This Strawberry Honeybun Cake is a soft, moist cake swirled with a sweet strawberry filling and topped with a luscious strawberry glaze. Inspired by the classic honeybun cake, this version combines the flavors of fresh strawberries, cinnamon, and vanilla for a dessert that’s perfect for birthdays, potlucks, brunches, or anytime you’re craving something sweet.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Soft, tender, and incredibly moist
- Beautiful strawberry swirl in every slice
- Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients
- Perfect for spring and summer gatherings
- Delicious served warm or chilled
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Bake Time: 40–45 minutes
- Cooling Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: About 1 hour 25 minutes
- Servings: 12–15 slices
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For the Strawberry Swirl
- 1½ cups strawberry preserves
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon strawberry extract (optional, for extra flavor)
For the Strawberry Glaze
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 3–4 tablespoons strawberry puree or strawberry jam
- 2 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Fresh strawberries, finely chopped (optional garnish)
Kitchen Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Butter knife or skewer
- Cooling rack
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Make the Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
In another bowl, combine the melted butter, eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined. Do not overmix.
Step 3: Prepare the Strawberry Swirl
In a small bowl, stir together the strawberry preserves, cinnamon, and strawberry extract (if using).
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
Spread half of the cake batter into the prepared baking dish.
Dollop the strawberry mixture evenly over the batter.
Use a spoon or offset spatula to gently spread it.
Cover with the remaining batter.
Using a butter knife, gently swirl through the batter to create a marbled effect.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool for about 15–20 minutes.
Step 6: Make the Glaze
Whisk together the powdered sugar, strawberry puree, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
If the glaze is too thick, add a little more milk.
If too thin, add a bit more powdered sugar.
Step 7: Finish the Cake
Pour the glaze over the slightly warm cake, allowing it to spread evenly.
Sprinkle with chopped fresh strawberries if desired.
Let the glaze set for about 10 minutes before slicing.
Tips for Success
- Use room-temperature eggs and sour cream for a smoother batter.
- Don’t overmix the batter to keep the cake light and fluffy.
- High-quality strawberry preserves provide the best flavor.
- Let the cake cool slightly before glazing so the icing doesn’t melt completely.
- Fresh strawberries make a beautiful garnish but should be added just before serving.
Delicious Variations
Cream Cheese Strawberry Honeybun Cake
Add small dollops of sweetened cream cheese between the batter layers.
Lemon Strawberry Version
Mix 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon zest into the batter and a little lemon juice into the glaze.
Chocolate Strawberry Cake
Fold 1 cup of white chocolate chips into the batter.
Berry Mix
Replace part of the strawberry preserves with raspberry or blueberry preserves.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with whipped cream.
- Top with fresh sliced strawberries.
- Pair with vanilla ice cream.
- Enjoy with hot coffee or tea.
- Dust lightly with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.