Homemade Honey Buns are a delightful treat with a soft, fluffy interior, swirls of cinnamon, and a perfectly sweet glaze. These buns, fried to golden perfection, are a nostalgic reminder of classic bakery-style snacks, but better because they’re made from scratch in your kitchen. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet indulgence anytime, these honey buns are sure to impress with their irresistible flavor and texture.
Making honey buns at home may seem intimidating, but this step-by-step recipe simplifies the process. From the rich dough to the creamy icing, every detail is crafted for maximum flavor and enjoyment. These buns are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for sharing with loved ones or savoring with a cup of coffee.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Better Than Store-Bought: Homemade buns are fresher, softer, and more flavorful.
• Customizable Sweetness: Adjust the cinnamon and icing to your preference.
• Impressive Yet Simple: A perfect project for weekends or special occasions.
Ingredients
For the Honey Buns:
• 2¼ cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup sugar
• ½ tsp salt
• ⅔ cup milk
• 1 packet instant yeast
• ⅓ cup butter, melted and cooled
• 1 egg
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1½ tsp vegetable oil
• 2 tsp cinnamon
• 2–2½ cups vegetable oil, for frying
For the Icing:
• 3 tbsp butter, melted
• 1¼ cups powdered sugar, sifted
• 2 tbsp milk
• 2 tsp honey
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
1. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine the flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Heat the milk in the microwave for about 30 seconds until it reaches 110°F.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk the warm milk with yeast, melted butter, egg, and vanilla until well combined.
Step 2: Knead the Dough
1. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients in the stand mixer.
2. Knead on medium speed for 10 minutes, scraping down the sides occasionally to ensure all ingredients are incorporated.
Step 3: Let the Dough Rise
1. Grease a large bowl with vegetable oil.
2. Form the dough into a ball and place it in the prepared bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise for about 1½ hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 4: Shape the Buns
1. Press down the dough and transfer it to a lightly floured surface.
2. Roll the dough into a rectangle approximately 15 inches long and 8 inches wide.
3. Sprinkle the cinnamon evenly over the dough.
4. Starting at the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Seal the edge by wetting it with water and pinching it closed.
Step 5: Slice the Buns
1. Use unscented dental floss or a sharp knife to cut the log into 1-inch thick slices.
2. Place the slices on wax paper, leaving space between them. Spray the tops lightly with nonstick spray and cover with plastic wrap. Allow them to rise for 30 minutes.
Step 6: Fry the Honey Buns
1. Heat 2–2½ cups of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Once the oil is hot, fry the buns a few at a time, cooking each side until golden brown.
3. Transfer the fried buns to paper towels to absorb excess oil.
Step 7: Make the Icing
1. In a small bowl, combine melted butter, powdered sugar, milk, honey, and vanilla. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Step 8: Ice the Buns
1. While the buns are still warm, dip the tops into the icing.
2. Place the buns on wax or parchment paper and allow the icing to harden before serving.
Tips
• Even Slicing: Use dental floss to cut clean slices without squishing the dough.
• Perfect Frying Temperature: Keep the oil at a consistent medium heat to prevent burning.
• Extra Glaze: Double the icing recipe if you love a generously coated honey bun.
Storage Options
• Refrigeration: Store leftover honey buns in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Warm them slightly before serving.
• Freezing: Freeze unfrosted buns for up to 2 months. Thaw, warm, and glaze before serving.
Homemade Honey Buns are a sweet, indulgent treat that’s worth every moment of preparation. Soft, cinnamony, and topped with a luscious glaze, they’re a guaranteed hit for breakfast, dessert, or any time you want something special. Enjoy the comforting taste of these homemade delights!
