Name: Homemade Honey Bun Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the dough:; 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/3 cup granulated sugar; 2 1/4 tsp instant yeast; 1 cup warm milk; 2 large eggs; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 tsp salt; For the filling:; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1 tbsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 tbsp honey (optional); For the glaze:; 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar; 2–3 tbsp milk; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tbsp honey

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This Homemade Honey Bun Recipe delivers soft, sweet rolls with buttery cinnamon swirls and a warm vanilla glaze that melts into every golden crevice. These tender buns are like a cross between a cinnamon roll and a glazed donut—sweet, sticky, and totally irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how these honey buns come out of the oven perfectly fluffy and fragrant, with a caramelized swirl of cinnamon sugar and that classic glossy glaze. They taste just like the store-bought version—but better, because I make them fresh, with simple ingredients, and no preservatives. They’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack any time of day.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the dough:

All-purpose flour
Granulated sugar
Instant yeast
Warm milk
Eggs
Unsalted butter (softened)
Salt

For the filling:

Brown sugar
Ground cinnamon
Unsalted butter (melted)
Honey (optional, for added depth)

For the glaze:

Powdered sugar
Milk
Vanilla extract
Honey (for that signature touch)

Directions

I start by combining warm milk, sugar, and yeast in a large bowl. I let it sit until foamy, then mix in eggs, butter, and salt.
I gradually add flour and knead the dough until smooth and elastic—about 8–10 minutes by hand or 5 minutes with a stand mixer.
I cover the dough and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, usually 1 to 1.5 hours.
I roll the dough into a large rectangle on a floured surface and brush it with melted butter.
I sprinkle the cinnamon and brown sugar mixture evenly over the dough, drizzle with honey (optional), and roll it up tightly from the long edge.
I slice the log into individual buns, about 1 inch thick, and place them on a greased baking sheet.
I cover the buns and let them rise again for 30–45 minutes until puffy.
I bake them at 350°F (175°C) for 15–18 minutes, or until golden brown.
While they bake, I mix powdered sugar, milk, vanilla, and honey for the glaze.
I brush the warm buns generously with glaze as soon as they come out of the oven, letting it soak into every swirl.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 12 honey buns. It takes around 2.5 hours total—30 minutes to prep, 1.5 to 2 hours to rise, and 15–18 minutes to bake.

Variations

Sometimes I add a touch of nutmeg to the filling for a little warmth, or swap out the honey in the glaze for maple syrup. If I want a richer dough, I use half whole milk and half heavy cream. I’ve also made mini versions for brunch spreads by cutting smaller rolls.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the fridge for 4–5 days. To reheat, I microwave them for 10–15 seconds, or warm them in the oven at 300°F for a few minutes. The glaze softens beautifully when warmed.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, I often prepare the dough the night before and let it rise in the fridge. I bring it to room temperature before rolling and baking the next day.

Do I need a stand mixer?

No, I knead by hand when I don’t use a mixer. It takes a little longer but works just as well.

Can I freeze honey buns?

Yes, I freeze them after baking and glazing. I wrap each one individually and thaw at room temperature or reheat gently.

What’s the best way to keep them soft?

I store them tightly covered and avoid overbaking to keep them moist and tender.

Can I skip the honey?

Yes, but I find honey gives the buns their signature flavor. I’ve substituted maple syrup or light corn syrup in a pinch.

Conclusion

Homemade Honey Buns are everything I love in a sweet roll—soft, sticky, warm, and full of cinnamon goodness. The honey glaze takes them over the top, giving that melt-in-your-mouth finish I always crave. Whether I serve them fresh from the oven or reheat them for a quick treat, these buns never last long in my kitchen.