Name: Homemade Honey Buns: Soft, Sweet Delights for Any Occasion
Prep time: 90 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 130 min
Ingredients: 4 cups All-purpose flour (Can substitute with bread flour for a chewier texture); 1/4 cup Granulated sugar (Adds sweetness to the dough); 1 teaspoon Salt (Enhances flavor in the dough); 1 cup Whole milk (Try non-dairy milk for a plant-based option); 2 teaspoons Instant yeast (Ensure it's fresh for best results); 1/2 cup Unsalted butter (melted) (Adds richness to the dough); 1 large Egg (Binds the dough and enriches texture); 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract (Infuses delightful flavor into the dough); 2 tablespoons Ground cinnamon (Provides warm spice flavor in the filling); 4 cups Vegetable oil (for frying) (Maintain oil at 350°F for best frying results); 2 cups Powdered sugar (Sweetens and thickens the glaze); 1/4 cup Honey (Provides a sweet floral note); 2 tablespoons Additional milk (Adjusts glaze consistency)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

As I stood in my kitchen, the sweet scent of melted butter and cinnamon wafted through the air, transforming my home into a cozy bakery. Homemade Honey Buns with Sweet Honey Glaze are not just a treat for the taste buds; they’re a journey to comfort and warmth. With simple pantry staples and a few easy steps, you can create these delightful, fluffy buns that are perfect for breakfast or that afternoon snack craving. Plus, they’re vegetarian-friendly and easily adapted for plant-based diets with just a few swaps. Who wouldn’t want to enjoy a warm, gooey honey bun, swirled with cinnamon and finished with a glossy glaze? Ready to roll up your sleeves and treat yourself? Let’s dive in!

Why Are Homemade Honey Buns Irresistible?

Soft, Fluffy Texture: Each bite of these honey buns is like a warm hug, thanks to their pillowy softness that melts in your mouth.

Sweet, Glossy Glaze: The delightful honey glaze offers a rich sweet finish that perfectly complements the subtle cinnamon swirl, elevating your snack experience.

Easy to Customize: Whether you prefer traditional honey or a vegan twist with maple syrup, this recipe is flexible for dietary needs. Just swap your ingredients seamlessly!

Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether for brunch with friends, a cozy winter morning, or an afternoon pick-me-up, these buns are a crowd-pleaser that never disappoints.

Aromatic Baking Experience: As they bake, your kitchen will fill with enticing scents reminiscent of your favorite bakery, making the homey vibes utterly irresistible.

If you’re looking for even more honey goodness, try my Honey Glazed Salmon for dinner or a Baked Hot Honey dish to spice things up!

Homemade Honey Buns Ingredients

For the Dough

• All-purpose flour – Provides structure; substitute with bread flour for a chewier texture.
• Granulated sugar – Adds sweetness to the dough.
• Salt – Enhances flavor in the dough.
• Whole milk – Hydrates the dough; try non-dairy milk like oat or almond for a plant-based option, but expect a flavor change.
• Instant yeast – Causes the dough to rise; ensure it’s fresh for best results.
• Unsalted butter (melted) – Adds richness to the dough.
• Large egg – Binds the dough and enriches texture.
• Vanilla extract – Infuses delightful flavor into the dough.

For the Filling & Frying

• Ground cinnamon – Provides warm spice flavor in the filling.
• Vegetable oil (for frying) – Creates a crispy exterior; maintain oil at 350°F (175°C) for best frying results.

For the Glaze

• Powdered sugar – Sweetens and thickens the glaze.
• Honey – Provides a sweet floral note; swap with maple syrup for a unique twist.
• Additional milk – Adjusts glaze consistency and flavor.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Homemade Honey Buns

Step 1: Dough Preparation
In a stand mixer, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Heat the whole milk to 110°F (43°C) and mix it with the instant yeast, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients while mixing on low speed for about 10 minutes, until a soft dough forms that pulls away from the bowl’s sides.

Step 2: First Rise
Shape the dough into a ball and place it into a greased bowl, turning it to coat with oil. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free spot until doubled in size, about 1½ hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the dough feels soft and puffy to the touch.

Step 3: Shaping Buns
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to remove excess air. Roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle about ½ inch thick. Sprinkle the ground cinnamon evenly over the surface and roll the dough tightly into a log. Cut the log into 1-inch pieces to create approximately 14 buns, ensuring each piece is the same size for even cooking.

Step 4: Second Rise
Arrange the cut dough pieces on a sheet of wax or parchment paper, leaving space between each bun. Cover them lightly with the kitchen towel again and let them rise for another 30 minutes, or until they are noticeably puffy. This second rise allows the homemade honey buns to become light and airy.

Step 5: Frying
Heat the vegetable oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add a few dough pieces to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the buns for 1–2 minutes on each side, or until they achieve a beautiful golden brown color. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 6: Glazing
While the buns cool slightly, prepare the glaze by whisking together melted butter, powdered sugar, additional milk, honey, and a splash of vanilla extract until smooth. Dip the warm honey buns into the glaze, allowing it to coat generously, or drizzle the glaze on top for a lovely finish.

Make Ahead Options

These Homemade Honey Buns are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the dough preparation steps, then shape the buns and place them on your parchment paper. Cover them tightly and refrigerate overnight. When you’re ready to fry, let the buns sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes while the oil heats up; this keeps them fluffy and light. Make sure to keep any leftover buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days after frying, ensuring they stay just as delicious. Enjoy warm honey buns with minimal effort on those hectic mornings!

