Honey Bun Cookies

There’s something incredibly nostalgic about the flavor of honey buns, those sweet, sticky treats that evoke memories of cozy mornings and warm kitchens. Imagine all that deliciousness packed into a cookie! That’s exactly what these Honey Bun Cookies deliver: a wonderfully soft bite with a swirl of cinnamon and a sweet glaze drizzled on top. They are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a gathering or just want to indulge in a delightful treat at home. Let’s dive into why these cookies are a must-try and how you can whip them up in your own kitchen.

Why Cooks Rave About It

Honey Bun Cookies have become a favorite among bakers for several reasons. Not only do they boast a delightful balance of sweetness and warmth from the cinnamon, but they also offer a soft, chewy texture that makes them irresistible. The combination of light and dark sugars ensures a rich flavor that pairs beautifully with the honey glaze. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and yields fantastic results. Plus, they make a stunning addition to any dessert table!

Ingredient List

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs, room temp
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract, or to taste (this is 3 teaspoons)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened (for glaze)
• 1 cup confectioners sugar, sift if lumpy
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons milk, 2%, whole, or your favorite

What You’ll Need (Gear)

• Mixing bowls: For combining your ingredients.
• Electric mixer: To cream the butter and sugars efficiently.
• Baking sheets: Line with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
• Cookie scoop: For uniform cookie sizes.
• Cooling rack: To let your cookies cool properly.

From Start to Finish: Honey Bun Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This ensures that your cookies won’t stick and will bake evenly.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the room temperature eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and kosher salt. This will ensure that your dry ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 5: Mix Dry with Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want soft, tender cookies.

Step 6: Scoop and Bake

Using a cookie scoop, drop generous tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked, but they’ll continue to cook on the baking sheet.

Step 7: Prepare the Honey Glaze

While the cookies are baking, prepare the honey glaze. In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, confectioners sugar, honey, and milk until smooth and creamy. Adjust the milk quantity for your desired consistency.

Step 8: Glaze and Cool

Once the cookies are out of the oven, let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Drizzle the honey glaze over the warm cookies, allowing it to soak in slightly for extra sweetness.

Healthier Substitutions

• Butter: Use coconut oil or unsweetened applesauce for a lighter option.
• Granulated sugar: Substitute with coconut sugar or a sugar alternative like monk fruit sweetener.
• Flour: Whole wheat flour can be used for added nutrition.
• Milk: Swap with almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free version.

Pitfalls & How to Prevent Them

To ensure your Honey Bun Cookies turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Make sure your butter is softened but not melted; this helps achieve the right texture.
• Room temperature eggs incorporate better into the batter, giving a smoother consistency.
• Don’t overbake your cookies; they should be soft in the center when you take them out.
• Allowing the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes helps them set without becoming too firm.

Storage Pro Tips

To keep your Honey Bun Cookies fresh and delicious:

• Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
• If you want to keep them longer, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag once solid for up to 3 months.
• To thaw, simply leave them at room temperature for a few hours or microwave for a few seconds to warm.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I make these cookies without eggs?

Yes! You can replace each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes).

What can I use instead of honey in the glaze?

If you prefer not to use honey, maple syrup is a delicious alternative that will still provide that sweet, sticky finish!

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to these cookies?

Absolutely! Chopped pecans, walnuts, or even chocolate chips would add a delightful texture and flavor boost to your Honey Bun Cookies.

How do I know when my cookies are done baking?

Look for a light golden brown around the edges, and a soft center. They will continue to bake slightly while cooling on the baking sheet.

See You at the Table

Indulging in Honey Bun Cookies is more than just a treat; it’s a delightful experience that brings warmth and sweetness to any moment. Whether you enjoy them with a cup of coffee, at a family gathering, or as a special dessert for yourself, these cookies are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy every delicious bite of these heavenly creations!

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