Homemade Honey Bun Recipe (Baked or Fried)
These soft, sweet Homemade Honey Buns have the same melt-in-your-mouth texture that you love from store-bought honey buns! Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or any occasion, these sticky and sweet treats are filled with cinnamon sugar and topped with a creamy homemade glaze. Whether you choose to bake or fry them, they are sure to delight your taste buds and impress your family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Deliciously Sweet: The combination of honey and cinnamon creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
- Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as a breakfast item or a dessert; they fit any time of day!
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can whip these up with confidence.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or fillings for a unique twist.
- Family Favorite: These honey buns are sure to become a beloved recipe in your household!
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the deliciousness of the Homemade Honey Bun Recipe, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Rolling pin
- Sharp serrated knife
- Parchment paper
- Baking sheet
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer: Makes mixing and kneading the dough effortless, saving you time and energy.
- Rolling pin: Helps you achieve an even thickness when rolling out the dough.
- Sharp serrated knife: Ensures clean cuts for perfectly shaped honey buns.
Ingredients
To make these delightful Homemade Honey Buns, you will need the following ingredients:
Dough 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)
Frying Ingredients
- Vegetable or peanut oil (for frying)
Cinnamon Sugar Filling
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Glaze Ingredients
- 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 mixing bowl. Set aside.
- In another bowl, combine warm water, honey (heat if necessary), egg, and vanilla extract until well mixed. Add melted shortening and mix again.
- Using a stand mixer with a dough hook, combine wet ingredients with dry ingredients on low speed until mixed.
Step 2: Knead the Dough
- Increase mixer speed to medium and knead for about 8 minutes until dough is somewhat sticky but workable.
- Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled glass bowl. Flip to coat.
Step 3: Let It Rise
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a towel and set it in a warm spot. Allow it to rise for 1-2 hours until nearly doubled in size.
Step 4: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Mixture
- While the dough rises, mix cinnamon and sugar in a small bowl.
Step 5: Roll Out the Dough
- Once risen, turn out onto a floured surface. Roll into an 8×12 rectangle.
- Dust with cinnamon sugar mixture while leaving clean edges.
Step 6: Shape the Honey Buns
- Roll from long side towards clean edge; brush edge with water to seal.
- Cut off ends of roll; slice into 1-inch pieces placing them on parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 7: Second Rise
- Let honey bun pieces rise for about 45 minutes until puffy but not doubled.
Now you’re ready to enjoy your freshly made Homemade Honey Buns!
How to Serve Homemade Honey Bun Recipe (Baked or Fried)
Homemade honey buns are deliciously versatile and can be served in various ways. Whether you enjoy them for breakfast, dessert, or a sweet snack, these honey buns will delight your taste buds.
For Breakfast
- Pair with fresh fruit: Serve warm honey buns alongside sliced strawberries or bananas for a refreshing contrast.
- Accompany with yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt adds creaminess and protein to your morning meal.
As a Snack
- Enjoy with coffee: The sweetness of honey buns complements the bold flavors of coffee perfectly.
- Dip in milk: For a nostalgic treat, dunk your honey buns in a glass of cold milk.
For Dessert
- Top with ice cream: Warm honey buns topped with vanilla ice cream create a delightful dessert experience.
- Drizzle with chocolate sauce: Add an extra layer of indulgence by drizzling melted chocolate over your honey buns.
At Gatherings
- Serve at brunch: These homemade treats are sure to impress guests at your next brunch gathering.
- Offer as party favors: Wrap individual honey buns for guests to take home as sweet mementos.
How to Perfect Homemade Honey Bun Recipe (Baked or Fried)
To ensure your homemade honey buns turn out perfectly every time, follow these essential tips. With just a few adjustments, you’ll achieve that melt-in-your-mouth texture we all love.
- Use precise measurements: Accurate measurements of flour and liquid will ensure the right dough consistency.
- Check yeast activity: Always verify that your yeast is fresh and active before starting the recipe to avoid dense buns.
- Knead adequately: Proper kneading develops gluten, giving your honey buns their soft texture. Aim for about 8 minutes.
- Allow for proper rising: Don’t rush the dough rising process; patience here leads to fluffier buns.
