free and evenly blended so it swirls smoothly into the batter.
Step 2: Layer the Swirl
Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula.
Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over this first layer. Don’t dump it all in one place—distribute it as evenly as you can.
Then, pour the remaining cake batter on top and gently spread it out to cover the cinnamon layer.
Step 3: Swirl It!
Take a butter knife or a skewer and gently swirl through the batter in an “S” or circular pattern. You don’t want to overdo it—just enough to create ribbons of cinnamon throughout the cake.
The swirl will bake into gooey pockets of cinnamon sugar that give the Honey Bun Cake its irresistible texture and flavor.
Baking the Honey Bun Cake
Now that your batter is swirled and ready, it’s time to get this beauty into the oven and let the magic happen. Baking is where all the ingredients marry together into that golden, fluffy goodness we all love.
Step 1: Bake to Perfection
Place your cake in the preheated oven at 325°F (165°C) and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s ready. Avoid opening the oven door too often, as that can cause the cake to sink.
What you’re aiming for is a light golden-brown top with some deeper golden edges, and the cinnamon layer should create gooey pockets throughout the cake.
Step 2: Cooling Time
Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 10 to 15 minutes. You want it to still be warm but not hot when you add the glaze—that way it absorbs perfectly without melting away too fast.
Making the Sweet Glaze
The glaze is the final touch that makes this cake truly unforgettable. It’s sweet, silky, and seeps beautifully into the top layer of the cake, adding moisture and flavor in every bite.
Step 1: Mix the Glaze
In a medium bowl, whisk together:
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 4 tablespoons milk (start with 3 and add more if needed for the right consistency)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
You’re looking for a smooth, pourable consistency. Not too runny, not too thick—just enough to coat the back of a spoon.
Want a twist? Try using almond or maple extract instead of vanilla, or even a dash of cinnamon in the glaze for extra flavor depth.
Step 2: Glaze the Cake
While the cake is still warm, drizzle the glaze generously over the top. You can use a spoon or pour it from a small pitcher. Watch as it slowly seeps into the cracks and settles into a glossy finish.
Let the cake sit another 15 to 20 minutes so the glaze can set before slicing. Patience pays off here—the longer it sits, the better it tastes.
Serving Suggestions
Honey Bun Cake is a versatile dessert that’s good at room temperature, chilled, or even slightly warmed up. It’s rich and sweet, so a little goes a long way.
Serve it with:
- A hot cup of coffee or espresso for a perfect breakfast or brunch pairing
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for dessert
- A side of fresh berries to balance the sweetness
You can slice it into squares, bars, or even cute mini cake bites for parties. It’s casual enough for a snack, but classy enough to bring to a potluck or serve at a brunch gathering.
Want to get fancy? Dust a little powdered sugar over the top for a bakery-style look.
Storing Your Honey Bun Cake
Let’s face it—this cake probably won’t last long once people get a taste. But if you do have leftovers, here’s how to keep them fresh.
Storage Tips:
- Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: Keeps well for up to a week. Just make sure it’s sealed to retain moisture.
- Freezer: Slice into portions, wrap individually, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or pop in the microwave for 30 seconds.
Always make sure the cake is completely cooled before sealing it to avoid sogginess. And trust me—it’s just as good (if not better) the next day.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Honey Bun Cake
Even though this cake is super easy to make, there are a few tips that can help you get bakery-level results every time.
1. Don’t overmix the batter.
Once you add the cake mix to the wet ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing leads to a dense cake.
2. Use full-fat sour cream.
This is your moisture-maker. It adds richness and keeps the cake from drying out.
3. Don’t skip the swirl.
Make sure to actually swirl the cinnamon layer into the batter—don’t just layer it. That swirl creates gooey streaks of flavor throughout.
4. Glaze while warm.
Glazing a warm cake allows the icing to melt slightly and seep into the cake, locking in moisture and flavor.
5. Let it rest.
It’s tempting to dig in right away, but letting the cake cool and set allows all the flavors to develop and the glaze to settle.
Customizing Your Honey Bun Cake
One of the most beautiful things about the Honey Bun Cake is how adaptable it is. Whether you want to tweak it for dietary needs, add a personal twist, or make it a bit more gourmet, the possibilities are endless.
1. Go Nutty
Chopped pecans or walnuts make an excellent addition to the cinnamon swirl or as a topping. They add a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft, moist cake.
