Introduction
Honey Bun Cake is a deliciously moist, cinnamon-swirled cake that tastes like a classic honey bun pastry—but in cake form. It combines the ease of a boxed yellow cake mix with layers of sweet brown sugar and cinnamon, then finishes with a luscious vanilla glaze. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or a coffee break treat, this cake offers nostalgic warmth and indulgent sweetness in every bite.
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Origin and Cultural Significance
Honey Bun Cake is a true Southern American classic. Inspired by the popular pre-packaged honey bun pastries found in gas stations and lunchboxes across the U.S. since the 1950s, this cake version gained popularity in home kitchens for its simplicity and familiar flavors. It reflects a Southern tradition of turning humble ingredients into cherished baked goods that evoke warmth, comfort, and hospitality.
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Ingredients Quantity
For the Cake:
1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
¾ cup vegetable oil
4 large eggs
1 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Cinnamon-Sugar Swirl:
1 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Vanilla Glaze:
2 cups powdered sugar
4 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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Optional Additions
Chopped pecans or walnuts (½ cup) mixed into the brown sugar layer
A drizzle of honey into the glaze for extra honey flavor
A pinch of nutmeg for warm spice complexity
Swapping sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version
Add a splash of bourbon or maple extract to the glaze for a grown-up twist
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Tips for Success
1. Don’t overmix the batter—mix just until combined to keep it tender.
2. Use room-temperature eggs and sour cream for better texture.
3. Grease the pan well, especially if using a bundt or glass pan.
4. Let the cake cool slightly before glazing—warm enough to absorb, but not hot enough to melt the glaze entirely.
5. Double the cinnamon-sugar swirl for an extra gooey layer!
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Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Make the batter: In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, oil, eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
3. Prepare the swirl: In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon.
4. Layer the cake: Pour half the batter into the prepared pan. Sprinkle the brown sugar-cinnamon mixture evenly over it. Pour the remaining batter on top. Swirl gently with a butter knife.
5. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Make the glaze: While the cake is baking, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
7. Glaze the cake: As soon as the cake comes out of the oven, pour the glaze evenly over the hot cake.
8. Cool and serve: Allow the glaze to set before slicing and serving. Serve warm or at room temperature.
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Description
This cake is incredibly moist, with ribbons of cinnamon sugar running through soft yellow cake. The glaze soaks into the top, creating a slightly crisp, sugary crust with a tender interior. Each bite melts in your mouth and recalls the comforting flavors of a warm honey bun straight from the oven.
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Nutritional Information (Approximate per slice, based on 12 servings):
Calories: 420
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Carbohydrates: 55g
Sugar: 36g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 55mg
Sodium: 320mg
Fiber: 0.5g
(Note: Nutritional values can vary depending on specific brands used.)
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Conclusion and Recommendation
Honey Bun Cake is a celebration of nostalgic flavors and cozy, old-fashioned baking. It’s perfect for holidays, potlucks, or simply a treat-yourself weekend. You’ll fall in love with how easy it is to make—and how quickly it disappears from the table. A crowd-pleaser through and through!
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Embracing Healthful Indulgence
To lighten it up:
Use unsweetened applesauce in place of some oil.
Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream.
Use a reduced-sugar glaze, or serve without glaze entirely for a simpler sweet.
Add whole grain flour for extra fiber (substitute ½ cup for all-purpose).