These soft, sweet Homemade Honey Buns have the same melt-in-your-mouth texture that you love from store-bought honey buns! Sticky and sweet with a cinnamon sugar filling, and creamy homemade glaze, they are perfect for breakfast or dessert. Whether you’re enjoying them at a family gathering or indulging in a weekend treat, these honey buns will surely impress everyone.

Homemade Honey Bun Recipe (Baked or Fried)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Melt-in-your-mouth texture: Enjoy that delightful softness that makes every bite irresistible.
Versatile serving options: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert; they fit any occasion!
Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create these delicious treats.
Flavorful filling: The combination of cinnamon sugar adds a warm and inviting flavor that everyone loves.
Customizable toppings: Feel free to add your favorite glazes or toppings for a personal touch!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your honey buns, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Stand mixer with dough hook
Mixing bowls
Rolling pin
Parchment paper
Sharp serrated knife
Baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

Stand mixer with dough hook: This tool makes kneading the dough easier and more efficient, saving you time and effort.
Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls allows you to easily separate wet and dry ingredients during preparation.
Rolling pin: A rolling pin ensures an even thickness when rolling out the dough for perfect honey buns.

Ingredients

To make your delicious homemade honey buns, you will need the following ingredients:

3 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for rolling)
3 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 tablespoon instant yeast
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup warm water (between 105°F-115°F)
1/3 cup honey
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup shortening (melted)
Vegetable or peanut oil (for frying)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
4 2/3 cup powdered sugar
2 1/2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon melted butter
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
Warm water (as needed)

How to Make Homemade Honey Bun Recipe (Baked or Fried)

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Whisk together the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt in a bowl. Set this mixture aside.
In another bowl, combine the warm water, honey (microwave briefly if needed), egg, and vanilla extract until well mixed.
Melt the shortening and mix it into the wet ingredients until combined.

Step 2: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Using a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients.
Mix on low speed until everything is combined.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Increase the mixer speed to medium and knead for about 8 minutes. The dough should be sticky yet workable.
Shape the dough into a ball and place it in an oiled bowl, turning it to coat all sides with oil.

Step 4: Let the Dough Rise

Cover with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel.
Place in a warm spot for 1 to 2 hours until nearly doubled in size.

Step 5: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Filling

While your dough is rising:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together cinnamon and sugar; set this aside.

Step 6: Roll Out Dough

Once risen:
1. Turn out onto a floured surface; roll into a rectangle measuring about 12 inches long by 8 inches wide.
2. Dust evenly with cinnamon sugar while leaving an edge clean to seal the roll.

Step 7: Shape Honey Buns

Roll up from one long side toward the clean edge tightly.
Brush water on the edge before sealing it against the rolled dough.

Step 8: Cut Into Pieces

Using a serrated knife:
1. Trim off about an inch from each end of your roll.
2. Cut into equal pieces about one inch thick; place on parchment-lined baking sheets with space between them.

Step 9: Second Rise

Let them rise again for approximately 45 minutes until puffy but not doubled in size.

Enjoy your freshly baked or fried homemade honey buns!

How to Serve Homemade Honey Bun Recipe (Baked or Fried)

Homemade honey buns are delightful treats perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack. You can serve them in various ways to enhance their flavor and presentation.

With Coffee

Pair your honey buns with a hot cup of coffee for a comforting breakfast experience. The sweetness of the bun complements the bitterness of coffee beautifully.

Cream Cheese Frosting

Drizzle some cream cheese frosting on top for an extra layer of flavor. This addition makes your honey buns even more decadent and suitable for dessert.

Fresh Fruit

Serve alongside fresh fruit like berries or sliced bananas. The natural acidity of the fruit balances the sweetness of the honey buns, creating a refreshing contrast.

Ice Cream

For an indulgent treat, serve warm honey buns with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The melting ice cream adds creaminess and richness, making it a perfect dessert option.

Whipped Cream

Top your honey buns with whipped cream for a light and fluffy finish. A sprinkle of cinnamon on the whipped cream can elevate the dish even further.

Glazed Pecans

Sprinkle some glazed pecans over your honey buns for added crunch and nutty flavor. This elevates the texture and taste, adding a gourmet touch to your homemade treat.

How to Perfect Homemade Honey Bun Recipe (Baked or Fried)

Achieving the perfect homemade honey bun is all about attention to detail and technique. Follow these tips to ensure success every time.

