Soft, sweet, and covered in a sticky glaze—honeybuns are a beloved treat enjoyed by many. Whether you grab one from a convenience store or savor a homemade version fresh from the oven, these golden, spiral-shaped pastries have been a go-to indulgence for decades. But have you ever wondered what a honeybun is actually made of?
From the rich, fluffy dough to the signature honey-infused glaze, every ingredient plays a role in creating that irresistible flavor and texture. In this post, we’ll take a deep dive into the ingredients that make up a classic honeybun, explore how they’re made, and even share a simple recipe so you can bake your own at home.
Ready to uncover the secrets of this delicious pastry? Let’s get started!
What Exactly Is a Honeybun? A Quick Overview
A honeybun is a soft, sweet, and sticky pastry often enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack. It is typically made from yeast-leavened dough, giving it a light and fluffy texture, and is shaped into a spiral before being baked or fried. Once cooked, the honeybun is coated with a sweet glaze, often infused with honey or vanilla, creating its signature sticky and shiny finish.
This pastry is commonly found in convenience stores, bakeries, and even gas stations, making it a popular on-the-go treat. While many enjoy store-bought versions from brands like Little Debbie, Hostess, and Mrs. Freshley’s, homemade honeybuns offer a fresher and more customizable alternative.
The Origin of Honeybuns
The exact origins of the honeybun are debated, but it is believed to have evolved from traditional European sweet rolls, such as cinnamon rolls and Danish pastries. Over time, the honeybun became a Southern bakery staple, particularly in the United States, where it is widely consumed as a breakfast treat or dessert.
In the mid-20th century, packaged honeybuns gained popularity, with brands like Little Debbie and Hostess mass-producing them for convenience. Today, these pastries are enjoyed worldwide, with some variations incorporating cinnamon, nuts, or even chocolate drizzle for added flavor.
How Honeybuns Differ from Other Pastries
Honeybuns are often mistaken for other sweet, spiral-shaped pastries, but they have some key differences:
- Honeybuns vs. Cinnamon Rolls: While both are sweet, coiled pastries, cinnamon rolls have a more prominent spiced filling and are typically topped with a cream cheese or sugar glaze, whereas honeybuns have a lighter honey glaze with a more subtle sweetness.
- Honeybuns vs. Sticky Buns: Sticky buns are baked in a caramelized sugar and nut topping, giving them a richer, gooier texture. Honeybuns, on the other hand, are coated in a thin glaze rather than a thick syrup.
- Honeybuns vs. Donuts: While some honeybuns are deep-fried, they are generally denser than traditional yeast donuts, which are more airy and often have a more neutral dough flavor.
These differences make honeybuns a unique pastry with a distinct texture and taste that sets them apart from similar baked goods.
Store-Bought vs. Homemade Honeybuns
Many people recognize honeybuns from popular brands like Little Debbie, Hostess, and Mrs. Freshley’s, which are mass-produced for long shelf life and convenience. These packaged versions often contain preservatives, artificial flavors, and high-fructose corn syrup, making them a quick but less wholesome option.
On the other hand, homemade honeybuns allow for better ingredient control, fresher taste, and fewer additives. Making them from scratch lets you customize the sweetness level, type of glaze, and dough texture, resulting in a pastry that’s often softer and more flavorful than store-bought varieties.
Whether you prefer a quick grab-and-go honeybun or a warm, homemade version, this classic treat remains a favorite for pastry lovers everywhere!
Key Ingredients in a Honeybun
Honeybuns may seem simple at first glance, but their soft, sweet, and sticky texture comes from a carefully balanced combination of ingredients. The dough must be tender yet sturdy enough to hold its shape, while the glaze provides the signature shiny and sticky finish. Let’s break down the essential components that make a honeybun so irresistible.
The Dough – What Goes Into It?
At the heart of every honeybun is a rich, yeasted dough that gives it its soft, slightly chewy texture. The key ingredients in the dough include:
- Flour – The base of the dough, typically all-purpose flour or bread flour, provides the necessary structure. Bread flour, which has more protein, helps create a slightly chewier texture.
- Yeast – Honeybuns use active dry yeast or instant yeast to create lightness and volume through fermentation. This is what makes them rise and develop a fluffy, tender crumb.
- Milk or Water – Adding milk instead of water makes the dough richer and softer due to its fat content. Some recipes use buttermilk for extra flavor and tenderness.
