Imagine a warm kitchen filled with the sweet smell of strawberries and cinnamon. It’s a moment of culinary magic that makes any day special. Your strawberry honeybun cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a memorable experience.
Picture cutting into a slice of this amazing cake. Each bite is a burst of fruity flavor with a hint of cinnamon. It’s not just about the taste; it’s about making memories that last.
Looking for a special treat or a dessert for a brunch? The strawberry honeybun cake with strawberry cream icing is perfect. It’s ready to become your new favorite indulgence.
Key Takeaways
- Discover a unique twist on classic cake recipes
- Learn how to create a visually stunning dessert
- Understand the perfect balance of strawberry and cinnamon flavors
- Master a versatile recipe suitable for multiple occasions
- Explore simple baking techniques for impressive results
Introduction to Strawberry Honeybun Cake
Get ready to explore a delightful honey cake that turns the classic sweet treat into a fruity baked good. The Strawberry Honeybun Cake combines flavors that will excite your taste buds and wow your guests.
Origin of Honeybun Cakes
Honeybun cakes started as a favorite Southern dessert. They mix the sweetness of honey with a soft, moist cake. These treats became famous for their comforting taste and easy recipe. Over time, bakers have added new twists to the classic recipe.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
- Combines classic honeybun cake with vibrant strawberry flavors
- Perfect balance of sweet and fruity notes
- Incredibly moist and tender texture
- Simple preparation process
- Versatile dessert suitable for multiple occasions
This strawberry version of the honey cake adds a fresh strawberry essence. The cinnamon swirl brings warmth and depth, making it a memorable dessert.
Perfect Occasions for Serving
Your Strawberry Honeybun Cake is perfect for many occasions:
- Weekend brunches
- Family gatherings
- Potluck dessert tables
- Afternoon tea parties
- Casual dinner celebrations
Whether it’s a special event or just a craving for something sweet, this cake will be a hit. It’s sure to have everyone asking for more.
Essential Ingredients for Strawberry Honeybun Cake with Strawberry Cream Icing
Making a strawberry honeybun cake with strawberry cream icing needs top-notch ingredients. This summer treat needs careful picking and mixing for a great taste and feel. It will wow your family and friends.

Base Cake Components
- 1 box (15.25 oz) strawberry cake mix
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup milk
Cinnamon Swirl Ingredients
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1-2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 ounce freeze-dried strawberries (optional)
- 2/3 cup white sugar for filling
Strawberry Buttercream Icing Elements
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup strawberry jam or preserves
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2-3 tablespoons water (for consistency)
For a standout strawberry honeybun cake with strawberry cream icing, choose fresh, quality ingredients. Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature for the best mix and texture. The mix of strawberry cake mix, sour cream, and strawberry jam makes a summer dessert that’s a hit with families.
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
To make a tasty strawberry cake or honey cake, you need the right tools. Before you begin, collect these essential items for a smooth baking process.

Here’s a list of kitchen tools you’ll need for your strawberry honeybun cake:
- 9×13 inch baking pan – The perfect size for this delicious cake
- Large mixing bowls – At least two for separating ingredients
- Electric mixer or stand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Whisk
- Cooling rack
- Parchment paper
When preparing your baking pan, use parchment paper or non-stick spray. This prevents the honey cake from sticking. The 9×13 inch pan is key for the right cake thickness and even baking.
Pro tip: If you don’t have a 9×13 inch pan, a similar-sized dish works too. Just adjust baking times and watch it closely to avoid overcooking.
For the strawberry cream icing, you’ll need:
- Medium mixing bowl
- Hand mixer or whisk
- Offset spatula or knife for spreading
Preparing these tools ahead of time ensures a successful and fun baking experience with your strawberry honeybun cake.
Step-by-Step Baking Instructions
Making the perfect fruity baked good needs care and love. Your Strawberry Honeybun Cake will turn your kitchen into a sweet paradise. Follow these steps to make it happen.
Preparing the Cake Batter
First, get your ingredients ready and heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). A smooth batter is key for a tasty strawberry dessert.
- In a big mixing bowl, mix together vanilla cake mix, 3 large eggs, 1 cup sour cream, and ½ cup vegetable oil
- Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and mix until it’s smooth
- Gently fold in 1 cup of diced strawberries
Creating the Cinnamon Swirl
The cinnamon swirl makes your cake special, adding layers of taste and texture.
- Mix ½ cup brown sugar with 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Sprinkle this mix between the cake batter layers
- Use a knife to make a soft swirling pattern
Baking Process and Timing
Being precise is crucial when baking this sweet treat. Follow these steps for a cake that’s just right.

