If you love the classic flavor of honey buns, then these Honey Bun Cookies are going to be a new favorite! These cookies are soft, sweet, and packed with cinnamon and vanilla flavor, just like a honey bun. To make them even better, they’re finished with a light glaze that adds just the right amount of sweetness. They’re easy to make and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday gathering or just a sweet treat to share with friends and family. Let’s get into this delicious recipe!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients for Honey Bun Cookies
- Instructions for Honey Bun Cookies
- Baking Tips & Notes
- Recipe Variations & Substitutions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients for Honey Bun Cookies
For the Cookies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions for Honey Bun Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and light brown sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the honey, egg, and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 4: Scoop the Dough
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, scoop the dough and roll it into balls. Place them onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing each cookie about 2 inches apart.
Step 5: Bake the Cookies
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are still soft.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Make the Glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies and let it set before serving.
Baking Tips & Notes
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and egg are at room temperature for a smooth, even cookie dough.
- Don’t Overbake: The cookies should be slightly soft in the center when you take them out of the oven—they will continue to firm up as they cool.
- Drizzle or Dip: You can either drizzle the glaze over the cookies or dip the tops directly into the glaze for a thicker layer.
Recipe Variations & Substitutions
- Maple Honey Bun Cookies: Substitute honey with maple syrup for a different, yet equally delicious flavor.
- Pecan Topping: Press a few chopped pecans onto the tops of the cookies before baking for a nutty crunch.
- Spiced Glaze: Add 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the glaze for an extra layer of warm spice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How do I store Honey Bun Cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months—thaw at room temperature before serving.
2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough ahead and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking. Let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes if it becomes too firm to scoop.
3. Can I use dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar?
Yes, you can use dark brown sugar for a deeper, more molasses-like flavor. The cookies will be slightly richer in taste.
4. How do I prevent the glaze from being too runny?
If the glaze is too thin, add more powdered sugar until you reach the desired consistency. If it’s too thick, add a small amount of milk.
These Honey Bun Cookies are a delightful blend of cinnamon, honey, and brown sugar that makes for a truly comforting treat. The soft, tender texture and sweet glaze make them perfect for any occasion, and they taste just like a classic honey bun in cookie form! Whether you’re making them for a gathering or just to have a sweet snack at home, these cookies are sure to be a hit. Give them a try, and enjoy every bite!
Happy baking, and enjoy these sweet, spiced treats!
