Name: Honey Bun Cake
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 2 h 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (15-ounce) yellow cake mix; 1 cup sour cream; 3 eggs; 2/3 cup vegetable oil; 1 cup brown sugar; 3 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1/3 cup milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Why You’ll Love Honey Bun Cake Recipe

This Honey Bun Cake is incredibly easy to make and tastes like it came straight from a bakery. The cinnamon-sugar swirl creates a rich, sweet filling throughout the cake, while the glaze soaks into the warm cake for extra moisture and flavor. It’s perfect for brunches, potlucks, holidays, or whenever you’re craving a comforting homemade dessert.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 (15-ounce) yellow cake mix

1 cup sour cream

3 eggs

2/3 cup vegetable oil

1 cup brown sugar

3 teaspoons ground cinnamon

1 cup powdered sugar

1/3 cup milk

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/4 teaspoon salt

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the yellow cake mix, sour cream, eggs, and vegetable oil until smooth and well combined.

Pour half of the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.

In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the batter.

Carefully pour the remaining batter over the cinnamon-sugar layer and gently spread it into an even layer.

Bake for 35 to 38 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

While the cake is baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.

Once the cake comes out of the oven, use a fork to lightly prick the surface all over.

Pour the glaze evenly over the hot cake, allowing it to soak into the surface.

Let the cake cool completely before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 20 servings

Prep time: 5 minutes

Bake time: 35 minutes

Cooling time: 2 hours

Total time: 2 hours 40 minutes

Variations

Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon-sugar filling for extra texture.
Substitute pumpkin pie spice for part of the cinnamon for a seasonal twist.
Use cream cheese glaze instead of vanilla glaze for a richer topping.
Add a small amount of honey to the glaze for extra sweetness.
Swap the yellow cake mix for butter cake mix for a richer flavor.
Stir a pinch of nutmeg into the cinnamon filling for added warmth.
Drizzle caramel sauce over the cooled cake before serving.

Storage/Reheating

Store Honey Bun Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to 5 days. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

You can also freeze individual slices or the entire cake for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds for a fresh-from-the-oven taste.

FAQs

Why is it called Honey Bun Cake if it doesn’t contain honey?

The cake is inspired by the flavor of classic honey bun pastries, which feature cinnamon swirls and sweet glaze rather than actual honey.

Can I use a different cake mix flavor?

Yes. Butter cake mix or white cake mix can work well as substitutes.

Do I need to use sour cream?

Sour cream helps keep the cake moist, but plain Greek yogurt can be used instead.

Can I make Honey Bun Cake ahead of time?

Yes. It stays moist for several days and is great for making in advance.

Should I glaze the cake while it’s hot?

Yes. Pouring the glaze over the hot cake helps it soak into the surface for extra flavor and moisture.

Can I freeze Honey Bun Cake?

Yes. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.

What size pan should I use?

A standard 9×13-inch baking pan works best for this recipe.

How do I know when the cake is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the cake is ready.

Can I add nuts to the cake?

Yes. Chopped pecans or walnuts pair wonderfully with the cinnamon filling.

Is Honey Bun Cake served warm or cold?

It can be enjoyed either way, but many people prefer it slightly warm or at room temperature.

Conclusion

Honey Bun Cake is an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert that transforms simple pantry ingredients into a rich and comforting treat. With its moist cake layers, cinnamon-sugar swirl, and sweet vanilla glaze, it captures all the flavors of a classic honey bun in every slice. Whether served for breakfast, dessert, or a special gathering, this cake is sure to become a favorite.