Honey Bun Cake – The Ultimate Guide to a Sweet, Cinnamon-Swirled Delight

Honey Bun Cake is the ultimate dessert for anyone who loves the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon, brown sugar, and sweet glaze. Inspired by the classic honey bun pastry, this cake transforms those nostalgic flavors into a moist, cinnamon-swirled treat that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. With its soft crumb and gooey glaze, every bite delivers bakery-style indulgence straight from your kitchen.
The best part? Honey bun cake is incredibly easy to make. Starting with a simple boxed cake mix, you add a rich cinnamon-brown sugar filling and finish it off with a drizzle of powdered sugar glaze that seeps into every layer. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, you’ll love how effortlessly this cake comes together. In this guide, we’ll walk through everything from its origins and key ingredients to baking tips, variations, and storage methods. And if you want to ensure perfect texture every time,

What is Honey Bun Cake?

A Brief History of Honey Bun Cake

Honey Bun Cake has its origins in the beloved honey bun pastry, which rose to fame in the 1950s. Originally a packaged sweet roll filled with cinnamon sugar and drizzled with glaze, the treat became a Southern staple for breakfasts and quick snacks. As home bakers began replicating that flavor in cake form, the Honey Bun Cake was born—using simple boxed cake mix and pantry staples to recreate that same soft, spiced profile.

This cake gained traction thanks to its ease of preparation and irresistible taste. By combining the tender crumb of a yellow cake with the swirled flavors of cinnamon and brown sugar, and finishing it with a sweet glaze, honey bun cake became a weeknight dessert hero. Today, it stands as one of the most popular sheet cakes in American households.

Honey Bun Cake

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Mary
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 12 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

A moist cinnamon-swirled cake inspired by the classic honey bun pastry, topped with a sweet vanilla glaze. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 box yellow cake mix
• 1 cup sour cream
• 4 eggs
• 3/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 2–3 tablespoons milk or cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or butter and flour.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, sour cream, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Gradually stir in the yellow cake mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon together.
5. Pour half the batter into prepared pan and spread evenly.
6. Sprinkle cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the batter.
7. Pour remaining batter on top and gently spread to cover.
8. Optional: Use a butter knife to gently swirl the layers.
9. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
10. Let cake cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes.
11. While cake is still warm, whisk together powdered sugar, milk or cream, vanilla extract, and salt (if using) to form a glaze.
12. Pour glaze evenly over warm cake and let it soak in.
13. Allow cake to cool fully before slicing and serving.

Notes

For a richer glaze, substitute milk with heavy cream. Add chopped pecans or a swirl of cream cheese to the cinnamon layer for variation.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 34g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 56g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 55mg

Why It’s Loved Across Generations

One bite into a slice of honey bun cake, and you’re instantly greeted with a warm blend of flavors that feel familiar and indulgent. Its magic lies in the cinnamon-sugar layer that runs through the cake like a ribbon—sweet but not overwhelming. It’s soft, rich, and slightly sticky from the glaze, making it perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.

Another reason it has remained a classic? It’s adaptable. Whether you make it from scratch or start with a yellow cake mix, it comes together with ease and never fails to please. Plus, it holds well at room temperature, making it ideal for family gatherings, bake sales, or as a quick grab-and-go treat.

Check out our Banana Bundt Cake if you love moist cakes packed with flavor and want to explore more comforting desserts.

Ingredients You’ll Need for the Best Honey Bun Cake

Key Pantry Staples

One of the reasons Honey Bun Cake is a go-to favorite is because the ingredient list is simple and budget-friendly. Whether you’re baking from scratch or using a shortcut with a boxed mix, these ingredients are likely already in your kitchen:

The magic begins with the combination of brown sugar and cinnamon layered between the batter. As the cake bakes, these ingredients melt into sweet pockets of spice that give honey bun cake its name.

Don’t miss our Buttermilk Coffee Cake if you’re into similar bakes with rich swirls and cozy flavors.

