The Honey Bun Cake is a classic dessert that combines rich, tender cake with a delightful cinnamon-sugar swirl and a sweet glaze on top. It has a warm, comforting flavor that’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or dessert. Often seen at family gatherings or holiday celebrations, this cake has earned a special place in kitchens everywhere. Its origins can be traced back to traditional American comfort foods, but its popularity has spread far beyond that.
With its moist texture, slightly spiced cinnamon, and melt-in-your-mouth glaze, it’s no wonder this cake is a fan favorite. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make!
Ingredients
For the Cake:
-
2 cups all-purpose flour
-
2 cups granulated sugar
-
1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
-
1/2 cup sour cream
-
4 large eggs
-
1 tsp vanilla extract
-
1/4 tsp salt
-
1 tsp baking powder
-
1/2 tsp baking soda
For the Cinnamon-Sugar Swirl:
-
1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
-
1 tbsp ground cinnamon
For the Glaze:
-
1 cup powdered sugar
-
2 tbsp milk
-
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Substitutions:
-
For a dairy-free version, use non-dairy milk (like almond or soy milk) and a dairy-free butter substitute.
-
For a gluten-free version, swap out the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
-
To make the recipe lower in sugar, you can use a sugar substitute such as stevia or monk fruit.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
-
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.
-
Make the Cake Batter:
-
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
-
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
-
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, baking powder, and baking soda.
-
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the sour cream, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
-
-
Prepare the Cinnamon-Sugar Swirl:
-
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and ground cinnamon.
-
-
Assemble the Cake:
-
Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
-
Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the batter.
-
Add the remaining cake batter on top and spread it out gently.
-
-
Swirl the Cinnamon:
-
Using a butter knife, gently swirl the cinnamon-sugar into the batter to create a marbled effect.
-
-
Bake the cake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown.
-
Prepare the Glaze:
-
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
-
-
Glaze the Cake:
-
Allow the cake to cool for about 10 minutes, then drizzle the glaze over the warm cake.
-
-
Serve:
-
Slice and enjoy! You can serve it warm for a gooey experience or let it cool completely.
-
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
-
Don’t overmix the batter; this can make the cake dense instead of light and fluffy.
-
Avoid skipping the cinnamon-sugar swirl step, as this adds the signature flavor to the cake.
Pro Tips and Cooking Techniques
-
Use room-temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature for a smoother batter and better texture.
-
Avoid overmixing: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a tougher cake.
-
Use a bundt pan for an elegant presentation: If you prefer a more classic look, you can bake this cake in a bundt pan. Just ensure it’s well-greased to prevent sticking.
Variations and Customizations
-
Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. You may need to adjust the liquid slightly to get the right consistency.
-
Vegan: Use plant-based butter, dairy-free yogurt or sour cream, and an egg substitute such as flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water per egg).
-
Add-ins: You can incorporate chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, into the batter for extra texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
-
Garnish: A light dusting of powdered sugar can add a finishing touch to the cake.
-
Side Dishes: Serve with a side of fresh fruit or whipped cream for added flavor.
-
Beverage Pairing: This cake pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or a chilled glass of milk.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)
-
Calories: 350
-
Protein: 3g
-
Carbs: 50g
-
Fat: 15g
-
Fiber: 1g
-
Sugars: 35g
Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on ingredients used and portion size.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the cake a day ahead. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover honey bun cake in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature or 5 days in the fridge.
3. Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake for up to 2 months. Be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.
4. How can I make the glaze thicker?
To thicken the glaze, reduce the amount of milk slightly, or add more powdered sugar until you reach the desired consistency.
Closing Thoughts
The Honey Bun Cake is a delicious treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With its cinnamon swirl and sweet glaze, it’s a cake that’s sure to impress. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients or flavors to make this recipe your own!
