If you love the rich, cinnamon-swirled goodness of a honey bun cake and the fruity sweetness of strawberries, this Strawberry Honey Bun Cake is a must-try! Made with a simple strawberry cake mix and a delicious brown sugar-cinnamon filling, this easy dessert is topped with a luscious strawberry glaze for the perfect balance of flavor. Whether you’re baking for a party, a family gathering, or just a sweet treat for yourself, this cake is sure to impress. 🍰💕
Want to know the secret to its soft, moist texture and perfect layers? Keep reading!
🛒 Ingredients for Strawberry Honey Bun Cake
For the Cake:
- 1 box strawberry cake mix (15.25 oz)
- 4 large eggs
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 2/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
For the Icing:
- 2 cups confectioners’ sugar (powdered sugar)
- 1/4 cup milk (whole milk recommended)
- 1 tsp strawberry extract
- A few drops of red food coloring (optional, for a vibrant pink glaze)
Possible Substitutions & Additions:
- ✔️ Swap the strawberry cake mix with vanilla or white cake mix for a milder flavor.
- ✔️ Use vanilla extract instead of strawberry extract for a classic icing.
- ✔️ Add fresh chopped strawberries for extra bursts of fruitiness.
- ✔️ Drizzle with white chocolate for an even sweeter topping!
🍰 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. This ensures your cake doesn’t stick!
Step 2: Make the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, softened cream cheese, eggs, and vegetable oil. Stir until smooth and well incorporated.
Step 3: Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl
In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and ground cinnamon together. This will create the sweet, swirled filling inside your cake.
Step 4: Layer the Cake
- Pour half of the cake batter into your greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle the brown sugar-cinnamon mixture evenly over the batter.
- Pour the remaining cake batter on top, spreading it gently to cover the cinnamon layer.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Make the Strawberry Glaze
While the cake is baking, mix the powdered sugar, milk, and strawberry extract in a bowl until smooth. Add a few drops of red food coloring if you want a bright pink icing.
Step 7: Ice the Cake
Once the cake is done, let it cool for about 10 minutes before drizzling the glaze over the warm cake. This allows it to soak in slightly for extra moisture!
Now that your cake is beautifully baked and glazed, let’s talk storage, reheating, and pro tips to keep it fresh and delicious!
🥡 Storage, Reheating & Pro Tips
How to Store Your Cake
- Refrigerator: Cover the cake with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for 3-4 days in the fridge.
- Freezer: Want to save it for later? Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating Instructions
- Microwave: Heat a slice for 15-20 seconds for a soft, fresh-from-the-oven texture.
- Oven: Warm in a preheated 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-7 minutes to keep it moist.
Pro Tips for the Best Cake Ever!
- ✔️ Use room temperature ingredients – This helps the batter mix smoothly for a soft, even texture.
- ✔️ Let the cake cool before icing – This prevents the glaze from melting too much and running off.
- ✔️ Don’t overmix the batter – Mix just until combined to keep your cake light and fluffy.
- ✔️ Use an offset spatula – It makes spreading the batter easier, especially when layering.
- ✔️ Garnish with fresh strawberries – A pop of fresh fruit makes it even more irresistible! 🍓
🥄 Nutritional Information & Serving Suggestions
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
(Approximate values for 1 slice based on 12 servings)
- Calories: 504 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 70g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 74mg
- Sodium: 343mg
- Sugar: 57g
- Calcium: 122mg
Best Ways to Serve This Cake
🍓 Top with fresh strawberries for extra flavor and texture.
🍦 Pair with vanilla ice cream for a creamy, indulgent treat.
☕ Enjoy with coffee or tea for the perfect afternoon snack.
🍫 Drizzle with chocolate sauce for a fun twist!
🍓 Strawberry Honey Bun Cake
Equipment
- Mixing bowls (large & small)
- Electric mixer or whisk
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Spatula
- Wire rack (for cooling)
Ingredients
- For the Cake:
- 1 box strawberry cake mix 15.25 oz
- 4 large eggs
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 2/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- For the Icing:
- 2 cups confectioners’ sugar powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup milk whole milk recommended
- 1 tsp strawberry extract
- A few drops of red food coloring optional, for a vibrant pink glaze
Instructions
- Step 1: Prep the Oven & Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray.
- Step 2: Make the Batter
- In a large bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, softened cream cheese, eggs, and vegetable oil.