Optional Add-ins and Substitutes for Dietary Preferences

Want to personalize your honey bun cake or make it suitable for certain diets? Here are a few smart swaps and additions:

• For a dairy-free version: Use plant-based sour cream or Greek-style coconut yogurt, and replace the milk in the glaze with almond or oat milk.
• For a healthier twist: Substitute half the oil with unsweetened applesauce to reduce fat without sacrificing moisture.
• For extra flavor: Add a teaspoon of nutmeg to the cinnamon-sugar mix, or a tablespoon of maple syrup in the glaze for a warm, autumnal touch.
• Add-ins: Chopped pecans or walnuts can be mixed into the cinnamon layer for added crunch, while a swirl of cream cheese adds richness.

Discover great ideas like our Cream Cheese Coffee Cake for a more decadent approach to breakfast cake.

How to Make the Perfect Honey Bun Cake Step-by-Step

Preparing the Cake Batter Like a Pro

The secret to a perfect honey bun cake lies in creating a moist, rich batter without overmixing. Whether you’re using a boxed yellow cake mix or making your base from scratch, follow these steps for best results:

1. Start with Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs and sour cream are at room temperature. This helps everything blend smoothly and results in a uniform batter.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients First: In a large bowl, beat the eggs, oil, sour cream, and vanilla until smooth. This step aerates the batter and adds richness.
3. Gradually Add Cake Mix: Slowly stir in the cake mix until fully incorporated. Avoid overmixing—just combine until no dry spots remain. Excessively mixing the batter can result in a heavy, dense texture.
4. Grease Your Pan Generously: Use nonstick spray or butter and a dusting of flour to prevent sticking. A 9×13-inch baking dish works perfectly for this recipe.
5. Pour Half the Batter: Spread a layer of batter into the pan before adding the cinnamon-sugar mixture (we’ll cover that next!).

Here’s a tip: If you prefer a fluffier cake, you can add a packet of instant vanilla pudding to the batter.It improves the cake’s structure and adds extra moisture, making it even more tender.

Check out our Chocolate Strawberry Cake for another step-by-step guide with layering tips.

Creating the Signature Cinnamon Swirl Layer

Now, we come to the feature that gives the honey bun cake its name—the irresistible cinnamon swirl.

1. Mix the Filling: In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of packed brown sugar and 1–2 tablespoons of cinnamon. Optional: For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle in a pinch of nutmeg or some crushed walnuts.
2. Layer It: Sprinkle this mix evenly over the first half of your batter.
3. Top With Remaining Batter: Carefully spoon or pour the rest of the batter over the cinnamon layer. Use a spatula to smooth it out.
4. Swirl (Optional): Using a butter knife, gently swirl the batter and cinnamon layer for a marbled effect. Be cautious not to overmix—you want distinct layers, not a completely blended batter.
5. Ready to Bake: Preheat the oven to 325°F and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Once baked, let the cake sit in the pan for 10–15 minutes before adding your glaze so it soaks in while warm.

Baking and Cooling Tips for Honey Bun Cake

Correct Baking Temperature and Time

Getting the temperature and bake time right is critical for achieving a moist, perfectly set honey bun cake. Here’s how to avoid a dry or undercooked center:

• Temperature: Bake your honey bun cake at 325°F (165°C) for a more even bake. This lower temperature ensures the center cooks through without burning the edges.
• Time: Bake for 40 to 45 minutes. Start checking at the 38-minute mark by inserting a toothpick in the center. If the toothpick comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready.
• Rack Position: Always bake on the middle rack to ensure even air circulation around the pan.

Try to avoid opening the oven door too often during baking, as this can cause the cake to sink in the center due to temperature fluctuations.

Don’t miss our Chocolate Raspberry Cake if you want more precision baking tips paired with rich, fruity flavors.

How to Cool It Without Losing Moisture

A warm honey bun cake absorbs glaze beautifully, but there’s a method to cooling it the right way:

1. Initial Rest: Once baked, let the cake rest in the pan for 10–15 minutes. This helps it firm up slightly before glazing.
2. Apply the Glaze Warm: While still warm, pour your prepared glaze over the top. The residual heat helps the glaze soak in and adds that signature sticky texture.
3. Let It Set: After glazing, allow the cake to cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This prevents crumbling and ensures each bite has that perfect cinnamon-sugar swirl.
4. Use a Wire Rack (Optional): If you’re planning to remove the cake from the pan before serving, use parchment paper for lining and a wire rack for cooling.