Baking Detail | Specification |
---|---|
Oven Temperature | 350°F (175°C) |
Baking Time | 30-35 minutes |
Doneness Test | Toothpick comes out clean |
Cooling Time | 10-15 minutes before icing |
After baking, let your cake cool down completely. Then, add the creamy strawberry icing. Pro tip: Patience ensures the perfect texture and flavor!
Making the Perfect Strawberry Cream Icing
Making the ultimate strawberry cream icing takes your Strawberry Honeybun Cake to the next level. It adds a vibrant, luscious topping that brings out the fresh strawberry flavor.
To make the most delicious strawberry buttercream, you’ll need a few key ingredients:
- 1.5 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 4 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Fresh strawberry puree or high-quality strawberry jam
The secret to perfect strawberry cream icing is getting the right consistency. Begin by whisking the confectioners’ sugar until it’s smooth. Gradually add milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. You want a silky, spreadable texture that moves smoothly over the cake.
Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
---|---|---|
Confectioners’ Sugar | 1.5 cups | Provides sweetness and structure |
Milk | 4 tablespoons | Adjusts icing consistency |
Vanilla Extract | 1 teaspoon | Enhances flavor complexity |
Strawberry Puree | 2-3 tablespoons | Adds natural strawberry flavor |
Pro tip: For a more intense strawberry flavor, use fresh strawberry puree instead of jam. This will give your cake a more authentic, vibrant taste.
When you’re applying the icing, make sure your cake is completely cool. Use an offset spatula for smooth, even coverage. The result? A stunning strawberry buttercream that looks as incredible as it tastes!
Storage Tips and Shelf Life
Your strawberry honeybun cake with strawberry cream icing needs the right care. This keeps its taste and texture perfect. Storing it right lets you enjoy every slice for days.
For short-term, keep it at room temperature. Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days. Make sure the container seals well to keep the cake moist.
For longer, refrigerate it. Use a sealed container for up to a week. Let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving. This brings back its softness and flavor.
Freezing is great for longer storage. Wrap slices or the whole cake in plastic wrap, then in a freezer-safe container. It can stay frozen for 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and let it come to room temperature before serving.
FAQ
How long does the Strawberry Honeybun Cake stay fresh?
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Is it possible to make this cake in advance?
Can I freeze the Strawberry Honeybun Cake?
What can I substitute for fresh strawberries in the icing?
How can I tell if the cake is done baking?
Can I make this cake without a stand mixer?
Are there any dairy-free alternatives for this recipe?

Strawberry Honeybun Cake with Strawberry Cream Icing
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Yield: 15 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful cake with a moist vanilla base, swirled with cinnamon and fresh strawberries, topped with a sweet strawberry cream icing.
Ingredients
- For the Cake:
- 1 box (15.25 oz) vanilla cake mix
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 cup diced strawberries (fresh or frozen, thawed and drained)
- For the Strawberry Cream Icing:
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- ½ cup strawberry puree (blend fresh strawberries until smooth)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Prepare the Cake Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, sour cream, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
- In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and ground cinnamon, then set aside.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
- Sprinkle half of the brown sugar-cinnamon mixture over the batter, then evenly distribute the diced strawberries over this layer.
- Pour the remaining cake batter on top, smoothing the surface, and sprinkle the rest of the brown sugar-cinnamon mixture on top.
- Bake the Cake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Prepare the Icing:
- While the cake bakes, make the icing by combining the powdered sugar, milk, strawberry puree, and vanilla extract in a bowl. Mix until smooth, adjusting the consistency with a little more milk if needed.
- Ice the Cake:
- Once the cake is done baking, let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before drizzling the strawberry cream icing on top. Allow the cake to cool completely before serving.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Slice the cake and enjoy this delicious Strawberry Honeybun Cake with its sweet strawberry icing!
Notes
- You can use fresh or frozen strawberries for this recipe. If using frozen, make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the cake.
- Adjust the consistency of the icing by adding more milk or powdered sugar as needed.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American