- Eggs – Eggs enrich the dough, giving it a softer, more delicate texture. They also help with browning during baking.
- Butter or Oil – Fat is crucial for moisture, flavor, and tenderness. Butter gives honeybuns a rich taste, while some recipes use vegetable oil for a softer texture.
- Sugar – A mix of granulated sugar and sometimes brown sugar sweetens the dough and helps with caramelization.
- Salt – A small but essential ingredient that enhances flavor and balances the sweetness.
The dough is kneaded and left to rise, allowing the yeast to work its magic and develop flavor and structure.
The Signature Honey Glaze
One of the defining features of a honeybun is its sweet, sticky glaze that gives it a shiny and slightly crunchy exterior. The glaze is typically made of:
- Honey – The star ingredient, honey provides a natural sweetness and gives the honeybun its characteristic flavor.
- Powdered Sugar – This creates a smooth glaze that sets perfectly on top of the pastry.
- Milk or Cream – Adds creaminess and helps dissolve the sugar for a pourable consistency.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the sweetness and adds depth of flavor.
- Butter (optional) – Some recipes include melted butter in the glaze for an extra rich, silky finish.
The glaze is usually poured over the warm honeybuns, allowing it to soak into the pastry and create that signature sticky texture.
Additional Flavors and Variations
While a classic honeybun sticks to the basic ingredients above, there are many variations to enhance the flavor:
- Cinnamon & Spices – Some honeybuns include cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice in the dough for extra warmth and aroma.
- Brown Sugar Filling – A layer of brown sugar and cinnamon filling is sometimes spread inside before rolling the dough, making it closer to a cinnamon roll.
- Chocolate Drizzle – Some honeybuns are topped with a chocolate glaze or drizzle for a richer taste.
- Nuts & Raisins – Chopped pecans or walnuts can be added to the dough or sprinkled on top of the glaze.
- Deep-Fried Honeybuns – Instead of baking, some versions are deep-fried, creating a crispier, more indulgent texture similar to a donut.
By tweaking these ingredients, you can create different styles of honeybuns, from classic bakery-style honeybuns to gourmet versions with unique flavors!
How Are Honeybuns Made? Step-by-Step Process
Making honeybuns from scratch is a rewarding process that involves creating a soft, sweet yeast dough, shaping it into spirals, and finishing it with a signature sticky glaze. Whether you bake them for a homemade treat or want to replicate the classic store-bought version, this step-by-step guide will help you achieve the perfect honeybun.
Step 1: Preparing the Dough
A light and fluffy dough is the foundation of a great honeybun. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients for the Dough:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour for a chewier texture)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (one packet)
- ½ cup warm milk (about 110°F, to activate the yeast)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions:
- Activate the Yeast – In a bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes foamy, which means the yeast is active.
- Mix the Dough – In a large bowl, combine the yeast mixture with melted butter, egg, salt, and flour. Stir until a sticky dough forms.
- Knead the Dough – Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook.
- Let It Rise – Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
Step 2: Shaping the Honeybuns
Once the dough has risen, it’s time to shape the buns into their signature swirled form.
Instructions:
- Roll Out the Dough – Lightly flour a surface and roll out the dough into a rectangle, about ¼ inch thick.
- Cut and Shape – Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the dough into long strips (about 1 inch wide). Roll each strip into a spiral or coil shape.
- Second Rise – Place the shaped honeybuns onto a lined baking sheet, spacing them apart. Cover them with a towel and let them rise again for 30–45 minutes until puffy.
Step 3: Baking or Frying the Honeybuns
There are two popular ways to cook honeybuns: baking or deep-frying. Each method gives a slightly different texture.
Option 1: Baking (Lighter & Fluffier)
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Brush the tops of the buns with melted butter to help with browning.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until they turn golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before glazing.
Option 2: Frying (Crispy & Richer Taste)
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully drop each honeybun into the hot oil, frying for 1–2 minutes per side, until golden brown.
- Remove and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
- Let them cool slightly before adding the glaze.
Step4: Preparing the Honey Glaze
The sweet, sticky glaze is what gives honeybuns their signature shine and flavor.
Ingredients for the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons milk (or water for a lighter glaze)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- In a bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, honey, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk (for a thinner glaze) or more sugar (for a thicker glaze).
