Vegan Honey Buns

Irresistibly Soft & Sticky: The Ultimate Homemade Vegan Honey Buns Recipe

Imagine waking up to the aroma of freshly baked pastries, their sweet, golden-brown tops gleaming with a luscious glaze. That’s precisely the magic of these homemade vegan honey buns! Sweet, pillowy soft, and irresistibly sticky, they are truly the perfect special treat for a leisurely weekend breakfast or a delightful brunch gathering. Forget store-bought versions; these plant-based beauties offer a depth of flavor and a tender texture that you just can’t replicate, making every bite a moment of pure comfort and indulgence.

Baking dish of homemade honey buns

At their heart, honey buns are a beloved type of pastry crafted from an enriched dough. Unlike classic, lean breads—such as your everyday No Knead Bread or a tangy sourdough, which typically rely on just flour, water, and salt—enriched breads are characterized by the opulent addition of fats and sugars. These extra ingredients transform the dough, making it wonderfully tender, subtly sweet, and incredibly versatile, much like my popular Vegan Japanese Milk Bread or a beautiful challah loaf. Once the dough is perfected, it’s rolled into elegant spirals, reminiscent of classic Vegan Cinnamon Rolls, then baked to golden perfection and lavishly coated in a sweet, sticky glaze. The entire process is not just a recipe; it’s a delightful baking project that yields truly spectacular results, making them an incredible treat to share and enjoy!

Why These Vegan Honey Buns Will Become Your New Favorite

These puffy, tender, and oh-so-sweet vegan honey buns are more than just a recipe; they’re an experience. While they involve working with yeast, making them a truly rewarding baking project, the effort is undeniably worth it. Here’s a closer look at why you’ll absolutely fall in love with them and find yourself making them again and again:

  • Authentic Honey Flavor, Fully Vegan: Craving that distinct honey taste without animal products? We’ve got you covered! This recipe utilizes a fantastic vegan honey substitute. You can easily find high-quality store-bought vegan honey, which has a remarkably similar taste and texture to conventional honey, or for an even more hands-on approach, check out my recipe notes where I provide simple instructions to make your own at home from scratch. It’s a game-changer for plant-based baking and opens up a world of possibilities for ethically conscious eaters. For a deeper dive into the ethics and options, explore: Is Honey Vegan?
  • A Deeply Satisfying Baking Project: There’s a unique sense of pride and accomplishment that comes with baking breads, rolls, and buns from scratch using yeast. It’s a culinary journey that engages all your senses, from feeling the dough transform under your hands, kneading it until it’s smooth and elastic, to watching it magically rise and puff up. If you’re someone who cherishes the process as much as the delectable end results, you’ll find immense joy and a wonderful sense of calm in crafting these homemade honey buns. It’s a wonderful way to unwind, practice mindfulness, and create something truly special and delicious.
  • The Ultimate Crowd-Pleaser for Brunch Gatherings: Planning a brunch with friends, hosting a family get-together, or bringing a delightful treat to a morning potluck? These vegan honey buns are guaranteed to be the star of the show. Their universal appeal—soft, sweet, and sticky—means you certainly don’t need to be vegan to adore their comforting goodness. They are a delightful addition to any breakfast spread, bringing smiles and satisfying cravings for everyone at the table, making you the undisputed brunch hero.
  • Unbeatable Texture and Taste: Beyond being vegan, these buns boast an incredibly soft, fluffy interior, thanks to the enriched dough and proper yeast activation. This tender crumb is perfectly complemented by a rich, warm cinnamon-infused filling and a wonderfully sticky, sweet glaze that coats every surface. Each bite is a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that will transport you to a state of pure comfort and indulgence. They strike the perfect balance between sweetness and spice, making them utterly irresistible and incredibly moreish.
Overhead view of ingredients for honey buns with labels

Essential Ingredients for Your Perfect Vegan Honey Buns

Baking with yeast is a delicate balance, often considered more an art than an exact science. For the best results with these vegan honey buns, I strongly recommend sticking to the ingredient list as closely as possible and avoiding substitutions, especially for leavening agents and fats. Precision is key when working with yeast dough to achieve that signature pillowy texture and perfect rise. For precise quantities and detailed step-by-step instructions, please scroll down to the comprehensive recipe card at the bottom of this page.