- Mix until smooth and fully incorporated.
- Step 3: Create the Cinnamon Swirl
- In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and ground cinnamon together.
- Step 4: Assemble the Cake
- Pour half of the cake batter into the greased baking dish.
- Evenly sprinkle the brown sugar-cinnamon mixture over the batter.
- Pour the remaining cake batter over the cinnamon layer, spreading gently.
- Step 5: Bake the Cake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool for about 10 minutes before adding the glaze.
- Step 6: Make the Strawberry Glaze
- In a bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and strawberry extract until smooth.
- Add a few drops of red food coloring if desired.
- Step 7: Glaze & Serve
- Pour the icing over the warm cake, allowing it to slightly soak in.
- Let the cake cool completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
✔️ Don’t overmix—stir just until combined to keep the cake light.
✔️ Let the cake cool slightly before icing to avoid a runny glaze.
✔️ Want extra strawberry flavor? Add fresh chopped strawberries into the batter!
✔️ For a thicker icing, reduce the milk slightly.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use a different cake mix for this recipe?
Absolutely! While strawberry cake mix adds a fruity flavor, you can substitute it with vanilla, white, or even butter cake mix for a milder taste. If you still want the strawberry flavor, consider adding strawberry extract or finely chopped fresh strawberries to the batter.
2. How do I prevent my cake from being too dense?
To keep your cake light and fluffy, make sure you don’t overmix the batter—stir just until combined. Also, using room temperature eggs and cream cheese ensures a smoother, airier consistency.
3. Can I make this cake in advance?
Yes! You can bake this cake a day ahead and store it at room temperature, covered tightly. If you need to keep it longer, refrigerate it and warm it slightly before serving to bring back its soft texture.
4. What’s the best way to frost this cake?
For the best results, let the cake cool slightly before drizzling the glaze. If you want a thicker icing, use less milk. For a thinner glaze that soaks into the cake, add an extra tablespoon of milk at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
5. Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?
Yes! You can mix in chopped pecans, walnuts, or even white chocolate chips to add extra texture and flavor. If using nuts, toast them slightly before adding to enhance their taste.
6. How do I make this cake even more decadent?
- If you want to take this cake to the next level, try:
- ✔️ Adding a cream cheese filling: Mix softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and spread a layer before adding the cinnamon sugar.
- ✔️ Drizzling with white or dark chocolate for a gourmet touch.
- ✔️ Topping with whipped cream and fresh strawberries before serving.
7. Can I freeze this cake?
Yes! To freeze, wrap slices individually in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight freezer bag. They will last up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw at room temperature or warm slightly in the microwave for 15-20 seconds.
8. What should I serve with this cake?
This cake pairs perfectly with:
🍦 Vanilla ice cream for a creamy, cold contrast.
☕ Hot coffee or tea for a cozy treat.
🍓 Fresh strawberries for extra freshness.
🥛 A glass of milk to balance the sweetness.
9. How do I make a larger batch?
Simply double the recipe and bake in a larger pan (like 11×15-inch). Keep an eye on the baking time—you may need to add 5-10 extra minutes to ensure it’s fully cooked.
10. Can I make this recipe into cupcakes?
Yes! Divide the batter evenly into lined cupcake tins, filling them about 2/3 full. Reduce the baking time to 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
🎉 Final Thoughts & Expert Tips
If you’re looking for an easy yet impressive dessert, this Strawberry Honey Bun Cake is a must-try! With its soft, moist texture, cinnamon-sugar swirl, and sweet strawberry glaze, it’s a treat that’s perfect for birthdays, holidays, potlucks, or just a weekend indulgence.
Final Pro Tips for the Perfect Cake:
- ✔️ Let the cake rest before slicing – This allows the glaze to fully set, creating the perfect balance of flavors.
- ✔️ Experiment with flavors – Try adding a hint of lemon zest or swapping the strawberry extract for almond extract for a unique twist.
- ✔️ Make it extra indulgent – Serve with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a scoop of strawberry ice cream for the ultimate dessert experience.
- ✔️ Use high-quality ingredients – A good cake mix and fresh eggs make all the difference in achieving the best flavor and texture.
Now It’s Your Turn! 🍰
If you make this Strawberry Honey Bun Cake, let us know how it turns out! 💕 Leave a comment, rate the recipe, and share your delicious creation with friends and family.
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Happy baking! 🎂🥄💕
