Honey Bun Cake
The first time I tasted Honey Bun Cake, I was visiting a friend’s house for brunch. The aroma wafting through her kitchen was simply intoxicating, drawing me in like a warm hug. As I took my first bite, the rich, sweet flavors melted in my mouth, and I was hooked! This cake isn’t just dessert; it’s a celebration of togetherness, perfect for sharing with loved ones.
Every time I make Honey Bun Cake, it takes me back to that cozy brunch. It’s become a staple in my home, often requested for family gatherings or just a cozy weekend treat. The combination of the moist cake and the sugary cinnamon swirl is heavenly, and the glaze on top? It’s the cherry on the cake, adding a delightful creaminess that you simply can’t resist. There’s something special about a recipe that not only tastes incredible but also brings people together.
When you serve Honey Bun Cake, you’re not just serving a dessert; you’re serving memories and conversations. It’s a dish that reminds us of the simple joys in life—like gathering around the table with friends and family, sharing stories, and indulging in sweet treats. I can’t wait for you to try it!
Recipe Snapshot
40 mins
10 mins
30 mins
Medium
320 kcal
3 g
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
12 g
9×13-inch Baking Pan
Why We Love This Honey Bun Cake
It’s Incredibly Easy to Make
One of the standout features of Honey Bun Cake is its simplicity. You won’t need any fancy techniques or complicated equipment. Just a few bowls and an oven are all you need to create this masterpiece. It’s perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros alike!
Comfort in Every Bite
This cake embodies comfort food at its finest. Each slice is packed with flavors that remind me of cozy family gatherings and warm memories. The combination of the cake texture and the sweet cinnamon filling create a nostalgic experience that keeps you coming back for more.
Ideal for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a holiday, birthday party, or just a casual family dinner, Honey Bun Cake fits right in. Its appealing appearance and delightful taste make it a showstopper at any gathering. Plus, it’s a great way to impress your friends with minimal effort.
Customizable to Your Taste
What I love most about Honey Bun Cake is its versatility. You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences. Whether you want to add nuts for crunch or experiment with different glazes, the possibilities are endless. You can truly make it your own!
Perfect for Leftovers
If you somehow have leftovers (though I doubt it!), this cake keeps well. Storing it properly means you can enjoy it for days, making it a great make-ahead option for busy weeks.
Everything You Need for Honey Bun Cake

When it comes to ingredients for Honey Bun Cake, each component plays a crucial role in creating the delightful flavors and textures. The combination of moist cake and sweet cinnamon filling truly makes this dessert a standout. Let’s delve into the ingredients that make this cake irresistible.
- 1 (15.25-ounce) package yellow cake mix – The base of your cake, providing a light and fluffy texture.
- 4 large eggs – These add moisture and richness, binding the ingredients together.
- 3/4 cup vegetable oil – Ensures your cake remains moist and tender.
- 1 cup sour cream – This ingredient gives your cake a lovely tang and helps keep it moist.
- 1 cup brown sugar – Adds sweetness and a rich flavor that complements the cinnamon.
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon – The star spice in this recipe that brings warmth and sweetness.
- 2 cups powdered sugar – Essential for the glaze that gives a sweet finish to the cake.
- 1/4 cup milk – Helps thin down the glaze for a smooth pour.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla – Adds a lovely aroma and depth of flavor to the cake.
How to Assemble Honey Bun Cake

