Honey Bun Cookies
There’s something magical about a freshly baked cookie, and when it comes to the Honey Bun Cookies, that magic is even more pronounced. I still remember the first time I tasted these delightful treats at a friend’s gathering. The warm aroma filled the room, coaxing everyone into the kitchen, where I witnessed the transformation of ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary. The first bite was a revelation; the soft, chewy texture paired with that sweet glaze was unlike anything I had ever experienced. Since that day, I’ve made it my mission to perfect my own Honey Bun Cookies recipe, bringing the joy of those memories into my home.
Recipe Snapshot
35 mins
20 mins
15 mins
Medium
180 kcal
2 g
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
8 g
Grater, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet, Chef’s Knife, Whisk, Oven, Food Processor
The Best Thing About This Honey Bun Cookies
Comfort in Every Bite
These cookies are not just dessert; they’re a warm hug on a plate. The unique blend of flavors and textures creates an experience that feels both nostalgic and exciting.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or simply want to treat yourself, Honey Bun Cookies fits the bill perfectly. They’re versatile enough to be made for birthdays, holidays, or just a cozy night in.
Easy to Make
Even if you’re new to baking, this recipe is straightforward and forgiving. With just a few simple steps, you’ll whip up a batch that impresses everyone!
Impressive Glaze
The glaze adds a lovely finishing touch that elevates these cookies from ordinary to extraordinary. It’s glossy, sweet, and oh-so-satisfying.
Great for Sharing
These cookies are perfect for sharing with friends and family. Who wouldn’t want to receive a box of these delicious treats? They’re sure to bring smiles all around.
Ingredients Required for Honey Bun Cookies
When it comes to the ingredients for Honey Bun Cookies, quality matters. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that perfect balance of sweetness and texture. The combination of butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar creates a rich base, while cinnamon adds warmth and depth. It’s a delicious symphony that works harmoniously to create a satisfying treat.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup light brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs, room temp
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract, or to taste (this is 3 teaspoons)
- 2¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup confectioners’ sugar, sift if lumpy
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons milk, 2%, whole, or your favorite
Making This Honey Bun Cookies
Ready to dive into the delicious adventure of making Honey Bun Cookies? This recipe is not only fun but also incredibly satisfying. Follow these steps to create a cookie that’s sure to delight.
- Start by taking your butter and letting it soften at room temperature. This is crucial for achieving that light and fluffy texture. In a mixing bowl, add the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Using a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the mixture together on medium-high speed for about four minutes. You’re looking for it to become light and fluffy, which will help create a wonderful base for your cookies.
- Next, incorporate the eggs and vanilla extract. Beat them in until they are well combined, making sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure even mixing. This will take about two minutes. Setting this aside for now allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- In a separate large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients. Combine the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and kosher salt. Mixing these ingredients thoroughly ensures that the leavening agents and spices are evenly distributed throughout your dough.
- With the mixer running on low, slowly add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. This gradual process helps prevent any flour from flying everywhere and ensures a smooth dough without overmixing, which can toughen your cookies.
- Prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This step will prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup easier. Using a large cookie scoop, portion out the dough into evenly sized mounds—about three tablespoons each. These cookies are meant to be big and beautiful, just like the ones served at bakeries.
- After shaping the dough, gently press each mound down until they’re about a quarter-inch tall. This not only helps them bake evenly but also creates the perfect surface for adding the signature swirl.
- Now comes the fun part! Using the back of a dinner knife or a chopstick, create a spiral swirl starting from the center of each cookie and working your way outwards. This design is what makes the Honey Bun Cookies so appealing. If you need guidance, there are process photos available on the blog.
- Time to chill! Place the baking sheets in the freezer for about ten minutes or pop them in the refrigerator for forty-five to sixty minutes. This chilling step is essential—it helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking. If space is tight, transfer the dough to a plate; it’s okay if the mounds touch.
- While the cookies are chilling, preheat your oven to 350°F. This ensures that the cookies are greeted with the perfect heat level as soon as they hit the oven.
- Once chilled, bake your cookies for about thirteen to fifteen minutes. Keep an eye on them; the edges should just start to turn lightly golden brown. They may look underdone when you take them out, but they’ll continue to cook on the baking sheet, firming up as they cool.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about ten minutes before transferring them to wire racks. This step is crucial to prevent them from breaking apart. And while they cool, resist the urge to glaze warm cookies; it’ll just slide right off!
- For the glaze, in a separate mixing bowl, combine the ingredients: softened butter, confectioners’ sugar, honey, and milk. Whisk until smooth. It’s important to have the butter softened well for an easier mixing process.
- Using a pastry brush, evenly brush the glaze over the top of each cookie. Allow the glaze to set before you dive into these sweet creations.
Things Worth Knowing
- Chilling the dough really makes a difference in preventing spread.
- For a more intense cinnamon flavor, try increasing the amount slightly.
- Using room temperature eggs helps create a smoother batter.
- Don’t skip the sifting step for confectioners’ sugar; it keeps the glaze smooth.
Recipe Tips about Honey Bun Cookies
As you embark on making your Honey Bun Cookies, here are some tips to ensure your baking experience is a success. With these suggestions, you’ll create the best cookies possible!