Storing it in the fridge too soon can dry it out. Let it cool completely before covering with plastic wrap or placing it in an airtight container.

Best Glazing Options for Honey Bun Cake

Classic Vanilla Glaze

The vanilla glaze is the traditional finishing touch that gives honey bun cake its irresistible sticky-sweet top. It’s simple, delicious, and soaks beautifully into the warm cake, adding moisture and sweetness in every bite.

Basic Vanilla Glaze Recipe:

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth.
2. Add more milk (a teaspoon at a time) if the glaze is too thick, or more sugar if too thin.
3. Pour glaze over the cake while it’s still warm, allowing it to soak in and form a light sugary crust.

Pro Tip: Use heavy cream instead of milk for a richer finish.

Learn more about dessert pairings like our Tres Leches Cake to explore more moist and milky cake toppings.

Fun Twists: Cream Cheese, Maple, or Bourbon

Want to elevate your honey bun cake with something unique? These creative glaze options add an extra layer of indulgence and flavor.

1. Cream Cheese Glaze: Combine 4 oz of softened cream cheese, 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons milk, and ½ teaspoon vanilla. This is thicker and tangy—perfect for special occasions.
2. Maple Glaze: Mix powdered sugar with pure maple syrup and a splash of milk for a cozy fall twist.
3. Bourbon Glaze: Add 1 tablespoon of bourbon to your vanilla glaze for a subtle kick that pairs beautifully with cinnamon.
4. Spiced Glaze: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to your base glaze to echo the flavors inside the cake.

These glaze variations are especially popular for brunch tables or holiday spreads where you want to wow your guests.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Best Time to Serve Honey Bun Cake

Honey Bun Cake is one of those versatile desserts that fits into just about any meal or occasion. Thanks to its cinnamon-spiced center and soft, glazed top, it’s equally at home on a breakfast table or dessert platter.

Here are the best moments to enjoy it:

• Weekend Brunch: Serve warm slices alongside eggs, fruit, or breakfast casseroles.
• Afternoon Snack: A mid-day slice pairs perfectly with a cup of tea or coffee.
• Potlucks and Parties: It’s easy to transport, slice, and serve in a crowd.
• Holiday Tables: This cake is a favorite during Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter spreads.

Pro tip: Serve the cake slightly warm. A 10-second microwave blast softens the glaze and releases the cinnamon aroma.

Discover great ideas like our Donut Cake for other fun, crowd-pleasing cakes that feel familiar and exciting.

Beverages and Sides That Complement It

Pairing honey bun cake with the right beverage or side can enhance the flavor experience. Here are some classic and creative ideas:

If serving for brunch, consider adding a savory element like scrambled eggs, breakfast sausage, or quiche to balance the cake’s sugar content.

Storage and Shelf Life of Honey Bun Cake

How Long Does Honey Bun Cake Last?

Properly stored, honey bun cake can remain fresh and moist for several days. The glaze serves as a natural preservative, helping to seal in both flavor and moisture.

Here’s a breakdown of how long it typically lasts:

At Room Temperature: Place the cake in an airtight container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap. Store it away from direct sunlight and heat sources to maintain its freshness.

In the Fridge: Refrigeration extends shelf life but may dry it slightly. Let slices sit at room temp for 10 minutes or microwave for 8–10 seconds before serving to soften the glaze.

In the Freezer: Slice the cake first, then wrap each piece in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge or microwave gently when ready to eat.

Don’t miss our Banana Donuts for more freezable breakfast treat ideas that stay moist even after thawing.

Freezing and Reheating Tips

Freezing honey bun cake is ideal for meal prep, holiday planning, or saving leftovers. Here’s how to do it right:

1. Cool Completely: Never freeze a warm cake—it creates condensation and ruins texture.
2. Wrap in Layers: First wrap in plastic, then foil, or place in a freezer-safe container.
3. Label & Date: Write the freezing date to keep track of freshness.
4. Reheat Properly:
   • From Fridge: Microwave slices for 10 seconds.
   • From Freezer: Let thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm gently.

