Homemade Honey Bun Recipe (Baked or Fried)
These delightful Homemade Honey Buns will transport you back to simpler times with their soft, sweet texture and comforting flavors. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a special treat, this recipe offers the same melt-in-your-mouth satisfaction as store-bought varieties. With a cinnamon sugar filling and a creamy homemade glaze, these honey buns are sure to impress at any gathering or cozy family brunch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and requires no fancy techniques—perfect for bakers of all levels.
- Flexible Cooking Methods: Choose between baking or frying these honey buns based on your preference.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weekend brunch or a festive gathering, these honey buns fit right in.
- Mouthwatering Flavor: The combination of honey, cinnamon, and creamy glaze creates an irresistible taste that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
- Customizable: Feel free to add nuts or dried fruits to the filling for an extra twist!
Tools and Preparation
To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, ensure you have the right tools ready. Having the right equipment can significantly affect the outcome of your homemade honey buns.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer
- Dough hook
- Rolling pin
- Sharp serrated knife
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer: Makes mixing and kneading the dough effortless and saves time compared to manual methods.
- Dough hook: Ensures that the dough is kneaded evenly, resulting in a better texture.
- Rolling pin: Helps achieve the perfect thickness when rolling out the dough for even baking.
- Sharp serrated knife: Cuts through the dough cleanly without squishing it, maintaining its shape.
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.
- 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 large bowl. Set aside.
- In another bowl, mix together warm water, honey (heat if necessary), egg, and vanilla extract until combined. Melt the shortening and mix it into this wet mixture.
- Attach a dough hook to your stand mixer. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients. Mix on low speed until well combined.
Step 2: Knead the Dough
- Increase mixer speed to medium and knead the dough for about 8 minutes until slightly sticky but workable.
- Shape the dough into a ball using your hands or a bowl scraper. Place it in a lightly oiled glass bowl, turning it to coat with oil.
Step 3: Let It Rise
Cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Place in a warm spot free from drafts. Allow it to rise for 1 to 2 hours until almost doubled in size.
Step 4: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Mixture
While your dough rises:
1. Combine cinnamon and sugar in a small bowl; set aside.
Step 5: Roll Out Dough
Once risen:
1. Turn out onto a floured surface and roll into an 8” wide by 12” long rectangle.
2. Dust with cinnamon sugar mixture while leaving an edge clean.
Step 6: Shape Buns
- Roll up tightly from one long side toward the clean edge.
- Brush the clean edge with water; press to seal.
- Cut off pinched ends about 1½ inches long; slice into equal 1-inch pieces.
Step 7: Final Rise
Place each piece onto parchment-lined baking sheets with space between them; gently press down slightly on each piece. Let them rise for about 45 minutes until puffy but not doubled in size.
Enjoy making these delicious homemade honey buns! They are perfect for any occasion and sure to be loved by all who try them!
How to Serve Homemade Honey Bun Recipe (Baked or Fried)
These delightful Homemade Honey Buns can be enjoyed in various ways to enhance your breakfast or dessert experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will make your honey buns even more irresistible.
With a Fresh Fruit Compote
- A warm fruit compote, such as mixed berries or peaches, adds a delightful tartness that complements the sweetness of the honey buns.
Drizzled with Extra Honey
- For those who love an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle some warm honey over each bun before serving. It adds a sticky finish that enhances the flavor.
Served with Whipped Cream
- Light and airy whipped cream provides a creamy contrast. Top each honey bun with a dollop for a more indulgent treat.
Accompanied by Coffee or Tea
- Pairing your honey buns with a hot cup of coffee or tea creates a comforting breakfast or afternoon snack that is simply perfect.
With Vanilla Ice Cream
- For a dessert twist, serve warm honey buns with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The melting ice cream creates a deliciously creamy experience.
Topped with Nuts
- Adding crushed nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, gives a crunchy texture that pairs well with the soft, sweet buns.

How to Perfect Homemade Honey Bun Recipe (Baked or Fried)
To achieve the best results with your homemade honey buns, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your buns turn out soft and flavorful every time.
- Use warm water: Ensure the water temperature is between 105°F-115°F for optimal yeast activation.
- Knead well: Knead the dough for at least 8 minutes; this helps develop gluten and creates a better texture.
- Don’t rush the rise: Allow sufficient time for rising; it’s crucial for achieving that fluffy texture.