- Monitor cooking time: Keep an eye on your honey buns while baking or frying to achieve that perfect golden color without burning.
- Experiment with fillings: Feel free to add nuts or dried fruit for added flavor and texture variations.
Best Side Dishes for Homemade Honey Bun Recipe (Baked or Fried)
Complementing your homemade honey buns with delightful side dishes can enhance the overall meal experience. Here are some excellent options:
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the honey buns.
- Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and create a satisfying meal when served alongside sweet treats.
- Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch of bacon pairs well with soft honey buns, creating an indulgent combination.
- Smoothie Bowl: A nutritious smoothie bowl topped with granola and berries offers a refreshing complement to sweet pastries.
- Cream Cheese Spread: Whipped cream cheese spread adds richness and tanginess that contrasts beautifully with sweet flavors.
- Herbal Tea: A soothing cup of herbal tea offers warmth and complements the sweetness without overpowering it.
- Maple Syrup Dipping Sauce: A small bowl of maple syrup provides an additional sweet touch for those who love extra sweetness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Homemade Honey Buns can be a delightful experience, but there are common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here’s how to avoid them.
- Using cold water: Always ensure your water is warm (between 105°F-115°F) to activate the yeast properly. Cold water won’t allow the dough to rise effectively.
- Skipping the rise time: Patience is key! Allow your dough to rise until it has almost doubled in size for that perfect fluffy texture.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is a science. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to ensure precise amounts of flour and sugar.
- Overworking the dough: Mixing or kneading too much can lead to tough honey buns. Knead just enough until smooth and slightly sticky.
- Neglecting to let buns rest before baking: After cutting the dough into pieces, let them rest for about 45 minutes. This helps achieve a soft, airy texture.
- Skipping glaze: The glaze adds sweetness and moisture! Don’t forget this final touch for irresistible flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover honey buns in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.
Freezing Homemade Honey Bun Recipe (Baked or Fried)
- Freeze honey buns individually wrapped in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating Homemade Honey Bun Recipe (Baked or Fried)
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Wrap honey buns in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat individually on medium power for about 15-20 seconds. Be careful not to overheat!
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat with a lid for about 5 minutes, checking frequently.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make my Homemade Honey Buns softer?
To achieve softer honey buns, ensure you knead just enough and allow them ample time to rise before baking.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, but it may change the texture slightly. Consider mixing whole wheat with all-purpose flour for better results.
What can I use instead of shortening in this recipe?
You can substitute melted butter or coconut oil for a different flavor profile while maintaining moisture.
Can I make Homemade Honey Buns ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dough and let it rise overnight in the fridge. Shape and bake them fresh in the morning!
How do I customize my Homemade Honey Buns?
Feel free to add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits into the filling for added flavor and texture!
Final Thoughts
This Homemade Honey Bun Recipe (Baked or Fried) offers a perfect blend of sweetness and comfort. Its versatility allows you to customize flavors according to your preferences. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or reheated later, these honey buns are sure to satisfy your cravings!
Breakfast
Homemade Honey Buns
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful experience of Homemade Honey Buns, a treat that melds sweetness with a melt-in-your-mouth texture. These soft and sticky buns are perfect for any time of day—whether as a delicious breakfast, a dessert, or a sweet snack. Infused with a rich cinnamon sugar filling and topped with a creamy homemade glaze, they are sure to impress your family and friends. Bake or fry them according to your preference for an extraordinary flavor sensation that will leave everyone craving more.
Ingredients
- 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 melted shortening
- For frying: Vegetable or peanut oil
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. In another bowl, combine warm water, honey, egg, vanilla, and melted shortening.
- Use a stand mixer to combine wet ingredients with dry until mixed; knead for 8 minutes until somewhat sticky.
- Shape the dough into a ball, place in an oiled bowl, cover it, and let rise for 1-2 hours until nearly doubled.
- Roll the risen dough into an 8"x12" rectangle sprinkled with cinnamon sugar; roll tightly from one long edge.
- Cut into 1-inch pieces and place on parchment-lined baking sheets; let rise for about 45 minutes.
- Bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or fry in hot oil until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking/Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 honey bun (50g)
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
