Strawberry Honeybun Cake with Strawberry Cream Icing Recipe

 If you have a sweet tooth that loves the fruitiness of fresh berries combined with warm, cinnamon-spiced swirls, then you are in for a real treat with this Strawberry Honeybun Cake with Strawberry Cream Icing. It’s a delightful twist on the classic honeybun flavors, enhanced by fresh strawberries and wrapped in a soft, moist cake that tastes like a hug in dessert form. The luscious strawberry cream icing ties everything together with just the right touch of sweetness and creaminess you’ll want to savor bite after bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Strawberry Honeybun Cake with Strawberry Cream Icing comes together beautifully with simple pantry staples plus the lovely addition of fresh strawberries. Each ingredient plays an important part: from tenderizing the cake and providing moisture to bringing that fruity brightness and aromatic spice.

• Yellow cake mix: A convenient base that ensures a moist, fluffy crumb perfect for absorbing swirls and filling.
• Large eggs: These bind everything together while enriching the texture with natural fat and protein.
• Vegetable oil: Keeps the cake tender and moist without overpowering other flavors.
• Sour cream: Adds a subtle tang and luxurious density for that signature honeybun feel.
• Brown sugar: Brings deep caramel notes and works beautifully with cinnamon.
• Ground cinnamon: The warm spice that gives this cake its comforting, nostalgic character.
• Chopped strawberries: Fresh, juicy bursts of sweetness that make the cake vibrant and refreshing.
• Powdered sugar: Essential for a smooth, sweet icing that melts in your mouth.
• Heavy cream: Creates a luscious, silky strawberry cream icing to drizzle over the cake.

How to Make Strawberry Honeybun Cake with Strawberry Cream Icing

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously greasing a 9×13 inch baking pan. This sets the stage for an evenly baked cake with an easy release once it’s done.

Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter

In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and sour cream. Stir everything thoroughly until your batter is smooth and creamy—this blend guarantees your cake’s wonderful moist texture.

Step 3: Create the Strawberry Cinnamon Mixture

Grab a separate bowl and mix together the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and freshly chopped strawberries. This mixture will infuse each bite with that classic honeybun sweetness alongside lively berry notes.

Step 4: Layer the Batter and Strawberry Mix

Pour half of the cake batter into your prepared pan. Evenly sprinkle half of the strawberry and cinnamon mixture over it. Repeat with the remaining batter and strawberry mixture on top. This layered approach ensures a beautiful distribution of flavors throughout the cake.

Step 5: Swirl for That Iconic Honeybun Look

Use a knife or a skewer to gently swirl the batter and strawberry mixture together. This creates a stunning marbled effect that looks as gorgeous as it tastes.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Perfect

Place your pan in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, revealing a tender but fully cooked cake inside.

Step 7: Prepare the Strawberry Cream Icing

While the cake is baking, whisk together powdered sugar and heavy cream until thick and smooth. This simple icing adds an irresistible creaminess with just the right touch of sweetness.

Step 8: Finish and Enjoy

Once the cake cools slightly, drizzle the strawberry cream icing generously over the top. Let it set just a bit before slicing so every piece boasts a glossy, delicious finish. Then dig in and enjoy your homemade Strawberry Honeybun Cake with Strawberry Cream Icing.

How to Serve Strawberry Honeybun Cake with Strawberry Cream Icing

Garnishes

Adding fresh strawberry slices or a light dusting of cinnamon powder on top can enhance the cake’s appeal and taste. For a touch of elegance, a sprig of mint works beautifully, providing a fresh contrast to the sweetness.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, which complements the warm cinnamon and strawberry flavors. For a brunch spread, consider serving it alongside fresh fruit salad or lightly toasted nuts for crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming presentation, cut the cake into small squares and serve on decorative plates, each crowned with a drizzle of extra icing and a strawberry half. You can also serve it in layers with whipped cream and fresh strawberries in a trifle dish for a stunning dessert twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Strawberry Honeybun Cake with Strawberry Cream Icing fresh by storing leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer freshness, refrigerate the cake tightly wrapped for up to five days without drying it out.

Freezing

This cake freezes well if you want to save some for later. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge to maintain moisture and flavor.

Reheating

Warm your cake gently in the microwave or oven to revive the soft, fresh-baked texture. About 15 seconds in the microwave or 10 minutes at 300°F (150°C) in the oven works well, especially if you’ve refrigerated it beforehand.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Fresh strawberries are ideal for texture and flavor, but if frozen are all you have, be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture that could affect the cake’s consistency.

Is there a way to make this cake healthier?

You can substitute part of the vegetable oil with applesauce for less fat and use a low-sugar cake mix. Keep in mind this might slightly alter the moistness and texture but is doable if you’re looking to lighten the recipe.

How do I prevent the strawberry mixture from sinking?

By creating a thick batter and layering the strawberry mixture evenly, this recipe minimizes sinking. The sour cream in the batter also helps maintain a dense enough structure to hold the fruit suspended beautifully.

Can I double the recipe for a bigger crowd?

Absolutely! Just double all the ingredients and bake in a larger pan or two pans, adjusting bake time slightly—just watch closely until a tester comes out clean.

What makes the strawberry cream icing so special?

It’s delightfully simple but silky, providing a luscious contrast to the sweet and spiced cake, elevating the overall experience with smooth strawberry-infused sweetness without being overpowering.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly heartwarming about sharing a slice of Strawberry Honeybun Cake with Strawberry Cream Icing with loved ones. Whether for a casual family gathering or a special occasion, this cake’s blend of fruity freshness and cozy spice is sure to become a cherished favorite. Give it a try and watch it disappear fast—it’s that good!

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