Homemade Honey Bun Recipe (Baked or Fried)
These soft, sweet Homemade Honey Buns Recipe (Baked or Fried) will bring joy to your breakfast or dessert table! With their melt-in-your-mouth texture and sticky sweetness, they rival any store-bought honey bun. Perfect for brunches, family gatherings, or as a delightful snack, these honey buns are filled with a cinnamon sugar mixture and topped with a creamy homemade glaze that makes them truly irresistible.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make – This recipe features simple steps that anyone can follow, even if you’re new to baking.
- Versatile Enjoyment – Serve them as a breakfast treat, an afternoon snack, or a dessert; they fit any occasion!
- Melt-in-Your-Mouth Texture – The combination of ingredients ensures that each bite is soft and fluffy.
- Delicious Cinnamon Flavor – The cinnamon sugar filling adds a warm and comforting taste that’s hard to resist.
- Homemade Goodness – Nothing beats the satisfaction of making your own treats from scratch!
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the baking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer with dough hook
- Mixing bowls
- Rolling pin
- Parchment paper
- Sharp serrated knife
- Baking sheets
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer with dough hook – This tool makes kneading the dough effortless and helps achieve the right consistency.
- Rolling pin – A rolling pin is essential for shaping your dough evenly to create perfect honey buns.
Ingredients
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.
For the Dough
- 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)
For Frying (if chosen)
- Vegetable or peanut oil
For Cinnamon Sugar Filling
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
For Glaze
- 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 Mixture
- Whisk together the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt in a mixing bowl. Set aside.
- In another medium-sized bowl, whisk together warm water, honey (if needed, heat it in the microwave), egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Melt the shortening and mix it into the wet ingredients until smooth.
Step 2: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Attach the dough hook to your stand mixer.
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients while mixing on low speed until combined.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Knead at medium speed for about 8 minutes until it’s somewhat sticky but workable. Shape it into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled glass bowl. Flip to coat with oil.
Step 4: Let It Rise
Cover with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel. Allow it to rise in a warm spot for about 1 to 2 hours or until almost doubled in size.
Step 5: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Filling
While waiting for the dough to rise, whisk together cinnamon and sugar in a small bowl.
Step 6: Roll Out Dough
Once risen, turn out onto a floured surface. Roll into a rectangle about 12” by 8”. Dust evenly with cinnamon sugar mix.
Step 7: Shape Honey Buns
Roll up from one long side toward the clean edge. Brush this edge with water before sealing it by pressing down.
Step 8: Cut Into Pieces
Trim off ends about an inch long each. Cut remaining roll into pieces roughly one inch thick. Place on parchment-lined baking sheets with space between each piece. Allow them to rise again for about 45 minutes until puffy but not doubled in size.
Enjoy your delicious homemade honey buns fresh out of the oven or fryer!
How to Serve Homemade Honey Bun Recipe (Baked or Fried)
Homemade honey buns are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, dessert, or as a snack, these sweet pastries are sure to please everyone.
With a Hot Beverage
- Coffee: Pair your honey buns with a hot cup of coffee for a comforting breakfast.
- Tea: A warm herbal or black tea complements the sweetness beautifully.
- Hot Chocolate: Enjoying honey buns with rich hot chocolate makes for an indulgent treat.
As a Dessert
- Ice Cream: Serve warm honey buns topped with vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert.
- Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra creaminess.
- Fresh Berries: Top with fresh strawberries or raspberries for a fruity twist.
For Breakfast
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad balances the sweetness of the honey buns.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer honey bun pieces in yogurt with granola for a delightful parfait.
- Scrambled Eggs: Serve alongside scrambled eggs for a balanced breakfast option.
How to Perfect Homemade Honey Bun Recipe (Baked or Fried)
To achieve the best results with your homemade honey buns, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Yeast: Always check the expiration date on your instant yeast to ensure it rises well.
- Knead Properly: Ensure you knead the dough enough to develop gluten, which gives the buns their soft texture.
- Watch the Temperature: Maintain the dough at warm temperatures during rising; this helps it rise properly.
