Honey Bun Brownies Recipe
If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that perfectly blends gooey, cinnamon-spiced sweetness with the comforting crumb of a cake mix brownie, you’ve hit the jackpot with this Honey Bun Brownies Recipe. Imagine the taste of a classic honey bun transformed into a luscious, swirly brownie that’s delightfully moist and topped with a smooth vanilla glaze. This recipe captures all the cozy, nostalgic flavors we love, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple, pantry-friendly ingredients is the first step toward creating your irresistible Honey Bun Brownies Recipe. Each component plays a key role, whether it’s adding richness, tenderness, or that warm spice that makes the dessert memorable.
- Yellow cake mix: The foundation of the brownies, providing softness and structure without fuss.
- Large eggs: They bind everything together and contribute to the tender crumb.
- Sour cream: Adds a luscious moisture and slight tang that enhances richness.
- Vegetable oil: Keeps the brownies super moist and helps with a glossy finish.
- Light brown sugar: Sweetens and adds a hint of molasses depth when combined with cinnamon.
- Ground cinnamon: A warm, fragrant spice that’s the heartbeat of the honey bun flavor.
- Powdered sugar: Used to make the silky vanilla glaze topping that ties everything together.
- Milk: Loosens the glaze just enough to drizzle beautifully over the brownies.
- Vanilla extract: Brings a sweet, aromatic note that complements the cinnamon perfectly.
How to Make Honey Bun Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F and generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures your brownies won’t stick, making it easy to slice and serve later. A smoothly greased dish helps develop that perfect golden crust.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, eggs, sour cream, and vegetable oil. Stir vigorously until the batter is completely smooth and silky. This quick step is where all the magic starts—the perfect batter sets the stage for soft, tender brownies.
Step 3: Make the Cinnamon-Sugar Swirl
In a separate bowl, mix the brown sugar and ground cinnamon until well blended. This cinnamon-sugar duo gives the honey bun brownies their signature sweet and spicy swirl, adding bursts of deep flavor throughout.
Step 4: Layer and Swirl the Brownies
Pour half of the batter into your prepared baking dish, smoothing it into an even layer. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the batter. Then, dollop the remaining batter on top and gently spread it out. Using a knife, swirl the layers together by cutting through the batter in gentle circular motions—this creates those beautiful, sweet pockets of cinnamon goodness.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The smell wafting from your oven will be pure comfort food bliss, filled with sweet cinnamon aromas and buttery warmth.
Step 6: Prepare the Vanilla Glaze
While the brownies are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and glossy. This glaze lifts the Honey Bun Brownies Recipe from great to unforgettable, adding a rich, sweet coating that hardens slightly as it cools.
Step 7: Glaze and Cool
Once your brownies are out of the oven, let them cool just a little before drizzling the vanilla glaze evenly on top. Let the glaze set so it’s perfectly firm but still soft enough to melt in your mouth with each bite. Now, your homemade Honey Bun Brownies are ready to slice and enjoy!
How to Serve Honey Bun Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
To give your Honey Bun Brownies a little extra personality, try sprinkling a pinch of extra cinnamon or a few chopped pecans on top of the glaze before setting. Fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream also pairs beautifully, inviting a creamy contrast to the sweet, dense brownies.
Side Dishes
These brownies stand strong on their own but also shine alongside a fresh berry compote or a cup of rich coffee or tea. A simple fruit salad can add a refreshing burst, balancing the sweet indulgence with natural brightness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun dessert board, cut your Honey Bun Brownies into mini squares and arrange them with bite-sized cookies, nuts, and seasonal fruits. Another idea is layering brownie chunks in a dessert trifle with whipped cream and cinnamon apples for an inviting twist that’s perfect for sharing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover Honey Bun Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them moist and fresh for up to 3 days. This makes them the perfect make-ahead treat for busy weeks or unexpected guests.
Freezing
You can freeze these brownies by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then placing them in a freezer-safe container. They freeze well for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying again.
Reheating
To bring back that fresh-baked feel, warm a brownie piece briefly in the microwave (about 15 seconds) or pop it in a low oven until just heated through. It’s the perfect way to revive all that soft texture and gooey glaze.
FAQs
Can I use a different cake mix for this Honey Bun Brownies Recipe?
Absolutely! While yellow cake mix works best for its subtle sweetness and crumb, you can experiment with vanilla or butter cake mix for slight variations in flavor.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, if you substitute the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free baking mix, your Honey Bun Brownies will be safe for gluten-sensitive folks without sacrificing taste.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the batter?
Definitely! Chopped pecans or walnuts add a lovely crunch, and chocolate chips can bring an extra layer of indulgence that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon swirl.
What’s the best way to get the swirl pattern?
Use a butter knife or skewer to gently cut through the layers in a swirling motion, taking care not to overmix, so you keep distinct pockets of cinnamon sugar.
How long do I need to wait before glazing the brownies?
Wait until the brownies are warm but not piping hot—about 5 to 10 minutes out of the oven—so the glaze melts right over the top without becoming too runny.
Final Thoughts
This Honey Bun Brownies Recipe is one of those delightful discoveries that quickly becomes a family favorite. Its exciting combination of cinnamon sweetness, moist cake-like texture, and luscious glaze make every bite feel like a warm hug. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just treating yourself, these brownies are sure to brighten your day and impress anyone lucky enough to share them with you. Give them a try—you won’t regret it!
Print
Honey Bun Brownies Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Honey Bun Brownies combine the moist texture of yellow cake mix with a sweet cinnamon swirl and a luscious vanilla glaze. This easy-to-make dessert delivers the beloved flavors of a honey bun in a rich, tender brownie form, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Brownie Batter
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- ¾ cup vegetable oil
Cinnamon Swirl
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Vanilla Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Mix the Batter: In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, eggs, sour cream, and vegetable oil. Mix until the batter is smooth and well-blended with no lumps.
- Prepare Cinnamon Sugar: In a separate bowl, mix together the packed light brown sugar and ground cinnamon until fully combined.
- Layer the Batter and Cinnamon: Pour half of the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the batter layer.
- Add Remaining Batter and Swirl: Pour the remaining batter over the cinnamon sugar layer and spread gently to cover. Use a knife to swirl the layers together slightly to create a marbled effect.
- Bake the Brownies: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. The brownies are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Make the Vanilla Glaze: While the brownies are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Glaze the Brownies: Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool slightly but while still warm, pour the vanilla glaze evenly over the top to soak in and set.
- Serve: Let the glaze set completely before slicing the brownies into 12 equal pieces and serving.
Notes
- For richer flavor, add ½ teaspoon of nutmeg to the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- These brownies taste great both warm and chilled.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
