If you’re searching for a treat that combines the warmth of fresh baking with the nostalgic magic of doughnuts, look no further! This cinnamon-swirled doughnut roll recipe is a celebration of fluffy, honey-kissed dough layered with cinnamon sugar and finished with a delicate glaze. The best part? The Ingredients come together seamlessly, balancing tender texture with bold, sweet flavors in every bite. Whether you’re frying up a batch for brunch or sneaking a slice as an afternoon pick-me-up, this recipe guarantees smiles all around.

Ingredients You’ll Need

There’s a little alchemy going on when you pull together a few pantry basics to make something truly special. Each of these Ingredients has a job to do, ensuring your doughnut roll rises beautifully, tastes irresistible, and looks absolutely mouthwatering.

All-purpose flour: Forms the soft, pillowy base of the dough and gives just the right chew after frying.
Granulated sugar: Adds subtle sweetness to the dough and for coating with cinnamon.
Instant yeast: Gives the dough its airy structure and helps it rise into fluffiness.
Salt: Balances out the sweet flavors and amps up all the Ingredients’ depth.
Warm water (105°F-115°F): Activates the yeast and helps everything blend just right.
Honey: A touch for the dough, a drizzle for the glaze—this adds floral sweetness and an extra golden hue.
Egg: Adds richness and helps the dough stay light and tender.
Vanilla extract: Brings a lovely undertone to both the dough and the glaze.
Shortening (melted): Infuses the dough with softness and that classic doughnut texture.
Vegetable or peanut oil (for frying): The essential frying medium for that golden, crispy finish.
Cinnamon: Paired with sugar, it gives those classic, cozy swirls that make every slice aromatic.
Powdered sugar: The key to a perfectly silky, not-too-sweet glaze.
Butter (melted): Rounds out the glaze with a bit of richness—don’t skip it!
Warm water (for glaze): Adjusts the consistency of your glaze, so every drizzle is just right.
Plastic wrap or kitchen towel: Not technically edible, but essential for helping the dough rise in a cozy spot.

How to Make Homemade Honey Bun Recipe

Step 1: Mix Your Dry Ingredients

Begin by whisking together your all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, and salt in a large mixing bowl. This step ensures every pocket of dough will be perfectly balanced, and it anchors your flavor base. Take a moment to notice how these simple Ingredients set the stage for all the deliciousness to follow!

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the warm water, pourable honey (give it a quick zap in the microwave if it’s stubborn), egg, and vanilla extract. Give it a good mix until the egg is evenly incorporated—no streaks hiding in there! Then, stir in your melted shortening to add that luxurious softness to the finished doughnut roll.

Step 3: Form the Dough

Pour your wet Ingredients into the dry and attach the dough hook to your stand mixer. With the mixer on low, gently combine everything until just mixed. Once together, let it knead on medium speed for about 8 minutes. The dough should feel slightly sticky but easy to handle, which means it’s ready for its first rise.

Step 4: Let It Rise

Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased glass bowl. Roll the dough to coat it in oil—this step keeps it from drying out as it rises. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and set it somewhere just warm enough. Depending on your kitchen’s mood, let it puff up for 1 to 2 hours, until it’s almost doubled.

Step 5: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Filling

As your dough rises, whisk together granulated sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. This is where that classic cozy flavor comes from! Set it aside so it’s ready to sprinkle and soak into the doughy layers.

Step 6: Roll Out and Shape the Dough

Turn the risen dough onto a floured surface and roll it to a 12×8-inch rectangle. Sprinkle a generous layer of the cinnamon sugar mixture over the top, but leave a clean edge for sealing. Lightly press the sugar into the dough so it stays put during rolling.

Step 7: Roll Up and Seal

Carefully roll the dough up from the long side toward the clean edge. Brush that edge with a tiny bit of water, then smooth it down to seal your roll tightly. This keeps your cinnamon swirl neatly tucked inside (and means less mess in the pan later).

How to Serve Homemade Honey Bun Recipe

Garnishes

You can never go wrong with a finishing flourish! Dust the warm doughnut roll with extra powdered sugar, drizzle with the honey glaze, or add a pinch of extra cinnamon right before serving. Fresh berries or sliced fruit on the side balance out the sweetness while dressing things up beautifully.

Side Dishes

Serve your cinnamon doughnut roll alongside a cool glass of milk or a creamy latte for classic comfort vibes. If you want to turn your treat into a brunch centerpiece, plate it next to fresh fruit salad, yogurts, or even a light, tangy cream cheese dip for contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the roll into thick rounds and serve them stacked on a vintage cake stand for a bakery-style display. For parties, try turning smaller rolls into individual “cinnamon buns,” or drizzle with brightly colored glaze for birthdays and special occasions. The Ingredients are so versatile, you can really let your imagination run wild!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover slices stay fresh in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, pop them in the fridge—they’ll keep their soft texture thanks to the honey and shortening in the Ingredients.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap the cooled doughnut roll (or individual slices) tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a zip-top freezer bag. They’ll keep nicely for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating

Bring your doughnut roll back to that just-baked magic by warming slices gently in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, or covered in a low oven. A quick reheat reactivates the honeyed aroma and softens the glaze without drying out the tender Ingredients.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough through its first rise, then refrigerate it overnight. Let it come to room temperature for about an hour before rolling out and continuing with the recipe. This flexibility is one of the joys of working with such forgiving Ingredients.

Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant?

Definitely. If using active dry yeast, dissolve it in the warm water and let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy before mixing with the other Ingredients. Everything else remains the same!

What if I don’t have shortening?

If you’re out of shortening, feel free to substitute an equal amount of unsalted butter. This will add a little extra richness and flavor, and the Ingredients will still deliver a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

How do I know when the dough is done rising?

The dough should be noticeably puffier, with a slight jiggle when you touch it. It may not literally double, especially in cooler homes, but as long as it’s expanded and feels airier, your Ingredients have done their job.

Can I fill the roll with something other than cinnamon sugar?

Yes! Try swapping in finely chopped nuts, mini chocolate chips, or even a swirl of fruit jam. As long as you keep the layering technique the same, the Ingredients will play well with all sorts of creative fillings.

Final Thoughts

If you adore sharing something a little extra special, this cinnamon-swirled doughnut roll is bound to become your new favorite. The combination of simple yet thoughtfully chosen Ingredients is what makes it shine. Give it a try—you’ll fall in love bite after fluffy, cinnamon-laced bite!