Indulge in this Strawberry Honeybun Cake, a moist and tender dessert featuring a luscious cinnamon-honey swirl and topped with a smooth strawberry cream icing. This easy-to-make cake combines the rich flavors of cinnamon and brown sugar with the bright freshness of strawberry jam and puree—perfect for family gatherings, celebrations, or a sweet everyday treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Simple preparation with a boxed cake mix and easy ingredients
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Sweet cinnamon and honey swirl adds irresistible flavor
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Moist texture with the tang of sour cream for richness
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Fresh strawberry cream icing enhances every bite
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Perfect for dessert, potlucks, or afternoon tea
Ingredients Breakdown
Cake:
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1 box yellow cake mix – Convenient base that delivers a tender crumb.
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¾ cup vegetable oil – Keeps the cake moist and rich.
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4 large eggs – Add structure and richness.
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1 cup sour cream – Adds moisture and a slight tang for balance.
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½ cup brown sugar – Sweetens and adds a caramel-like depth.
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1 tbsp cinnamon – Provides warm, aromatic spice.
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½ cup strawberry jam – Adds fruity sweetness and moisture for the swirl.
Strawberry Cream Icing:
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1 cup powdered sugar – The sweet base for the icing.
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2 tbsp strawberry puree – Adds fresh strawberry flavor and color.
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1 tbsp milk (adjust for consistency) – Thins the icing to perfect drizzle texture.
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½ tsp vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor with a sweet aroma.
Tips and Tricks
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Use fresh or thawed strawberries to make the puree for a vibrant, natural strawberry flavor.
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For a more intense cinnamon taste, increase the cinnamon to 1½ tablespoons.
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To avoid over-swelling, avoid overmixing the batter once combined with the cinnamon swirl.
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Allow the cake to cool slightly before icing to prevent the glaze from melting too much.
Variations and Customizations
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Substitute strawberry jam with raspberry or mixed berry preserves for a unique twist.
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Add chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon swirl for extra crunch.
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For a dairy-free version, use a plant-based sour cream alternative and non-dairy milk in the icing.
Pairing Suggestions
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Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
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Pair with hot tea or coffee for an afternoon treat.
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Complement with fresh sliced strawberries or whipped cream on the side.
Storage Instructions
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Store leftover cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days.
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Refrigerate for up to 5 days in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
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Cake can be frozen (without icing) for up to 3 months; thaw completely before icing and serving.
Popular Questions
Q: Can I make this cake from scratch without using a boxed mix?
A: Yes! Use your favorite homemade yellow cake recipe and follow the layering and swirl instructions for similar results.
Q: How do I make strawberry puree?
A: Blend fresh or thawed strawberries in a food processor or blender until smooth. Strain seeds if desired.
Q: Can I double this recipe for a larger cake?
A: Absolutely! Double the ingredients and use a larger pan, adjusting baking time as needed.