Honey buns are a delightful treat, perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack. With their soft, fluffy texture and rich honey glaze, they’re a homemade version of a bakery favorite. This easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through making delicious honey buns right in your kitchen.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup warm milk (110°F)
- ¼ cup warm water (110°F)
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
For the Filling:
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tbsp honey
For the Honey Glaze:
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1–2 tbsp milk
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Activate the Yeast: Combine warm water and yeast in a small bowl. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
- Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add warm milk, eggs, softened butter, and the activated yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook.
- Let it Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1–2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
Step 2: Roll and Fill
- Roll the Dough: Once risen, punch down the dough and roll it out into a rectangle (about 12×16 inches).
- Add the Filling: Spread melted butter evenly over the dough. Sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture on top, then drizzle with honey.
- Shape the Buns: Roll the dough tightly into a log, starting from the longer side. Cut into 12 even slices.
Step 3: Second Rise
- Arrange the Slices: Place the slices in a greased baking dish, leaving a little space between them.
- Let it Rise Again: Cover the dish with a towel and let the buns rise for another 30–45 minutes, until puffy.
Step 4: Bake
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the Honey Buns: Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Step 5: Glaze and Serve
- Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, honey, and milk until smooth.
- Glaze the Buns: Brush the glaze over the warm buns for a shiny, sweet finish.
- Enjoy: Serve warm and enjoy your homemade honey buns!
Tips for Success
- Temperature Matters: Ensure your milk and water are warm, but not too hot, to activate the yeast properly.
- Don’t Skip Rising: Allow enough time for the dough to rise fully for soft and fluffy buns.
- Adjust Glaze Consistency: Add more milk for a thinner glaze or more powdered sugar for a thicker glaze.
FAQs
Can I make honey buns ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the buns up to the second rise, cover them tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temperature before baking.
Can I freeze honey buns?
Absolutely! Once baked, let the buns cool completely, then freeze them in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven when ready to serve.
What can I use instead of honey?
If you don’t have honey, you can use maple syrup or agave nectar as a substitute.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover honey buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the fridge for up to a week.
Can I use a bread machine for the dough?
Yes, simply follow your bread machine’s instructions for sweet doughs, then proceed with the filling and shaping steps.
Enjoy this delightful honey bun recipe that’s sure to impress your family and friends!
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