Looking for a delicious twist on the classic honeybun cake? This Strawberry Honeybun Cake is a dreamy, moist, and flavorful dessert with swirls of cinnamon, brown sugar, and a rich strawberry cream topping. Perfect for brunch, potlucks, or a sweet treat with your afternoon coffee, this cake will quickly become a family favorite.
With its soft, tender crumb, bursts of strawberry flavor, and the signature honeybun-style glaze, this cake offers the perfect balance of sweetness and warmth. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this easy-to-follow recipe will guide you to a show-stopping dessert.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Moist and Flavorful – A tender cake with cinnamon swirls and sweet strawberry goodness.
- Easy to Make – Uses simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or a snack.
- Strawberry Lovers’ Dream – Packed with real strawberry flavor in every bite.
- Customizable – Add nuts, chocolate chips, or a drizzle of honey for extra decadence.
Table of Contents
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cake:
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup strawberry preserves
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
For the Strawberry Cream Topping:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup strawberry puree (fresh or frozen, blended)
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh strawberries, sliced
- Whipped cream
- Drizzle of honey
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease and dust a 9×13-inch baking dish with flour to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, vegetable oil, eggs, sour cream, milk, strawberry preserves, and vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer or whisk until the batter is smooth and well blended.
Step 3: Create the Cinnamon Swirl
Combine the brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl, stirring well. Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the batter. Pour the remaining batter on top, gently swirling with a knife to create a marbled effect.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool for about 15 minutes before adding the strawberry cream topping.
Step 5: Prepare the Strawberry Cream Topping
While the cake cools, whisk together the powdered sugar, strawberry puree, heavy cream, and vanilla extract in a small bowl. Stir until smooth. If needed, add more cream for a thinner consistency.
Step 6: Glaze and Serve
Pour the strawberry cream over the slightly warm cake, spreading it evenly. Let the cake sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the topping to set before slicing.
Tips for the Best Strawberry Honeybun Cake
- Use fresh strawberries – For the best flavor, blend fresh strawberries into a puree.
- Don’t overmix – Mix the batter until just combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.
- Enhance the cinnamon swirl – Add a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth.
- Make it ahead – This cake stays moist for days, making it perfect for meal prep.
- Store correctly – Place leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for up to a week.
Variations to Try
Chocolate Strawberry Honeybun Cake
- Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a chocolate-strawberry combo.
Nutty Delight
- Mix in 1/4 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
Cream Cheese Swirl
- Swirl in 1/2 cup of softened cream cheese for a richer texture.
Gluten-Free Version
- Use a gluten-free cake mix for a delicious gluten-free alternative.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 |
| Protein | 4g |
| Carbs | 38g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Sugar | 25g |
Nutritional values are estimated and may vary depending on the ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of preserves?
Yes! Blend 1/2 cup of fresh strawberries with 2 tablespoons of sugar to create a natural strawberry puree to use in the batter.
How do I store the cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
Can I freeze Strawberry Honeybun Cake?
Yes! Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to two months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Can I use a homemade cake mix?
Absolutely! Use a mixture of 2 cups flour, 1 1/2 cups sugar, 1 tablespoon baking powder, and a pinch of salt as a substitute for store-bought cake mix.
Can I make cupcakes instead of baking this as a sheet cake?
Yes! Pour the batter into a lined muffin tin and bake at 350°F for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.