Warm, cozy, and utterly delicious, Honey Bun Cake is the perfect treat to bring joy to any occasion! Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, as a snack, or for dessert, this recipe is remarkably simple to whip up and stays fresh for days. So why not grab a glass of milk and treat yourself to a slice? You deserve it!

This delightful cake captures the flavors of a honey bun in every bite, creating a texture that’s both fluffy and satisfying. Don’t be fooled by its seemingly complex layers; this cake is a breeze to make!

The best part? You don’t have to wait until dinner to dive in. Pair it with a hot cup of coffee in the morning or enjoy it as an afternoon snack. And of course, it also makes a fantastic dessert option!

Perfect for impressing guests over the weekend or indulging a sweet tooth any day of the week, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and again. If you’re looking for more easy dessert ideas, be sure to check out my Crescent Roll Apple Dumplings or S’mores Cookies!

What is a Honey Bun Cake?

Think of a Honey Bun Cake as the delightful lovechild of a cinnamon roll and a fluffy cake. It evokes memories of the store-bought honey buns but takes the flavors up a notch. With a moist and slightly crumbly texture, the cake features cinnamon filling that dances between layers.

A generous sprinkle of cinnamon sugar layered between the cake and topped off with a luscious vanilla glaze brings the classic honey bun flavor you know and love right into your kitchen.

Perfect for a coffee chat, a glass of cold milk, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream, this cake elevates everyday gatherings and special celebrations alike.

Here are some reasons to adore this cake:

• No fancy tools required: Just grab a bowl, a spoon, or spatula, and you’re good to go!
• Simple from-scratch recipe: Despite being from scratch, the steps are quick and straightforward, making it a non-intimidating option.
• Lasts for days: Store it in a container on the counter, and it stays fresh for up to 5 days. It even tastes better as the flavors meld over time!
• Comforting flavors: The warm, cozy vibes of cinnamon and sugar make this cake perfect all year round, but particularly enjoyable during the cooler fall months.

Ingredients You Need

Most of these ingredients are pantry staples or easily found at your local market, making this cake both accessible and irresistible!

NOTE: Refer to the recipe card below for detailed measurements.

• Melted butter: While butter adds amazing flavor, feel free to use vegetable or canola oil as a substitute if needed.
• Flour: All-purpose flour works great, but if you prefer, cake flour will yield a more delicate texture.
• Sugars: You’ll need granulated sugar, brown sugar, and powdered sugar for the perfect balance of sweetness.
• Milk: Essential for achieving that ideal cake-like consistency.
• Sour cream: How to keep the cake moist and tender.
• Eggs: These help the cake rise beautifully.
• Baking powder: For leavening.
• Ground cinnamon: The star of our flavor profile!
• Vanilla extract: A splash for added depth of flavor.
• Salt: Just a pinch balances the sweet notes.

Recipe Tips and Variations

• Use room temperature ingredients: This tip is crucial for creating a smooth and spreadable batter.
• Avoid overbaking: The cake should be soft and buttery, so keep an eye out! As soon as it turns golden brown on top, check for doneness with a toothpick.
• Don’t overdo the icing: While it’s tempting to add more, the sweetness can get overwhelming. Stick with the perfect amount for subtle sweetness.
• Serve it warm: The cake is delicious warm. You can even microwave slices to enjoy that gooey goodness again!
• Add a swirl effect: For an artistic touch, you can swirl the cinnamon sugar mixture directly into the cake batter before baking for a stunning visual.
• Add nuts: If you’re a nut lover, sprinkle finely chopped walnuts or pecans into the cinnamon sugar for added texture and flavor.

How to Make a Honey Bun Cake

1. Get your oven ready: Preheat your oven to 325°F and spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with baking spray.
2. Create the cinnamon sugar filling: In a small bowl, combine brown sugar and cinnamon, mixing well.
3. Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
4. Add the wet ingredients: Include eggs, melted butter, sour cream, and milk in the dry mixture. Mix until large clumps vanish; the batter should be thick but spreadable.
5. Assemble the cake: Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan and smooth it out. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the top, then cover with the remaining batter.
6. Bake the cake: Slide the cake into your preheated oven and bake for about 40 to 45 minutes until golden. A toothpick inserted into the center should come clean. Allow cooling for about 10 minutes after baking.
7. Prepare the icing: Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over the warm cake, spreading gently, and let cool before cutting into squares.

Storage Instructions

This Honey Bun Cake keeps incredibly well! Store it in an airtight container or a zip-top bag at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator and reheat if desired.