Expert Tips for Homemade Honey Buns

• Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh instant yeast for maximum rise. Old yeast can lead to dense buns, so check the expiration date!

• Temperature Matters: Heat the milk to the precise 110°F before adding it to the dough. Too hot can kill the yeast, and too cold won’t activate it.

• Don’t Rush the Rises: Allow the dough to fully double during both rises. Patience leads to extra fluffy homemade honey buns!

• Oil Safety: Keep the frying oil at a steady 350°F to avoid soggy buns. A thermometer is your best friend here!

• Glaze Timing: Wait for the buns to cool slightly before glazing; this helps the glaze adhere better and not run off.

Homemade Honey Buns: Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore these delightful variations and substitutions to tailor your homemade honey buns to your taste preferences!

Dairy-Free: Substitute whole milk with almond or oat milk for a plant-based option that still provides creaminess.
Maple Twist: Swap honey in the glaze for maple syrup to introduce a rich, earthy flavor that complements the sweetness.
Chewy Texture: Use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour to create a chewier bun that’s still soft and delicious.
Flavor Zests: Jazz up the glaze by adding orange or lemon zest, bringing a refreshing citrus twist to each bite.
Nutty Topping: Sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts over the glaze for a lovely crunch that pairs perfectly with the softness of the buns.
Spice Variations: Experiment with spices by incorporating nutmeg or cardamom into the dough for an exciting flavor profile.
Extra Sweetness: For an indulgent twist, drizzle additional glaze over the buns after they cool, ensuring a sweet, sticky finish.
Warm Heat: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the glaze for a delightful kick, pairing beautifully with the sweetness of honey.

If you’re keen to incorporate more honey-inspired dishes, consider trying my Honey Mustard Salmon for dinner, or whip up some Sweet Potatoes Honey as a comforting side!

What to Serve with Homemade Honey Buns?

Looking to complement your freshly made honey buns with delightful additions that tantalize your taste buds and complete your meal?

Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of berries and melons adds a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the honey buns.
Creamy Greek Yogurt: Serve a dollop of tangy Greek yogurt on the side for a creamy balance. It’s like a cool hug for those warm buns!
Rich Coffee: A robust cup of coffee pairs perfectly, adding a comforting depth that heightens the indulgent experience of your honey buns.
Scrambled Eggs: Lightly seasoned scrambled eggs provide protein, making this a heartier breakfast or brunch option. The fluffiness mirrors the honey buns beautifully!
Cinnamon Coffee Cake: For a sweet duet, serve with cinnamon coffee cake; their flavors intertwine, creating a warm, cozy atmosphere.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: Drizzling a little extra maple syrup over your buns elevates the sweetness and ties together the flavors perfectly.
Caramel Flan: Decadent and creamy, a slice of flan offers a delightful, silky texture that complements the soft honey buns beautifully.
Hot Chocolate: For a cozy dessert pairing, rich hot chocolate makes for a delightful beverage that wraps you in warmth and sweetness.

Storage Tips for Homemade Honey Buns

Room Temperature: Store cooled buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep them soft and fresh.

Fridge: If keeping longer, place them in the fridge in a sealed container for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds to bring back their fluffiness.

Freezer: For extended storage, wrap each bun tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 8 weeks.

Reheating: Thaw frozen homemade honey buns at room temperature before glazing. For best results, warm them in the microwave or oven to restore their soft texture.

Homemade Honey Buns Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right ripeness of ingredients for homemade honey buns?
Absolutely! For the best results, use fresh, high-quality ingredients. The milk should be warmed to about 110°F (43°C) but not scalding, as this can kill the yeast. Make sure your yeast is fresh; expired yeast can lead to a dense texture. Eggs should be at room temperature, enhancing the dough’s richness and aiding in a better rise.

What’s the best way to store my homemade honey buns, and how long do they last?
For the freshest taste, keep cooled honey buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to prolong their shelf life, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days; just make sure to reheat them briefly in the microwave for a fluffy texture.

Can I freeze homemade honey buns, and if so, how?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze them! Wrap each cooled bun tightly in plastic wrap, making sure to seal it well to prevent freezer burn. Place the wrapped buns in a freezer bag and they will stay fresh for up to 8 weeks. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature and reheat in the microwave for a few seconds or warm them in the oven.

What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise properly?
Very! If your dough isn’t rising, first check the yeast; it should be fresh and properly activated. If the dough feels dense, ensure that the environment is warm enough during the rising process—sometimes a cool kitchen can hinder rise. Try moving the dough to a warmer spot, such as the oven with the light on, for a more consistent temperature.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind while making homemade honey buns?
Yes! This recipe is vegetarian-friendly, and you can easily adapt it for plant-based diets. Substitute whole milk with non-dairy options like almond or oat milk, and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water) instead of a large egg. However, keep in mind that these changes can affect flavor and texture slightly, so it’s best to experiment with what suits your preferences!

Can I substitute honey in the glaze?
Absolutely! If you want to switch things up, honey can be replaced with maple syrup for a unique twist on the flavor profile. Just whisk together powdered sugar with the maple syrup and water (or milk) to reach your desired glaze consistency. The result will be a delightful alternative that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon flavors!