Honey Bun Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the warmth of traditional cinnamon rolls with the ease of a cake. This moist, sweet, and slightly gooey cake is swirled with a cinnamon-sugar mixture and topped with a luscious glaze, making it the perfect treat for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Its comforting flavors and inviting aroma create the perfect atmosphere for gatherings and family meals, making it a beloved recipe in many households.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will love this honey bun cake recipe for its incredible flavor and simplicity. The combination of cinnamon and sugar creates a delightful ribbon of sweetness that perfectly complements the fluffy, moist cake. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also requires minimal ingredients, making it accessible for both novice and seasoned bakers. The cake is versatile enough to fit seamlessly into various diets, whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast treat or a comforting dessert to share.
Tips and Tricks
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and butter are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
- Mix Well but Not Too Much: Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense cake. Stir until just combined for a light and fluffy texture.
- Add Extra Flavor: Consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of nutmeg to the batter for added depth.
- Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the batter a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just ensure to bring it back to room temperature before putting it in the oven. The cake can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to three days at room temperature. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing individual slices for up to a month.
Recipe Variations
- Nut Additions: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture.
- Fruit Swirl: Incorporate fresh apples or pears into the cinnamon swirl for a fruity twist.
- Frosting Options: Swap the glaze for cream cheese frosting for a richer flavor.
How to Serve
To serve your honey bun cake, slice it into generous pieces and drizzle with extra glaze for that stunning presentation. Pair it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. Serve warm or at room temperature, and consider garnishing with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a few fresh berries for a pop of color.
Pairing Suggestions
This cake pairs beautifully with a warm cup of coffee or a chilled glass of milk. For a more festive touch, try serving it alongside a spiced chai or a sweet iced tea. Complementary side dishes could include fresh fruit salad or yogurt parfaits for a balanced meal.
How to Store
Store any leftover honey bun cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. The cake can be frozen for up to a month. To reheat, simply place a slice in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Equipment Needed
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Toothpick (for testing doneness)
- Cooling rack
Dietary Adaptations
To make this honey bun cake vegan, substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water equals one egg) and use a plant-based butter alternative. For a dairy-free version, ensure that the milk is replaced with almond, oat, or coconut milk. Nut-free adaptations can be made by avoiding any nut toppings or using sunflower seeds instead.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the fall, consider adding pumpkin puree to the batter for a seasonal touch. In spring or summer, fresh berries like blueberries or strawberries can be mixed into the batter or used as a topping for a fruity flavor.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use a different size pan?: Yes, but be aware that baking times may vary. A smaller pan will result in a thicker cake and may require a longer bake time, while a larger pan will yield a thinner cake.
- What can I substitute for the eggs?: Flax eggs or unsweetened applesauce are great substitutes for eggs in this recipe.
- How can I fix a dry cake?: If your cake turns out dry, ensure to check your oven temperature and baking time next time. You can also incorporate a simple syrup soak for added moisture.
Honey Bun Cake
Honey Bun Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the warmth of traditional cinnamon rolls with the ease of a cake.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup milk
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (for cinnamon swirl)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (for cinnamon swirl)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
- 2 tablespoons milk (for glaze)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, and mix until just combined.
- In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and cinnamon for the swirl.
- Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared pan and sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture on top. Pour the remaining batter over and then sprinkle the rest of the cinnamon sugar on top.
- Use a knife to gently swirl the batter and cinnamon sugar together.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- While the cake is baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Once the cake is done, allow it to cool for 10 minutes before drizzling the glaze over the top.
- Let the cake cool completely before slicing and serving.
Nutrition Information
Yield
12Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 306Total Fat 10gSaturated Fat 5gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 3gCholesterol 69mgSodium 202mgCarbohydrates 51gFiber 1gSugar 34gProtein 5g
TastyFitnessRecipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although tastyfitnessrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Making this honey bun cake is not just about baking; it’s about creating a comforting experience that brings people together. With its simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it warm with a cup of coffee or as a sweet ending to a family meal, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your home. Happy baking!