- Storage: Cookies will keep airtight at room temperature for five to seven days. For longer freshness, store in the freezer for three to four months.
- Freezing: If you want to freeze unbaked cookie dough balls, they can also keep for three to four months. Simply bake off as many as desired at a future date; no need to thaw.
- Glaze Consistency: Make sure your butter is well softened to achieve a smooth glaze.
- Size Matters: Feel free to adjust the size of your cookie dough mounds if you prefer smaller or larger cookies.
- Oven Variability: Every oven behaves differently, so start checking on your cookies a minute or two before the minimum bake time.
- Chilling Importance: Chilling the dough allows the flavors to develop and enhances the texture of your cookies.
How to Serve Honey Bun Cookies
Serving your freshly baked Honey Bun Cookies can be just as delightful as making them. Here are some wonderful ways to enjoy these sweet treats:
- With Coffee or Tea: The sweet, buttery flavor pairs perfectly with a warm cup of coffee or tea. It’s a lovely way to start your day or enjoy an afternoon break.
- At Gatherings: These cookies are a fantastic choice for parties and gatherings. They’re a sure hit, bringing smiles and satisfaction.
- For Dessert: Enjoy them as a dessert after dinner or on special occasions. Their unique flavor and texture are perfect for impressing guests.
- Seasonal Treat: Consider making these cookies during the fall or winter months to celebrate the season with warm flavors.
- Storage Tips: After baking, store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness. You can also freeze them for quick enjoyment later!
FAQ
Conclusion
The Honey Bun Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the soft, chewy texture of cookies with a sweet glaze reminiscent of classic honey buns. They’re perfect for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating a special event or just enjoying a quiet evening at home. I encourage you to give these cookies a try; they’re sure to become a favorite in your home too!
Honey Bun Cookies
Equipment
- Grater
- Mixing Bowl
- Baking Sheet
- Chef's Knife
- Whisk
- Oven
- Food Processor
Ingredients
- 1 cup Butter softened
- ¾ cup Sugar
- ½ cup Brown Sugar packed
- 2 Eggs room temp
- 1 tablespoon Vanilla Extract or to taste
- 2¾ cups Flour
- 2 teaspoons Cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon Baking Powder
- ½ teaspoon Baking Soda
- 2 teaspoons Cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon Kosher Salt
- ¼ cup Butter softened
- 1 cup Confectioners’ Sugar sift if lumpy
- 2 tablespoons Honey
- 2 tablespoons Milk 2%, whole, or your favorite
Instructions
- Start by taking your butter and letting it soften at room temperature. This is crucial for achieving that light and fluffy texture. In a mixing bowl, add the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Using a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the mixture together on medium-high speed for about four minutes. You’re looking for it to become light and fluffy, which will help create a wonderful base for your cookies.
- Next, incorporate the eggs and vanilla extract. Beat them in until they are well combined, making sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure even mixing. This will take about two minutes. Setting this aside for now allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- In a separate large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients. Combine the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and kosher salt. Mixing these ingredients thoroughly ensures that the leavening agents and spices are evenly distributed throughout your dough.
- With the mixer running on low, slowly add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. This gradual process helps prevent any flour from flying everywhere and ensures a smooth dough without overmixing, which can toughen your cookies.
- Prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This step will prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup easier. Using a large cookie scoop, portion out the dough into evenly sized mounds—about three tablespoons each. These cookies are meant to be big and beautiful, just like the ones served at bakeries.
- After shaping the dough, gently press each mound down until they’re about a quarter-inch tall. This not only helps them bake evenly but also creates the perfect surface for adding the signature swirl.
- Now comes the fun part! Using the back of a dinner knife or a chopstick, create a spiral swirl starting from the center of each cookie and working your way outwards. This design is what makes the Honey Bun Cookies so appealing. If you need guidance, there are process photos available on the blog.
- Time to chill! Place the baking sheets in the freezer for about ten minutes or pop them in the refrigerator for forty-five to sixty minutes. This chilling step is essential—it helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking. If space is tight, transfer the dough to a plate; it’s okay if the mounds touch.
- While the cookies are chilling, preheat your oven to 350°F. This ensures that the cookies are greeted with the perfect heat level as soon as they hit the oven.
- Once chilled, bake your cookies for about thirteen to fifteen minutes. Keep an eye on them; the edges should just start to turn lightly golden brown. They may look underdone when you take them out, but they'll continue to cook on the baking sheet, firming up as they cool.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about ten minutes before transferring them to wire racks. This step is crucial to prevent them from breaking apart. And while they cool, resist the urge to glaze warm cookies; it’ll just slide right off!
- For the glaze, in a separate mixing bowl, combine the ingredients: softened butter, confectioners’ sugar, honey, and milk. Whisk until smooth. It’s important to have the butter softened well for an easier mixing process.
- Using a pastry brush, evenly brush the glaze over the top of each cookie. Allow the glaze to set before you dive into these sweet creations.
Notes
- Storage: Cookies will keep airtight at room temperature for five to seven days. For longer freshness, store in the freezer for three to four months.
- Freezing: If you want to freeze unbaked cookie dough balls, they can also keep for three to four months. Simply bake off as many as desired at a future date; no need to thaw.
