Strawberry Honeybun Cake

Introduction

Strawberry Honeybun Cake is a delightful twist on the classic honeybun cake, blending the comforting warmth of cinnamon and sugar with the fruity sweetness of strawberries. It’s ultra-moist, bursting with flavor, and finished with a sugary glaze that melts into every layer. Perfect for brunch, potlucks, or a sweet treat with coffee, this cake is both nostalgic and refreshing.

Origin and Cultural Significance

The original honeybun cake was inspired by the popular honey bun pastry, a Southern bakery staple known for its cinnamon swirl and sticky glaze. It became popular in home baking circles during the 1970s when boxed cake mixes became a pantry essential. The Strawberry Honeybun Cake variation is a more recent innovation, marrying the traditional cinnamon-sugar swirl with fruity strawberry preserves, giving it a springtime or Valentine’s Day flair. It symbolizes the adaptability of classic Southern desserts to modern palates.

Ingredients Quantity

For the Cake:

1 box yellow cake mix
4 large eggs
1 cup sour cream
¾ cup vegetable oil
1 cup strawberry preserves or jam
½ cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

For the Glaze:

2 cups powdered sugar
4 tablespoons milk (add more for desired consistency)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Additions

Fresh diced strawberries folded into the batter
Chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch
Strawberry extract for enhanced flavor
Lemon zest in the glaze for a citrusy pop
Cream cheese swirl layered through the middle for richness

Tips for Success

Don’t overmix the batter; mix until just combined to keep the cake tender.
Let the cake cool slightly before glazing to prevent the glaze from running off completely.
Use high-quality strawberry preserves for the best flavor.
Grease and flour your pan well to avoid sticking, especially if using a Bundt pan.
For extra moistness, cover the cake while it’s still slightly warm to trap in steam.

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare Pan:

Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or a Bundt pan and set aside.

2. Mix the Cake Batter:

In a large mixing bowl, combine cake mix, eggs, sour cream, and oil.
Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes or until smooth.

3. Layer the Cake:

Spread half of the batter into the prepared pan.
In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon.
Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the batter.
Spoon the strawberry preserves over the sugar layer in dollops.
Carefully spread the remaining batter over the top.

4. Bake:

Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes.

5. Make the Glaze:

In a medium bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
Adjust the thickness by adding more milk if needed.

6. Glaze the Cake:

Pour glaze over the warm cake and let it set for 15–20 minutes before slicing.

Description

This Strawberry Honeybun Cake is everything you love in a classic honeybun—soft, cinnamon-swirled, and sweet—with a fruity strawberry surprise in every bite. The glaze seeps into the cake, creating a rich, gooey texture that’s irresistibly moist. Each slice reveals beautiful pink swirls and a golden crumb.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 360
Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Sugar: 30g
Protein: 3g
Sodium: 270mg

Conclusion

Strawberry Honeybun Cake offers the perfect combination of simplicity, sweetness, and a touch of fruity flair. Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion or just to treat yourself, it’s bound to become a favorite. The ease of using a cake mix with elevated add-ins makes it accessible to both beginner and experienced bakers.

Recommendation

Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh strawberries for an extra-special dessert. It also pairs beautifully with a hot cup of tea or coffee, making it ideal for brunch or afternoon gatherings.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

To lighten it up, you can use a reduced-sugar jam, light sour cream, and substitute half the oil with applesauce. You’ll still enjoy the rich flavor and texture while reducing calories and fat. Portion control and mindful eating help you indulge without guilt.