Making Honey Bun Cake is a rewarding process, and I can’t wait to share it with you. Follow these steps closely for the best results. Let’s get started!
- Preheat your oven to 325 degrees and spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. This step is crucial for preventing the cake from sticking, ensuring you have easy slices later.
- In a large bowl, stir together the cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and sour cream until smooth. You’ll want a batter that’s well combined and creamy. The texture should be thick yet pourable.
- Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared pan and smooth it out evenly. Take your time to ensure it’s level; this will help the cake bake uniformly.
- In a separate bowl, stir together the brown sugar and cinnamon. This mixture is what creates the delicious swirl in the cake. Sprinkle it evenly over the cake batter, ensuring every bite will have that sweet flavor.
- Cover the cinnamon mixture with the remaining cake batter, spreading it evenly. This layers the sweetness beautifully.
- Using a knife, run it through the batter in a swirling pattern. This creates a delightful marble effect, ensuring the cinnamon is distributed throughout the cake.
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You know it’s done when the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The smell will be heavenly!
- In a medium bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla to create the glaze. It should be pourable yet thick enough to hold its shape.
- Once the cake is done, pour the glaze over it while it’s still warm. This allows the glaze to seep into the cake, adding an extra layer of sweetness.
- Let the cake cool for 20 minutes before cutting. This resting time lets the flavors meld beautifully and makes slicing easier.
Things Worth Knowing
- Mixing Technique: Be sure not to overmix the cake batter. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Stir until just combined for the best texture.
- Swirling Method: When creating the swirl, don’t worry about perfection. The beauty of Honey Bun Cake is its rustic charm.
- Cooling Time: Allowing the cake to cool properly is essential. It helps set the glaze and enhances flavors.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Ways to Customize

Customization is part of the fun when making Honey Bun Cake. Here are some creative ways to make this recipe your own.
- Adding Nuts: Consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that pairs wonderfully with the soft cake.
- Extra Cinnamon: If you love a stronger cinnamon flavor, increase the amount to suit your taste.
- Fruit Additions: Adding chopped apples or raisins can bring a fruity twist to your cake.
- Glaze Variants: Experiment with different flavors in the glaze, like almond or maple, for a new twist.
- Serving Options: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert experience.
Serve This Honey Bun Cake With
When it comes to serving Honey Bun Cake, the options are endless! Here are some ideas to elevate your dessert experience:
- Fresh Fruit: Pair your cake with seasonal fruits like strawberries or raspberries for a refreshing contrast.
- Coffee or Tea: This cake makes for a delightful afternoon snack, perfectly complemented by a warm cup of coffee or tea.
- Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream can take your cake to the next level.
- Breakfast Treat: Serve it as a breakfast item alongside your favorite brunch dishes; it’s fantastic with pancakes or waffles.
- Special Occasions: Honey Bun Cake is a hit for birthday parties, holidays, or potlucks, ensuring everyone leaves with a smile.
FAQ
Conclusion
This Honey Bun Cake is a delightful treat that brings joy and warmth to any gathering. Its rich flavors and easy preparation make it a beloved recipe in many homes. I encourage you to try making it for your next family gathering or just to satisfy your sweet tooth. You won’t be disappointed, and I can assure you that it will quickly become a favorite in your household!

Honey Bun Cake
Equipment
- 9x13-inch Baking Pan
Ingredients
- 1 package yellow cake mix 15.25-ounce package
- 4 large eggs
- 3/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325 degrees and spray a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. This step is crucial for preventing the cake from sticking, ensuring you have easy slices later.
- In a large bowl, stir together the cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and sour cream until smooth. You’ll want a batter that’s well combined and creamy. The texture should be thick yet pourable.
- Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared pan and smooth it out evenly. Take your time to ensure it’s level; this will help the cake bake uniformly.
- In a separate bowl, stir together the brown sugar and cinnamon. This mixture is what creates the delicious swirl in the cake. Sprinkle it evenly over the cake batter, ensuring every bite will have that sweet flavor.
- Cover the cinnamon mixture with the remaining cake batter, spreading it evenly. This layers the sweetness beautifully.
- Using a knife, run it through the batter in a swirling pattern. This creates a delightful marble effect, ensuring the cinnamon is distributed throughout the cake.
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You know it’s done when the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The smell will be heavenly!
- In a medium bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla to create the glaze. It should be pourable yet thick enough to hold its shape.
- Once the cake is done, pour the glaze over it while it’s still warm. This allows the glaze to seep into the cake, adding an extra layer of sweetness.
- Let the cake cool for 20 minutes before cutting. This resting time lets the flavors meld beautifully and makes slicing easier.
Notes
- For this recipe: You are using the dry cake mix only. Do not use the ingredients on the box of cake mix or follow the directions for the cake mix.
- Storage: Cake will keep for 4 to 5 days in an airtight container at room temperature. Warm in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.
