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Honey Bun Cake

Honey Bun Cake

Honey Bun Cake is a moist, sweet, and tender layered cake featuring a luscious cinnamon-sugar swirl and a sweet honey glaze. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or any occasion, this comforting cake combines pantry staple ingredients for an irresistibly warm and flavorful treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Wet Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cinnamon Swirl

  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • Optional: 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts

Glaze

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 23 tablespoons milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Batter: In a large bowl, mix 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, 1 cup granulated sugar, and 2 teaspoons cinnamon. In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter, whole milk, eggs, honey, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry, stirring until smooth and thick for layering.
  2. Create the Cinnamon Swirl: Combine 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons cinnamon, and optional chopped nuts in a small bowl. Set aside to use as the signature sweet swirl.
  3. Assemble the Cake: Pour half the batter into a greased cake pan. Evenly sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top. Pour the remaining batter over, then finish with the rest of the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl and create a marbled effect.
  4. Bake to Perfection: Bake the cake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool slightly before glazing.
  5. Glaze: Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth to form the glaze. Drizzle generously over the warm cake for a glossy, sweet finish.

Notes

  • Use room temperature eggs and milk for a better batter consistency and tender cake texture.
  • Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake light and soft.
  • Create gentle swirls with a knife or skewer to avoid overworking the batter.
  • Position the cake pan on the oven’s middle rack for even baking.
  • Begin checking for doneness 5 minutes before the timer ends to prevent overbaking.

Nutrition

Keywords: Honey Bun Cake, cinnamon swirl cake, honey cake, sweet breakfast cake, moist cake