Use Fresh Yeast: Ensure your yeast is fresh for optimal rise and fluffiness. Expired yeast can lead to dense buns that don’t rise properly.
Monitor Dough Temperature: Keep your dough in a warm place while it rises. A draft-free area helps achieve the best texture by promoting yeast activity.
Don’t Overwork the Dough: Knead just until combined; over-kneading can make your honey buns tough instead of soft and fluffy.
Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to add different fillings like chocolate chips or nuts to suit your tastes and create unique flavors.
Brush with Butter After Baking: Brushing melted butter on top after baking adds richness and helps keep the surface moist.
Adjust Sugar Levels: If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the amount of sugar in both the dough and glaze without sacrificing flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Homemade Honey Bun Recipe (Baked or Fried)

Pairing side dishes with homemade honey buns can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:

Scrambled Eggs: Lightly seasoned scrambled eggs offer protein to balance out the sweetness of honey buns, making it a hearty breakfast.
Bacon Strips: Crispy bacon provides a salty contrast that complements the sweet flavors of honey buns perfectly.
Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a refreshing side that adds texture and nutrition.
Hash Browns: Crispy hash browns add crunch and savory notes that pair well with sweet pastries like honey buns.
Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits brings freshness and acidity, balancing out the rich sweetness of baked goods.
Cottage Cheese: Creamy cottage cheese topped with fruits offers protein while maintaining a light feel alongside sweeter options.
Oatmeal: A bowl of oatmeal flavored with cinnamon creates a warm, comforting side dish that complements the flavors in honey buns.
Smoothie Bowl: A smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds provides vitamins while keeping things light, making it an ideal companion to sweet treats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Homemade Honey Buns can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to steer clear of.

ingredient measurements: Not measuring ingredients accurately can lead to dough that is too sticky or too dry. Always use a kitchen scale or standard measuring cups for precision.
ignoring the rise time: Rushing the dough’s rising process can result in dense buns. Allow the dough the full time it needs to rise in a warm place until it nearly doubles in size.
improperly rolling the dough: Rolling the dough unevenly can cause inconsistencies in baking. Aim for an even thickness and make sure to roll tightly when forming your buns.
skipping the glaze: Without a glaze, your honey buns might lack that sweet finish. Don’t forget to drizzle your homemade glaze over warm buns for added sweetness.
using cold water: Using water that’s too cold can hinder yeast activation. Make sure your water is warm (between 105°F-115°F) for optimal results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover honey buns in an airtight container.
They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Homemade Honey Bun Recipe (Baked or Fried)

Wrap each honey bun individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Homemade Honey Bun Recipe (Baked or Fried)

Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and reheat for about 10 minutes for soft, warm buns.
Microwave: Place one bun on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 15 seconds. Check if it’s warmed through, adding more time as needed.
Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over low heat and place the buns inside, covering with a lid. Warm for about 5 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to serve Homemade Honey Buns?

Homemade Honey Buns are best enjoyed warm, fresh out of the oven or after reheating. They pair wonderfully with coffee or tea.

Can I make these Homemade Honey Buns ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough ahead and refrigerate it overnight before shaping and baking. This allows for great flavor development.

How do I know when my dough is ready to rise?

The dough should have doubled in size and feel slightly soft to the touch when ready. If it springs back slowly when poked, it’s good to go!

Can I substitute ingredients in this Homemade Honey Bun Recipe (Baked or Fried)?

Absolutely! You can use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour or replace honey with maple syrup for a different sweetness.

What if my honey buns don’t rise?

If your honey buns don’t rise, check if your yeast is active by dissolving some in warm water with sugar before using it. If it doesn’t bubble after a few minutes, you may need new yeast.

Final Thoughts

This Homemade Honey Bun Recipe brings joy and warmth right into your kitchen! With its soft texture and sweet flavors, it’s perfect as a breakfast treat or dessert. Plus, you can easily customize them with different fillings or toppings to suit your taste. Try making these delightful honey buns today!

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Homemade Honey Buns

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Author: Nora
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful sweetness of Homemade Honey Buns! These soft, pillowy treats boast a melt-in-your-mouth texture that rivals your favorite store-bought versions. With a sticky cinnamon sugar filling and a creamy homemade glaze, they are perfect for any occasion—be it breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Easy to make with simple ingredients, even novice bakers can master this recipe. Customize your honey buns with various toppings or glazes to suit your taste and impress family and friends with this delectable treat.

Ingredients

Scale

3 cups all-purpose flour
3 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 tablespoon instant yeast
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup warm water (105°F-115°F)
1/3 cup honey
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup shortening (melted)
Cinnamon sugar filling: 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
Glaze: 4 2/3 cups powdered sugar, 2 1/2 tablespoons honey, 1 tablespoon melted butter, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. In another bowl, mix warm water, honey, egg, and vanilla extract. Melt shortening and combine with wet ingredients.
Add wet mixture to dry ingredients using a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook; mix until combined. Knead the dough for about 8 minutes until sticky yet workable.
Shape into a ball and place in an oiled bowl. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 to 2 hours until nearly doubled in size.
While rising, prepare the cinnamon sugar filling by mixing sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.
Roll out the dough into a rectangle, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar filling, roll tightly, and cut into pieces.
Place on parchment-lined baking sheets and let them rise again for about 45 minutes.
Bake or fry according to preference and drizzle with glaze while warm.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Method: Baking/Frying
Cuisine: American