- While the honeybuns are still slightly warm, dip or drizzle them with the glaze. The warmth helps the glaze soak in, giving them their iconic sticky coating.
- Let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving.
Step 5: Serving & Enjoying
Freshly made honeybuns are best enjoyed warm, when they’re soft, sweet, and perfectly glazed. You can serve them as they are or pair them with:
- A cup of coffee or tea for a delicious breakfast or snack.
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
- A sprinkle of cinnamon or nuts for extra flavor and crunch.
Honeybuns can also be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week. Warm them up in the microwave for 10–15 seconds before eating to bring back their soft texture.
Nutritional Facts and Are Honeybuns Healthy?
Honeybuns are a sweet, indulgent treat, but like most pastries, they come with a mix of nutrients that may or may not fit into a balanced diet. Let’s take a closer look at their nutritional breakdown, common concerns, and whether you can enjoy them in a healthier way.
Nutritional Breakdown of a Honeybun
The exact nutritional values of a honeybun vary based on size, brand, and preparation method (baked vs. fried). However, here’s a general estimate for one standard store-bought honeybun (about 85g):
| Nutrient | Amount (per 85g honeybun) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 300–450 kcal |
| Total Fat | 15–22g |
| Saturated Fat | 5–7g |
| Cholesterol | 10–20mg |
| Carbohydrates | 45–55g |
| Sugar | 20–30g |
| Protein | 4–6g |
| Fiber | 1–2g |
| Sodium | 200–400mg |
Key Takeaways from the Nutrition Table:
- High in Calories – A single honeybun can contain between 300–450 calories, making it a calorically dense food.
- High in Sugar – With 20–30g of sugar, honeybuns can contribute to spikes in blood sugar levels.
- High in Fats, Especially Saturated Fats – Store-bought and fried honeybuns can have up to 22g of fat, including saturated fats, which should be consumed in moderation.
- Low in Protein and Fiber – Despite containing flour, honeybuns offer minimal protein and fiber, making them less filling.
Are Honeybuns Healthy?
The short answer: Honeybuns are not the healthiest food choice, especially when eaten frequently. They are considered an ultra-processed food that is high in refined carbohydrates, added sugars, and unhealthy fats. However, this doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy them in moderation! Let’s break down the health considerations:
1. High in Sugar and Carbohydrates
- The combination of refined flour and sugar in honeybuns causes a rapid spike in blood sugar.
- This can lead to an energy crash, cravings, and potential weight gain if consumed frequently.
- Regular high sugar intake has been linked to increased risks of diabetes, obesity, and heart disease.
Tip: If you want a healthier version, opt for a homemade honeybun with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup instead of processed sugars.
2. High in Unhealthy Fats
- Store-bought and deep-fried honeybuns often contain trans fats and saturated fats, which can increase cholesterol levels and raise the risk of heart disease.
- Many commercial honeybuns contain hydrogenated oils, which should be avoided for better heart health.
Tip: If you’re making honeybuns at home, baking instead of frying can drastically reduce fat content while still giving you a delicious treat.
3. Low in Essential Nutrients
- Honeybuns lack fiber, vitamins, and minerals, meaning they don’t provide much nutritional value.
- Without protein or fiber, they won’t keep you full for long, which can lead to overeating.
Tip: Pairing a honeybun with a protein source (like Greek yogurt or a handful of nuts) can help balance the meal and reduce blood sugar spikes.
Can You Make Honeybuns Healthier?
If you love honeybuns but want to make them a bit healthier, here are some simple swaps and modifications:
Use Whole Wheat Flour – Adding whole wheat flour instead of white flour can increase fiber and make honeybuns more filling.
Reduce Sugar – Cut back on sugar or use natural sweeteners like honey or coconut sugar to lower the glycemic impact.
Bake Instead of Frying – Baking honeybuns instead of deep-frying reduces fat content while keeping them delicious.
Add Protein and Fiber – Mixing protein powder or flaxseed into the dough can increase nutritional value.
Use Healthier Oils – Instead of hydrogenated oils, opt for olive oil, avocado oil, or coconut oil for a better fat profile.
Best Honeybun Brands and Where to Buy Them
Honeybuns are a classic sweet treat found in bakeries, grocery stores, and convenience shops worldwide. Whether you prefer the flaky, sticky, and gooey honeybuns from big-name brands or the homemade, bakery-style ones, there are plenty of options to satisfy your craving.