- Experiment with fillings: Consider adding chocolate chips or dried fruits for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
- Monitor frying temperature: If frying, keep oil at 350°F to prevent greasy buns and achieve an even golden color.
- Store properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness and moisture.
Best Side Dishes for Homemade Honey Bun Recipe (Baked or Fried)
Pairing side dishes with your homemade honey buns can elevate your meal. Here are some delicious options to consider:
- Fresh Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits provides refreshing flavors and balances the sweetness of the honey buns.
- Scrambled Eggs – Lightly seasoned scrambled eggs offer protein that complements the sugary treat nicely.
- Breakfast Sausages – Savory sausage links add a hearty element to your meal, creating a satisfying contrast.
- Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a healthy side that pairs wonderfully with sweet pastries.
- Crispy Bacon – The salty crunch of bacon makes for an enjoyable pairing alongside sweet baked goods.
- Oatmeal – A warm bowl of oatmeal can provide fiber and sustenance, making it an ideal breakfast companion.
- Smoothies – A refreshing smoothie can add nutritional value while being easy to prepare alongside your honey buns.
- Hash Browns – Crispy hash browns offer another savory option to balance out the sweetness from the honey buns.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making your Homemade Honey Bun Recipe, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your honey buns turn out perfectly.
- Ignoring Ingredient Temperatures: Using cold ingredients can hinder the yeast activation. Always use warm water and room temperature eggs for the best rise.
- Overworking the Dough: Kneading too much can make the buns tough. Aim for a smooth, elastic dough but do not over-knead it.
- Neglecting Rising Time: Rushing the rising process will result in dense buns. Allow the dough to rise until nearly doubled for fluffy honey buns.
- Skipping the Cinnamon Sugar Filling: Missing this step can lead to bland buns. Generously sprinkle cinnamon sugar before rolling up the dough for flavor.
- Not Preheating Oil Properly: Frying in oil that isn’t hot enough can make them greasy. Ensure your oil is heated to the right temperature before frying.
- Forgetting to Glaze: A glaze adds sweetness and moisture. Don’t skip this step if you want your honey buns to be irresistible.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing Homemade Honey Bun Recipe (Baked or Fried)
- Wrap each bun individually in plastic wrap.
- Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container; they can last up to 3 months.
Reheating Homemade Honey Bun Recipe (Baked or Fried)
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and place on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds, keeping an eye on them to avoid drying out.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for about 5 minutes until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re curious about making these homemade treats, here are some frequently asked questions.
Can I customize my Homemade Honey Bun Recipe (Baked or Fried)?
Absolutely! You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits into the filling for extra flavor.
What if I don’t have instant yeast?
You can substitute it with active dry yeast, but you’ll need to activate it in warm water first before mixing into the dough.
How do I know when my honey buns are done?
They should be golden brown on top and spring back when lightly pressed. If you’re frying them, they should float and be golden-brown as well.
Can I make these honey buns ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and let it rise overnight in the fridge, then shape and bake them fresh in the morning.
What should I serve with my homemade honey buns?
These sweet treats pair wonderfully with coffee or tea, making them perfect for breakfast or brunch gatherings.
Final Thoughts
This Homemade Honey Bun Recipe (Baked or Fried) is not only delightful but also versatile! You can easily customize them with various fillings and toppings. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or reheated later, these honey buns are sure to bring joy and comfort to any occasion. Give this recipe a try and discover how satisfying homemade sweets can be!

Homemade Honey Buns
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the nostalgia of warm, sweet Homemade Honey Buns that are perfect for breakfast or dessert. These fluffy treats feature a delightful cinnamon sugar filling and a creamy glaze that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Whether you choose to bake or fry them, this easy recipe offers unbeatable comfort food satisfaction. Perfect for cozy family brunches or festive gatherings, these honey buns are sure to impress your guests.
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
- Cinnamon sugar (for filling)
- Creamy glaze (powdered sugar, honey, butter)
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. In another bowl, combine warm water, honey, egg, and vanilla; then add melted shortening.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients using a stand mixer with a dough hook. Knead until slightly sticky.
- Shape into a ball and let rise covered in a warm area for 1 to 2 hours.
- Roll out the dough into a rectangle, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar, roll up tightly, and cut into pieces.
- Allow the pieces to rise again for about 45 minutes on parchment-lined sheets.
- Bake at 350°F until golden or fry until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Breakfast/Dessert
- Method: Baking/Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 honey bun (50g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg