Indulge in the irresistible sweetness of Homemade Honey Buns with this delightful recipe. These soft, fluffy buns are infused with honey and cinnamon, creating a comforting treat that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any time you’re craving something sweet. Whether you enjoy them fresh from the oven or warmed up with a cup of coffee, these Homemade Honey Buns are sure to become a new favorite in your household.
Who is This Recipe For?
This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves the warm, comforting flavors of honey and cinnamon. Whether you’re an experienced baker looking for a new project or a novice in the kitchen eager to try your hand at homemade baked goods, these Honey Buns are a delicious and rewarding treat to make. If you enjoy the aroma of freshly baked bread and the taste of sweet, sticky honey, then this recipe is for you.
Why Homemade Honey Buns?
Homemade Honey Buns offer all the nostalgic charm of the store-bought version, but with the added satisfaction of knowing they were made from scratch in your own kitchen. With their tender, golden dough and gooey honey-cinnamon filling, these buns are a true labor of love that will fill your home with warmth and delicious aromas. Plus, they’re perfect for sharing with family and friends or enjoying as a special treat all to yourself.
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
For the Filling:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
For the Dough:
- In a small saucepan, heat the milk and butter over low heat until the butter is melted. Remove from heat and let cool until warm but not hot.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk mixture, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until the yeast is foamy.
- Add 3 cups of flour and salt to the yeast mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, adding more flour as needed, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
For the Filling:
- In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, honey, brown sugar, and cinnamon until smooth.
Assembling the Honey Buns:
- Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it out into a large rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.
- Spread the filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Starting from one long edge, tightly roll up the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal.
- Use a sharp knife to slice the log into 12 equal pieces.
- Place the sliced buns in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let them rise in a warm place for 30-45 minutes, or until puffy.
Baking the Honey Buns:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the risen buns in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the buns from the oven and let them cool slightly while you prepare the glaze.
For the Glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Drizzle the glaze over the warm Honey Buns and serve immediately.
Tips and Tricks:
- For extra flavor, you can add chopped nuts or raisins to the filling mixture before spreading it over the dough.
- Make sure to let the dough rise in a warm place to ensure proper fermentation and a light, airy texture.
- If you don’t have whole milk on hand, you can use 2% or even skim milk, but whole milk will yield the richest flavor and texture.
Kitchen Equipment Needed:
- Small saucepan
- Mixing bowls
- Rolling pin
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Sharp knife
How to Store Leftovers:
If you happen to have any leftover Honey Buns (though it’s unlikely!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Warm them up in the microwave for a few seconds before serving to enjoy them fresh and gooey.
Serving Suggestions:
These Homemade Honey Buns are delicious on their own, but you can take them to the next level by serving them with a side of fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream. Pair them with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast or afternoon snack.
FAQ:
Q: Can I freeze the unbaked buns for later? A: Yes, you can freeze the unbaked buns before the final rise. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag once frozen. When ready to bake, let them thaw and rise in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.
Q: Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast? A: Yes, you can use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast in this recipe. Simply use the same amount of instant yeast and skip the step of proofing the yeast in warm milk.
Q: Can I make these Honey Buns ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the dough and assemble the buns up to a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator overnight, then let them come to room temperature and rise before baking as directed.
Conclusion:
Homemade Honey Buns are a delightful treat that brings together the comforting flavors of honey and cinnamon in a soft, fluffy bun. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or warmed up with a generous drizzle of glaze, these buns are sure to bring a smile to your face and warmth to your heart. So roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and get ready to savor the sweet goodness of Homemade Honey Buns!