In this section, we’ll explore some of the most popular honeybun brands, their unique features, and where you can buy them—whether in-store or online.
Top Honeybun Brands to Try
From store-bought classics to artisanal bakery options, here are some of the best honeybun brands available today:
1. Little Debbie Honey Buns (Best for Classic Sweetness & Convenience)
Why It’s Popular:
- Soft and chewy texture with a deliciously sweet honey glaze.
- Available in both regular and iced versions, depending on how sweet you like it.
- Affordable and widely available in grocery stores and gas stations.
Where to Buy:
- Walmart, Target, Kroger, and local grocery stores
- Convenience stores (7-Eleven, Circle K, gas stations, etc.)
- Online: Amazon, Walmart.com, Instacart
2. Hostess Glazed Honey Buns (Best for a Rich, Buttery Flavor)
Why It’s Popular:
- Famous for its rich, buttery flavor and flaky texture.
- Thick honey glaze that melts in your mouth.
- Available in single-serve packs or multipacks for easy snacking.
Where to Buy:
- Major grocery chains like Publix, Safeway, Meijer, and Costco
- Dollar stores and convenience stores
- Online: Amazon, Walmart.com, Instacart, Target.com
3. Tastykake Honey Buns (Best for a Bakery-Style Taste)
Why It’s Popular:
- Known for its light, fluffy dough with a rich honey flavor.
- Offers both glazed and iced versions for different levels of sweetness.
- Best when warmed up—Tastykake honeybuns are famous for being extra soft when microwaved.
Where to Buy:
- East Coast grocery stores (Giant, Acme, Weis, etc.)
- Online retailers: Amazon, Walmart.com, and Tastykake’s official website
- Select convenience stores
4. Duchess Honey Buns (Best for Budget-Friendly Treats)
Why It’s Popular:
- One of the most affordable honeybuns on the market.
- Has a soft texture and mild honey flavor that isn’t overpowering.
- Found in gas stations and dollar stores at an incredibly low price.
Where to Buy:
- Dollar General, Family Dollar, and discount grocery stores
- Gas stations and truck stops (Pilot, Loves, etc.)
- Online retailers like Walmart.com and Amazon
5. Mrs. Freshley’s Honey Buns (Best for a Soft, Moist Texture)
Why It’s Popular:
- Very soft and moist compared to other store-bought brands.
- Thicker honey glaze that adds extra sweetness.
- Great for microwaving—becomes warm, gooey, and extra indulgent.
Where to Buy:
- Walmart, Dollar Tree, and other grocery stores
- Gas stations and convenience stores
- Online: Amazon, Walmart.com
Where to Buy the Best Honeybuns Online
If you’re looking for fresh honeybuns without leaving your home, several online retailers sell them in bulk or single packs:
Amazon – Great for buying multi-packs of branded honeybuns like Hostess, Little Debbie, and Tastykake.
Walmart.com – Offers individual and bulk options of multiple brands with delivery or pickup.
Instacart – Allows you to order from local grocery stores for same-day delivery.
Goldbelly – If you’re looking for gourmet or bakery-style honeybuns, Goldbelly offers shipping from top bakeries across the U.S.
Brand Websites – Some brands, like Tastykake and Mrs. Freshley’s, allow direct online orders.
What’s the Best Honeybun for You?
The best honeybun depends on your preference:
- For a classic, sweet honeybun → Little Debbie or Hostess
- For a bakery-style experience → Tastykake or Goldbelly options
- For a budget-friendly snack → Duchess or Mrs. Freshley’s
- For a rich, buttery flavor → Hostess
No matter which you choose, warming up a honeybun in the microwave for 10-15 seconds will enhance its softness and flavor—making it even more delicious!
Chef’s Note: The Sweet Appeal of Honeybuns
Honeybuns are more than just a quick snack—they’re a comforting, nostalgic treat loved by many. Whether you enjoy them fresh from the bakery, straight from a package, or warmed up to gooey perfection, their soft texture, rich honey flavor, and delicate glaze make them irresistible.
While store-bought brands offer convenience and affordability, homemade or bakery-style honeybuns bring a special touch with their flaky layers and fresh ingredients. No matter which you choose, a warm honeybun with a cup of coffee or milk is always a winning combination.
So go ahead—indulge in your favorite honeybun, explore new brands, or even try making your own! After all, the best treats are the ones that bring joy with every bite. 😊🍯🥐