Avoid reheating too long—this can dry out the cake or cause the glaze to break.

Honey Bun Cake Variations You Should Try

Honey Bun Cupcakes and Muffins

If you love the classic honey bun cake but want something more portable or portion-controlled, turning the recipe into cupcakes or muffins is a game-changer. These bite-sized versions are ideal for bake sales, lunchboxes, or grab-and-go breakfasts.

How to Adapt the Recipe:

• Use a standard muffin tin and fill liners halfway with cake batter.
• Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mix in the center, then add more batter on top.
• Bake at 325°F for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
• Glaze while warm for that signature sticky topping.

You get the same gooey, swirled goodness in a neat, individual format. Plus, they freeze beautifully for future cravings.

Looking for inspiration? Try our Mini Chocolate Cakes—they’re another rich, mini dessert that’s easy to love.

Gluten-Free or Vegan Honey Bun Cake Options

Dietary restrictions don’t have to stop you from enjoying this Southern classic. With a few ingredient swaps, you can create versions that are gluten-free, dairy-free, or even vegan without compromising on taste.

For a Gluten-Free Honey Bun Cake:

• Use a gluten-free yellow cake mix (Bob’s Red Mill or King Arthur brands are great).
• Make sure your baking powder and other ingredients are certified gluten-free to maintain the recipe’s integrity.
• Swap flour in homemade versions with a 1:1 gluten-free blend.

For a Vegan Honey Bun Cake:

• Replace eggs with flaxseed eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water = 1 egg).
• Use vegan sour cream or yogurt instead of dairy.
• Replace the milk and glaze with plant-based alternatives such as almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version.

Bonus Tip: Incorporate chopped pecans or vegan chocolate chips to add extra texture and a fun twist.

Check out our Vegan Chocolate Cake to explore more rich and plant-based dessert options that don’t sacrifice indulgence.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Honey Bun Cake

Overmixing the Batter

One of the most common errors when baking honey bun cake is overmixing the batter, especially when using a boxed cake mix. Overmixing activates the gluten in the flour, which leads to a dense, rubbery texture rather than the light and tender crumb this cake is known for.

Solution: Mix just until combined. Once the dry ingredients are moistened, stop mixing. A few small lumps are perfectly fine and will smooth out as the cake bakes.

Pro Tip: Use a spatula to scrape down the sides of the bowl and fold the batter gently if needed.

Undercooking or Burning the Edges

Because honey bun cake is dense and has a sugary swirl, it can be tricky to bake evenly. The cinnamon-sugar layer can sink or caramelize too much if baked incorrectly, leading to burnt edges or a raw center.

Solution:

• Always bake at 325°F, not higher.
• Use a light-colored metal pan to avoid excessive browning.
• Rotate the pan halfway through the baking time for even cooking.
• Use the toothpick test: A clean pick means it’s ready.

If your oven has hot spots, consider using an oven thermometer and placing the pan on a baking sheet to diffuse heat.

Don’t miss our Blueberry Dump Cake for another forgiving, foolproof cake that’s packed with flavor and moisture.

FAQs

Conclusion

A honey bun cake is more than just a dessert — it’s a nostalgic, comforting treat that can be enjoyed at breakfast, as a snack, or after dinner. With its moist crumb, swirls of cinnamon-sugar, and sweet glaze, it’s the kind of recipe that brings people together and sparks warm memories. Whether you stick to the classic version, try seasonal variations, or make a healthier twist, the result is always delicious.

From baking tips to storage hacks and creative serving ideas, this guide gives you everything you need to master the perfect honey bun cake. Now all that’s left is to preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and bake up a treat that’s sure to impress family and friends.

Fore more recipes follow me in Facebook, medium and Pinterest

Related posts:

peach muffins recipe the best dessrt Peach Bread – A Warm, Fragrant Classic You’ll Love Baking High Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels Recipe (Easy & Healthy Guide) Cottage Cheese Gluten Free Bagel: The Best Healthy