The Honey Bun Pound Cake is a delightful treat that captures the essence of homemade goodness. With its moist texture and a swirl of cinnamon, this cake is perfect for any occasion—from family gatherings to cozy evenings at home. The sweet honey glaze adds a unique touch, making it a standout dessert that’s sure to impress everyone at the table.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Cake:
- For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- For the Honey Glaze:
- How to Make Honey Bun Pound Cake
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Step 2: Make the Batter
- Step 3: Prepare Cinnamon Swirl
- Step 4: Assemble Cake
- Step 5: Bake
- Step 6: Make Honey Glaze
- Step 7: Glaze the Cake
- How to Serve Honey Bun Pound Cake
- Pair with Fresh Fruit
- Add Whipped Topping
- Enjoy with Beverages
- How to Perfect Honey Bun Pound Cake
- Best Side Dishes for Honey Bun Pound Cake
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Honey Bun Pound Cake
- Reheating Honey Bun Pound Cake
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What makes Honey Bun Pound Cake unique?
- Can I use other types of milk?
- How do I know when my Honey Bun Pound Cake is done?
- Can I customize my Honey Bun Pound Cake?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Preparation: This cake comes together quickly, allowing you to enjoy baking without the fuss.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of vanilla, cinnamon, and honey creates a rich flavor profile that appeals to all taste buds.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it warm for dessert or as a sweet addition to your morning coffee.
- Impressive Presentation: The marbled effect from the cinnamon swirl makes it look as good as it tastes.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or just an afternoon treat, this cake fits right in.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth baking experience. Having everything ready will make preparation easier.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Bundt or loaf pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Bundt or loaf pan: This gives the cake its beautiful shape and allows for even baking.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently without messy spills.
- Whisk: Perfect for ensuring that your batter is light and fluffy by incorporating air during mixing.

Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Honey Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Honey Bun Pound Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a Bundt or loaf pan to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Make the Batter
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in vanilla extract.
- Alternately add the dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
Step 3: Prepare Cinnamon Swirl
In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter until well combined.
Step 4: Assemble Cake
- Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan.
- Spoon half of the cinnamon swirl mixture over the batter.
- Pour remaining batter over the swirl mixture.
- Sprinkle remaining cinnamon swirl on top; gently swirl with a knife for a marbled effect.
Step 5: Bake
Bake in preheated oven for 55-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Make Honey Glaze
In another bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, honey, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust milk to reach your desired consistency.
Step 7: Glaze the Cake
Once baked, drizzle glaze over warm cake while it’s still in the pan. Allow it to set before slicing into this delicious Honey Bun Pound Cake!
How to Serve Honey Bun Pound Cake
Serving Honey Bun Pound Cake is a delightful experience, as its rich flavor and moist texture pair well with various accompaniments. Here are some serving suggestions that enhance this scrumptious treat.
Pair with Fresh Fruit
- Berries: Serve with strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a refreshing contrast.
- Sliced Bananas: The sweetness of bananas complements the cake perfectly.
- Citrus Segments: Oranges or grapefruits add a zesty brightness to each bite.
Add Whipped Topping
- Homemade Whipped Cream: Lighten up each slice with freshly whipped cream for extra indulgence.
- Coconut Whipped Cream: For a dairy-free option, try coconut whipped cream; it adds a tropical flair.
Enjoy with Beverages
- Coffee: A warm cup of coffee balances the sweetness of the cake beautifully.
- Tea: Herbal or black tea can enhance the experience, bringing out the cake’s flavors.
How to Perfect Honey Bun Pound Cake
To achieve the ultimate Honey Bun Pound Cake, follow these helpful tips for a flawless bake every time.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensuring butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature helps create a smoother batter.
- Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off to avoid dense cake from overpacking.
- Don’t Overmix Batter: Mix until just combined to keep your pound cake light and fluffy.
- Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures for consistent results.
- Cool Completely Before Glazing: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to cool completely on a rack before glazing.
Best Side Dishes for Honey Bun Pound Cake
Honey Bun Pound Cake pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its sweet flavors. Here are some tasty options to consider.
- Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the richness of the cake.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a creamy, crunchy side that enhances each bite.
- Ice Cream: Vanilla or caramel ice cream offers a rich contrast that’s simply irresistible.
- Chia Seed Pudding: This healthy option provides texture and nutrition alongside the sweet dessert.
- Nutty Granola Bars: Homemade granola bars add crunch and wholesome ingredients for a satisfying pairing.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can create an interesting flavor contrast with the sweetness of the cake.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Honey Bun Pound Cake, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.
- Bold Measurements: Not measuring your ingredients accurately can lead to an imbalanced cake. Always use dry measuring cups for flour and sugar, and liquid measuring cups for milk and melted butter.
- Bold Overmixing Batter: Mixing the batter too much can create a dense cake. Mix just until combined; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
- Bold Wrong Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can cause uneven baking. Make sure to preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer to verify the temperature.
- Bold Skipping the Glaze: The glaze adds sweetness and moisture. Don’t skip it! Drizzle it on while the cake is warm for better absorption.
- Bold Not Greasing the Pan: A well-greased pan prevents sticking. Ensure your Bundt or loaf pan is properly greased and floured before pouring in the batter.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Honey Bun Pound Cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Use an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to maintain freshness.
Freezing Honey Bun Pound Cake
- You can freeze Honey Bun Pound Cake for up to 3 months.
- Wrap slices or whole cakes tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
Reheating Honey Bun Pound Cake
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), wrap the cake in foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for about 15-20 seconds.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over low heat, add a pat of butter, and toast each slice until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re curious about making Honey Bun Pound Cake, check out these frequently asked questions that might help you along the way!
What makes Honey Bun Pound Cake unique?
Honey Bun Pound Cake stands out due to its rich flavor, moist texture, and delightful cinnamon swirl that gives it that classic honey bun taste.
Can I use other types of milk?
Yes! You can substitute whole milk with almond milk, oat milk, or any preferred dairy-free alternatives without compromising flavor.
How do I know when my Honey Bun Pound Cake is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached, your cake is ready to enjoy!
Can I customize my Honey Bun Pound Cake?
Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits for added texture and flavor variations that suit your taste.
Final Thoughts
Honey Bun Pound Cake is a delightful treat that combines sweetness with warmth from cinnamon. Its versatility allows you to customize it however you like. Whether enjoyed as dessert or with coffee, this recipe is sure to please anyone who tries it!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
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Honey Bun Pound Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful sweetness of Honey Bun Pound Cake, a moist and rich dessert that embodies homemade goodness. This cake features a luscious cinnamon swirl, perfectly complemented by a sweet honey glaze, making it an ideal treat for gatherings or quiet evenings at home. The harmonious blend of vanilla, cinnamon, and honey creates a flavor profile that appeals to everyone, ensuring this recipe will become a favorite. Whether served warm as a dessert or alongside your morning coffee, this cake is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a Bundt or loaf pan.
- In one bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, cream softened butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time followed by vanilla.
- Gradually mix in dry ingredients alternating with milk until just combined.
- Prepare the cinnamon swirl by combining brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter.
- Layer half the batter into the pan, add half of the cinnamon mixture, pour remaining batter on top, and swirl with a knife.
- Bake for 55-65 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- For the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, honey, milk, and vanilla until smooth and drizzle over the warm cake.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (80g)
- Calories: 381
- Sugar: 36g
- Sodium: 244mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 88mg