Forget the bakery, this honey bun cake brings the comfort of your favorite morning pastry into an easy-to-make dessert. Using a cake mix as the base, this recipe is a shortcut to deliciousness that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Why This Recipe Works
- Time-Saver: Starting with a cake mix cuts down on prep time without sacrificing taste.
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of cinnamon, brown sugar, and honey creates a mouthwatering swirl that’s hard to resist.
- Perfect Texture: The cake is moist and fluffy, with a slightly crisp topping that adds the perfect contrast.
- Versatile: Enjoy it as a dessert, breakfast, or snack—it’s delicious any time of day.
Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 3/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
Equipment Needed
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
Instructions
Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan. In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, sour cream, and vegetable oil. Mix until well blended. This will be your cake batter base.
Create the Swirl
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon. Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared pan. Sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture evenly over the batter. Drizzle with honey, then top with the remaining batter. Use a knife to swirl the layers together for that signature honey bun look.
Bake to Perfection
Bake for 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown and your kitchen will smell amazing.
Glaze It Good
While the cake is baking, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk to create a smooth glaze. Once the cake is done, drizzle the glaze over the top while it’s still warm. This will allow the glaze to seep into the cake, adding moisture and sweetness.
Serve and Enjoy
Let the cake cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm for the best experience, or at room temperature if you prefer. Either way, it’s delicious.
Tips and Tricks
For an extra crunch, sprinkle chopped pecans over the glaze before it sets. If you’re not a fan of nuts, leave them out or substitute with your favorite topping. To ensure your cake is as moist as possible, don’t overbake it. Keep an eye on it starting at the 35-minute mark. Lastly, for a stronger honey flavor, you can add an extra drizzle of honey on top of the glaze.
Recipe Variations
- Chocolate Twist: Add chocolate chips to the batter or drizzle melted chocolate over the glaze for a chocolatey version.
- Fruit Infusion: Mix in diced apples or pears into the batter for a fruity twist.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the cinnamon sugar mixture for extra warmth.
- Cream Cheese Glaze: Substitute the milk in the glaze with cream cheese for a tangy contrast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cake mix?
Absolutely! While yellow cake mix is recommended for its neutral flavor that pairs well with the cinnamon and honey, you can experiment with white or even spice cake mix for different flavor profiles.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze slices for up to 3 months.
Can I make this cake without eggs?
Yes, you can substitute each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a commercial egg replacer. The texture might be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.
Summary
This honey bun cake recipe with cake mix is a foolproof way to enjoy a decadent dessert with minimal effort. Perfect for any occasion, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
