Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Strawberry Honeybun Cake is a showstopper that brings together a warm, moist cake with a swirl of sweetness. The rich flavor of strawberry adds a fruity twist to the traditional honeybun cake, making it even more irresistible. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, so even beginner bakers can enjoy a homemade dessert. With a soft texture, a hint of cinnamon, and a delightful glaze, this cake is perfect for brunch, family gatherings, or a simple dessert to satisfy your sweet tooth. Plus, the cake stays fresh for days, so you can savor each bite.

Ingredients

1 box of yellow cake mix
1 (3.4 oz) box of strawberry instant pudding mix
4 large eggs
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/4 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup white sugar
1/2 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

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

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, strawberry pudding mix, eggs, sour cream, vegetable oil, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix until the batter is smooth.
In a separate bowl, mix together the cinnamon, brown sugar, and white sugar.
Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the batter. Pour the remaining batter over the top and swirl the cinnamon-sugar mixture into the batter using a knife or skewer.
Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
While the cake is baking, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, mix the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for 10-15 minutes. Drizzle the glaze over the cake while it is still warm.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12-16
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 35-40 minutes
Total time: 50-55 minutes

Variations

Add fruit: For a twist, try adding fresh strawberries to the batter or top the cake with sliced strawberries before serving.
Make it nutty: Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon-sugar swirl for added crunch.
Frosting: If you prefer a thicker frosting, feel free to make a cream cheese frosting instead of the glaze for a richer taste.
Dairy-Free: Swap the sour cream and milk with dairy-free alternatives to make the recipe suitable for those with lactose intolerance.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Keep the Strawberry Honeybun Cake covered at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, refrigerate the cake for up to a week.
Reheating: To reheat, simply microwave a slice for 20-30 seconds or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.

FAQs

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.

Can I use a different flavor of pudding mix?

Yes, you can swap the strawberry pudding mix for other flavors, such as vanilla, chocolate, or banana, for a different twist on the classic.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake a day ahead. Just cover it and store it at room temperature or refrigerate it for longer storage.

Can I freeze the Strawberry Honeybun Cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake for up to 3 months. Be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before freezing.

What can I substitute for sour cream?

You can substitute Greek yogurt, buttermilk, or cream cheese for the sour cream if needed.

Can I add more cinnamon for extra flavor?

Yes, you can increase the amount of cinnamon to suit your taste. Just be careful not to overpower the cake with too much spice.

Can I use a different type of cake mix?

Yes, you can use any type of cake mix, such as butter or white cake, though yellow cake works best for the flavor profile.

Can I make this cake without the glaze?

Yes, you can skip the glaze if you prefer a simpler cake, but the glaze adds a nice sweetness and finish to the dessert.

Is this cake suitable for a crowd?

Yes, the cake yields a large amount and is perfect for gatherings, parties, or family events.

How should I store leftover glaze?

If you have leftover glaze, store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Just reheat it slightly before using again.

Conclusion

The Strawberry Honeybun Cake is a versatile and delicious dessert that everyone will love. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a sweet treat, this cake offers the perfect balance of flavors. With easy preparation and the option for variations, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.