- Add ½ cup chopped nuts to the cinnamon-sugar mixture
- Sprinkle some on top of the glaze for an elegant finish
2. Add a Fruity Touch
Want something a little fresher? Try folding in small chunks of apple, pear, or even ripe bananas into the batter. It gives a lovely fruit-forward bite and pairs perfectly with the cinnamon notes.
- Diced apples can go in the batter or on top of the swirl layer
- Bananas should be mashed and blended into the wet ingredients
3. Make It Gluten-Free
Simply swap the cake mix with a gluten-free yellow cake mix and double-check that all other ingredients (like baking powder, if added) are certified gluten-free. The cake turns out just as delicious, and even those with dietary restrictions can enjoy a slice.
4. Lighten It Up
Looking for a lighter version?
- Use low-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Replace some oil with unsweetened applesauce
- Use an egg substitute or egg whites
The flavor remains rich, and you’ll cut down on some of the fat and calories without sacrificing much taste or texture.
Making Mini Honey Bun Cakes or Muffins
Want a more portable version of this sweet treat? Try turning the recipe into mini cakes or muffins! They’re perfect for school lunches, parties, or snack trays.
How to Do It:
- Use a muffin tin with paper liners or grease well
- Spoon a tablespoon of batter into each cup, sprinkle cinnamon-sugar, then add another spoonful of batter
- Swirl lightly with a toothpick
- Bake at 325°F for 20-25 minutes
Drizzle each mini cake with glaze after baking and cooling slightly. You now have grab-and-go Honey Bun Muffins that are just as flavorful and indulgent.
Why This Cake is a Southern Staple
Honey Bun Cake isn’t just a dessert—it’s a slice of Southern hospitality. It brings back memories of big family gatherings, potlucks at church, and cozy Sunday mornings. The reason it’s stuck around for decades? It’s comforting, easy, and ridiculously tasty.
Cultural Significance:
In the South, recipes like this one get passed down through generations. It’s a beloved “shortcut recipe” that feels homemade thanks to smart ingredients like sour cream and brown sugar. And because it uses a cake mix base, it’s foolproof—even for beginners.
It’s often associated with comfort food, especially in colder months when something warm and cinnamon-laced just hits the spot.
Pairing Honey Bun Cake with Drinks
What’s a sweet slice without the perfect drink? Pairing your Honey Bun Cake with the right beverage enhances the entire experience.
Perfect Pairings:
- Coffee: A bold brew balances the sweetness. Go for espresso or French press.
- Chai Latte: The spiced tea complements the cinnamon flavor.
- Milk: Classic and creamy. It’s the ultimate kid-friendly combo.
- Iced Tea: Sweet or unsweet, Southern-style iced tea is a natural partner.
- Hot Chocolate: Want a cozy dessert moment? This combo is unbeatable.
Feel free to get creative and try it with flavored coffee creamers or even a spiked after-dinner drink like Baileys or Kahlua.
FAQs about Honey Bun Cake Recipe
What is a honey bun cake?
A honey bun cake is a delightful dessert that mimics the sweet, cinnamon-spiced flavor of a honey bun. It typically involves a soft, yellow cake base swirled with cinnamon and sugar, often topped with a rich glaze that soaks into the cake, creating a moist and flavorful treat.
Do I need any special ingredients to make a honey bun cake?
No special ingredients are required for a honey bun cake. The recipe usually calls for common pantry items such as flour, sugar, eggs, cinnamon, and sour cream. The glaze typically consists of powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract.
Can I make honey bun cake in advance?
Yes, you can make a honey bun cake in advance. It stores well and often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Simply cover the cake tightly and keep it at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate it for up to a week.
Is honey bun cake suitable for large gatherings?
Absolutely! Honey bun cake is easy to make in large batches and is a crowd-pleaser at gatherings and events. Its sweet, comforting flavor makes it a favorite among guests of all ages.
How do I store leftover honey bun cake?
Leftover honey bun cake can be covered and stored at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerated for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and then in foil to preserve freshness for up to three months.
Conclusion
There you have it—a complete, step-by-step guide to making the ultimate Honey Bun Cake. It’s one of those recipes that never fails to impress. Whether you’re serving it for brunch, dessert, or just because you want something sweet, this cake always delivers big on flavor with minimal effort.
From the gooey cinnamon swirl to the sweet vanilla glaze, every layer brings warmth and joy. And with all the variations and tips in this guide, you can easily make it your own.
So next time you’re craving something indulgent, nostalgic, and easy to make—whip up a Honey Bun Cake. Your kitchen will smell amazing, and your taste buds will thank you.
