Honey Bun Cookies

If you’re on the hunt for a cookie that combines the warm, comforting flavors of a classic honey bun with the delightful chewiness of a cookie, then look no further! These Honey Bun Cookies are a delightful treat that will whisk you away to a cozy bakery with every bite. Infused with cinnamon, honey, and a buttery richness, they are perfect for sharing or simply indulging on your own. Let’s dive into why this recipe is a keeper and how you can whip up these delicious cookies in no time!

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

Honey Bun Cookies are not just any ordinary cookie; they are a sweet twist on a beloved favorite. The combination of cinnamon and honey brings a unique flavor profile that makes these cookies incredibly appealing. They are soft, chewy, and have a melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s simply irresistible. Plus, they are easy to make, and the ingredients are likely already in your pantry. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or treating yourself, these cookies are sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire.

What You’ll Gather

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – This is the base of our cookie dough, providing richness and flavor.
• ¾ cup granulated sugar – For sweetness and to help achieve that perfect cookie texture.
• ¾ cup light brown sugar, packed – Adds moisture and a lovely caramel flavor.
• 2 large eggs, room temperature – These help to bind the ingredients together.
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract (or to taste) – A must for enhancing the overall flavor.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour – The main structure of our cookies.
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch – Helps to create a soft and chewy texture.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder – Adds lift and fluffiness.
• ½ teaspoon baking soda – Works alongside the baking powder for the perfect rise.
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon – The star spice that gives these cookies their signature flavor.
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt – Balances the sweetness.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened – For the frosting that takes these cookies to the next level.
• 1 cup confectioners sugar, sift if lumpy – For a smooth and creamy frosting.
• 2 tablespoons honey – Adds a touch of sweetness and ties the flavors together.
• 2 tablespoons milk (2%, whole, or your favorite) – To achieve the right consistency for the frosting.

Kitchen Gear Checklist

• Mixing bowls – For combining your wet and dry ingredients.
• Electric mixer – Makes creaming the butter and sugars effortless.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Accurate measurements are key to baking success.
• Baking sheets – For spreading out your cookies to bake evenly.
• Parchment paper – Helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
• Cooling rack – Essential for cooling your cookies properly.
• Spatula – For mixing and transferring cookies with ease.

Cook Honey Bun Cookies Like This

Step 1: Cream the Butters and Sugars

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

Step 2: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the room temperature eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract to infuse the batter with its lovely aroma.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and kosher salt. This ensures that all the leavening agents and spices are evenly distributed.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients with Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this will result in tougher cookies.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough helps the flavors meld and prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking.

Step 6: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies

Scoop the chilled 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 will look slightly underbaked, but they will continue to cook on the baking sheet.

Step 8: Make the Honey Frosting

While the cookies are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a bowl, beat together the softened unsalted butter, confectioners’ sugar, honey, and milk until smooth and creamy. Adjust the milk to achieve your desired consistency.

Step 9: Frost the Cookies

Once the cookies have cooled completely, spread a generous layer of honey frosting on top of each cookie. Feel free to get creative with your frosting technique!

Step 10: Enjoy Your Honey Bun Cookies

Serve these delightful cookies fresh, or share them with friends and family. They are best enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea!

Low-Carb/Keto Alternatives

• Butter: Use unsalted butter; it’s already keto-friendly.
• Granulated Sweetener: Substitute granulated sugar with a low-carb sweetener like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener.
• Brown Sugar Substitute: Use a brown sugar replacement made from erythritol for that hint of molasses flavor.
• Almond Flour: Replace all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour for a low-carb option.
• Eggs and Vanilla: These ingredients remain the same as they are naturally low-carb.

Avoid These Mistakes

• Not softening the butter: Softened butter is crucial for achieving the right texture.
• Overmixing the dough: This can lead to tough cookies, so mix until just combined.
• Skipping the chill: Chilling the dough helps prevent excessive spreading.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is a science, so be precise with your measurements.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

Once your Honey Bun Cookies are baked, allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you’d like to rewarm them, simply pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes to regain that fresh-baked feel.

Honey Bun Cookies FAQs

Can I freeze Honey Bun Cookies?

Absolutely! You can freeze the baked cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months. You can also freeze the dough before baking; just make sure to let it thaw in the refrigerator before baking.

Can I use a different type of sweetener?

Yes, you can substitute granulated sugar and brown sugar with your preferred sweetener, but results may vary in texture and taste. Experiment to find what works best for you!

What can I use instead of honey?

If you prefer not to use honey, you can replace it with maple syrup or agave syrup for a similar sweetness and flavor profile.

How can I make these cookies more festive?

Feel free to add mix-ins like chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits to the dough before baking for an extra layer of flavor and texture!

Final Bite

With their delightful honey glaze and soft texture, these Honey Bun Cookies are sure to become a beloved part of your cookie baking tradition. Perfect for any occasion or simply to enjoy at home, they are the ideal blend of flavors and textures. So gather your ingredients and get ready to savor every sweet bite of these irresistible treats! Happy baking!