This Honey Bun Cake is a soft, moist, and cinnamon-swirled cake that tastes just like the beloved honey buns you find at bakeries or convenience stores. With its gooey cinnamon filling, buttery glaze, and tender crumb, this easy-to-make cake is a crowd-pleaser for breakfast, dessert, or anytime snacking. It’s as close as you can get to homemade honey buns without all the fuss!
Prep Time
- 15 minutes
Cook Time
- 40 minutes
Total Time
- 55 minutes
Servings
- 12 servings
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- ¾ cup oil (vegetable or canola oil works well)
- 4 eggs
- 8 oz sour cream
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 Tablespoon ground cinnamon
For the Glaze:
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 4 Tablespoons milk
- 1 Tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) .
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, oil, eggs, and sour cream.
- Stir the mixture by hand for about 50 strokes , or until the batter is smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Layer the Cinnamon Filling
- Pour half of the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
- In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the first layer of batter.
- Spread the remaining batter on top of the cinnamon-sugar layer, gently smoothing it out with a spatula.
Step 4: Swirl the Layers
- Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the layers together, creating a marbled effect. Be careful not to overmix—you want distinct swirls, not a fully blended batter.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes , or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The edges should be golden brown, and the center should spring back when lightly touched.
Step 6: Make the Glaze
- While the cake is baking, prepare the glaze. In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add more milk, 1 teaspoon at a time, if the glaze is too thick.
Step 7: Glaze and Serve
- Once the cake is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Drizzle the glaze evenly over the warm cake, allowing it to soak into the surface.
- Let the cake cool completely before slicing, or serve it warm for an extra gooey treat.
Pro Tips
- Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of almond extract to the glaze for an extra layer of flavor.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days . Reheat slices in the microwave for a warm, fresh-baked taste.
- Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months . Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, based on 12 servings)
- Calories: ~350 kcal
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 35g
Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Honey Bun Cake captures the essence of those addictive store-bought honey buns but in a homemade, shareable form. The cinnamon-sugar swirl adds warmth and sweetness, while the glaze ties everything together with a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth finish. Whether you’re craving a nostalgic treat or looking for a simple yet impressive dessert, this cake delivers every time.
Ready to bake this sweet, swirly delight? Grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a slice of pure comfort—it’s like a bakery-fresh honey bun, straight from your kitchen!