- Be Generous with Glaze: Apply plenty of glaze after baking or frying for that classic sticky finish.
- Store Correctly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness and moisture.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add spices like nutmeg or lemon zest to customize your honey buns.
Best Side Dishes for Homemade Honey Bun Recipe (Baked or Fried)
When serving homemade honey buns, pairing them with complementary side dishes enhances the overall meal experience. Here are some great options:
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balance to the sweetness of the buns.
- Crispy Bacon Strips: The salty crunch of bacon contrasts nicely with the soft, sweet honey buns.
- Creamy Scrambled Eggs: Rich scrambled eggs provide protein and round out a satisfying breakfast plate.
- Hash Browns: Crispy hash browns offer texture and savory flavor alongside sweet pastries.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses can create an interesting flavor profile when paired with honey buns.
- Granola Parfait: Layer granola and yogurt for a wholesome side that complements your sweet treat perfectly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making homemade honey buns can be rewarding, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Boldly skip the yeast proofing: Not allowing the yeast to activate properly can lead to dense buns. Always proof your yeast in warm water before mixing.
- Boldly neglect flour measurements: Using too much or too little flour can ruin your dough consistency. Always measure accurately, and remember that humidity can affect flour weight.
- Boldly rush the rising process: Skipping the rise time results in tough buns. Be patient and let the dough rise until it has nearly doubled in size.
- Boldly overlook rolling technique: Rolling the dough unevenly affects the filling distribution. Aim for a uniform rectangle for even baking and flavor.
- Boldly ignore temperature control: Baking at the wrong temperature can cause uneven cooking. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate heat settings.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store homemade honey buns in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Homemade Honey Bun Recipe (Baked or Fried)
- Place cooled honey buns in a freezer-safe container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Homemade Honey Bun Recipe (Baked or Fried)
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes for a fresh taste.
- Microwave: Heat one bun at a time on a microwave-safe plate for about 15-20 seconds.
- Stovetop: Place a bun in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Homemade Honey Bun Recipe (Baked or Fried)?
A homemade honey bun recipe involves making sweet, soft dough filled with cinnamon sugar, which can be baked or fried.
Can I freeze honey buns?
Yes! You can freeze them after they cool down. Just place them in airtight containers for up to three months.
How do I know when my dough has risen enough?
The dough should be puffy and nearly double in size but not necessarily doubled completely. A good test is pressing it lightly; it should spring back slowly.
Can I customize my honey buns?
Absolutely! You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or different spices to tailor your recipe to your taste.
What if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough feels too sticky while kneading, gradually add more flour until it’s manageable but still soft.
Final Thoughts
These Homemade Honey Buns are not just delightful treats; they combine comfort and sweetness that makes them perfect for any occasion. Whether you choose to bake or fry them, their soft texture and sticky glaze will surely win hearts. Feel free to customize with your favorite flavors and enjoy a warm batch today!
Homemade Honey Buns Recipe (Baked or Fried)
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful taste of Homemade Honey Buns, whether baked or fried. These sweet pastries are soft, fluffy, and filled with a warm cinnamon sugar mixture that melts in your mouth. Topped with a creamy homemade glaze, they make an irresistible breakfast treat or dessert. Perfect for brunches or family gatherings, these honey buns are sure to bring joy to your table. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create this comforting classic right in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon instant yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup melted shortening
- For the cinnamon sugar filling: 1/4 cup granulated sugar and 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Set aside.
- Mix warm water, honey, egg, and vanilla extract in another bowl until combined. Stir in melted shortening.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients using a stand mixer with a dough hook on low speed.
- Knead the dough for about 8 minutes until somewhat sticky but workable.
- Shape into a ball and let rise in an oiled bowl covered with plastic wrap for 1 to 2 hours.
- Prepare the cinnamon-sugar filling while dough rises.
- Roll out the risen dough into a rectangle and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar mix.
- Roll up tightly and cut into pieces; let them rise again for about 45 minutes before baking or frying.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking/Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 honey bun (75g)
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