For the Dough:

  • Unsweetened Soy Milk: This is our crucial liquid base, providing essential moisture and helping to properly activate the yeast. It’s absolutely crucial to warm it gently—it should feel warm to the touch, like a comfortable bath, but never hot. A temperature between 105-115°F (40-46°C) is ideal for waking up the yeast and encouraging it to multiply without killing it. While other plant milks can work, soy milk offers a rich flavor and protein content that contributes beautifully to the dough’s overall structure and tenderness.
  • Granulated Sugar: More than just for sweetness, sugar plays a vital role in this recipe as it acts as immediate food for the yeast, helping it to activate and thrive efficiently, which is essential for a good, robust rise. It also contributes significantly to the beautiful golden-brown crust and the wonderfully tender crumb of the baked buns.
  • Instant Yeast: This magical ingredient is what gives our honey buns their light, airy, and fluffy texture. Instant yeast is quite convenient as it can often be mixed directly with the dry ingredients, but here we’ll “bloom” it with warm milk and sugar to ensure it’s active and vigorously ready to work its magic. If you’re curious about this fascinating ingredient and its vegan status, read more: Is Yeast Vegan?
  • Vegan Butter: This crucial ingredient provides richness and incredible tenderness to the dough, creating that desirable “enriched” quality that defines a honey bun. Be sure to melt it first, but then let it cool to lukewarm before adding it to the yeast mixture. Adding butter that is too hot will deactivate the yeast, preventing your buns from rising properly and resulting in dense, heavy pastries.
  • Vegan Honey: This is where the signature “honey bun” flavor truly comes to life! Whether you opt for a high-quality store-bought vegan honey (many excellent brands are available) or prefer to prepare your own using the simple method provided in the recipe notes, this ingredient is absolutely vital for the distinctive sweet taste and the characteristic sticky texture of these delightful buns.
  • Salt: A small but mighty ingredient, salt enhances the flavors of all the other components in the dough, bringing out their best characteristics. It also plays an important role in controlling the yeast activity, ensuring a steady, consistent, and even rise, preventing the dough from over-proofing too quickly.
  • All-Purpose Flour: The backbone and structural component of our dough. The exact quantity you need can subtly fluctuate due to environmental factors like the humidity in your kitchen. On a more humid day, the flour might absorb more moisture from the air. Always start with the recommended amount and gradually add more, a tablespoon at a time, only if the dough remains too sticky to handle comfortably after initial mixing and kneading. The goal is a soft, manageable dough that’s still slightly tacky, not dry or stiff.

For the Irresistible Filling:

  • Vegan Butter (Softened): Softened, not melted, vegan butter ensures a smooth, luscious, and easily spreadable filling that adheres beautifully to the rolled-out dough. My homemade vegan butter recipe works exceptionally well here, adding a wonderful depth of flavor and creamy texture.
  • Brown Sugar: This provides a deeper, more caramel-like sweetness compared to granulated sugar, perfectly complementing the warm notes of cinnamon. You can use either light brown or dark brown sugar, with dark brown sugar offering a more pronounced molasses flavor and a richer color.
  • Vegan Honey or Plant-Based Syrup: Again, the vegan honey shines brightly here, intensifying the overall honey flavor of the buns. If you don’t have vegan honey on hand, another thick, plant-based syrup like date syrup or agave syrup can be a good substitute, though do note that the flavor profile will subtly change.
  • Cinnamon: The classic, aromatic spice that makes this filling so warm, inviting, and truly iconic. Don’t skimp on it; it’s absolutely essential for that comforting honey bun aroma and quintessential taste that everyone loves.

For the Luscious Glaze:

  • Vegan Butter (Softened): Similar to the filling, softened vegan butter in the glaze ensures a smooth, rich, and creamy consistency that coats each bun perfectly, adding to its luxurious mouthfeel.
  • Powdered Sugar (Confectioners’ Sugar): This incredibly fine sugar dissolves effortlessly, creating a silky-smooth glaze without any unwanted grittiness. If you ever find yourself without it, you can even learn how to make powdered sugar at home using granulated sugar in a food processor!
  • Vegan Honey : The final, crucial touch of vegan honey in the glaze brings all the flavors together, creating that iconic sticky, sweet finish that honey buns are universally famous for. It’s the crowning glory of these delightful pastries, ensuring every bite is perfectly sticky and sweet.

Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Own Vegan Honey Buns

Embarking on the journey of making homemade vegan honey buns is incredibly rewarding and surprisingly achievable. While the process involves a few distinct stages, each step is straightforward and designed for success, even for novice bakers. For precise measurements and a full printable recipe, please refer to the detailed recipe card at the bottom of this article. Here’s a more descriptive walkthrough to guide you through creating these irresistible treats:

Yeast and milk mixture in bowl
Activate the yeast.
Wet ingredients for dough in bowl
Mix the liquid ingredients.
Dough for honey buns in glass bowl
Stir in the flour.
  • Activate the Yeast: Begin by gently warming your unsweetened soy milk. It should feel warm to the touch, similar to baby bath water, but definitely not hot – excessive heat will kill the delicate yeast organisms. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the warm soy milk, granulated sugar, and instant yeast. Let this mixture sit undisturbed for about 5 to 10 minutes. During this crucial time, the yeast will “bloom” or “activate,” indicated by a frothy, foamy layer forming on the surface. This beautiful foam is your clear sign that your yeast is alive, active, and ready to make your buns wonderfully airy and light!
  • Form the Dough: Once your yeast is visibly active and frothy, add the cooled melted vegan butter, the vegan honey, and the salt to the bowl. Stir these wet ingredients thoroughly until they are well combined and integrated. Then, begin incorporating the all-purpose flour gradually, adding it a cup at a time. Mix with a sturdy spoon or, even better, a dough hook on a stand mixer until a shaggy, soft dough begins to form. It’s important to note that you might not need all the flour initially, as consistency can vary based on ambient humidity and specific flour brands.
Dough in bowl before rising
Knead until smooth.
Dough in bowl after rising
Let the dough rise.
  • Knead the Dough to Perfection: Turn the newly formed dough out onto a lightly floured clean surface. Begin the kneading process, pushing and folding the dough with your hands, using a gentle but firm motion. Continue kneading for about 5-7 minutes, or until the dough transforms into a smooth, elastic ball that is much less sticky to the touch. If it’s still too sticky to handle comfortably, add a very small amount of flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency. It’s crucial to avoid adding too much flour, as this can result in a dry, dense bun rather than the desired soft, pillowy texture.
  • Allow the Dough to Rise (First Proof): Lightly grease a clean, large bowl with a little vegan butter or a neutral oil. Transfer the kneaded dough to this bowl, turning it over once to ensure the entire surface is lightly coated. This prevents it from sticking as it rises. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel to create a warm, humid environment. Place it in a warm, draft-free spot in your kitchen. This first rise, or proofing, is crucial for developing both the flavor and the texture of the dough. Allow it to proof for 1 to 2 hours, or until the dough has visibly doubled in volume. A warm oven (turned off, perhaps with just the pilot light on if it’s a gas oven, or simply preheated slightly then turned off) can be an excellent, consistent rising environment.
Butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon mixture in bowl
Make the filling.
Cinnamon sugar spread on dough
Spread onto the dough.
Sliced vegan honey buns on cutting board
Roll and slice.
  • Prepare the Flavorful Filling: While the dough is undergoing its essential first rise, it’s the perfect time to prepare the luscious, aromatic filling. In a small mixing bowl, combine the softened vegan butter, brown sugar (you can use either light or dark brown sugar, according to your preference!), vegan honey, and ground cinnamon. Stir these ingredients together until they form a smooth, creamy, and wonderfully fragrant paste. This delicious filling is what gives the honey buns their distinctive flavor, aroma, and signature swirl.
  • Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has beautifully doubled in size, gently “punch it down” to release the accumulated air. This doesn’t mean a forceful punch like a boxer, but rather a gentle deflation with your fist to evenly distribute the gases. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Using a rolling pin, roll the dough into a large rectangle, aiming for a thickness of about 1/2 inch (1.2 cm). Work carefully and try to maintain an even thickness across the entire surface, as this helps with uniform baking and consistent bun size.
  • Form the Buns: Evenly spread the prepared vegan honey-cinnamon filling over the entire surface of the rolled-out dough. Make sure to leave a small border (about half an inch) on one of the long edges of the rectangle; this will help you seal the roll effectively. Starting from the opposite long edge, carefully and tightly roll the dough into a log. Once rolled, use a sharp knife or a piece of unwaxed dental floss (a great trick for clean cuts!) to slice the log into 12 equally sized rolls. Arrange these beautiful spirals in a greased 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) baking dish, ensuring you leave a little space between each bun as they will expand significantly during their second rise and baking.
Vegan honey buns in baking dish before rising
Let the rolls rise.
Vegan honey buns in baking dish before baking
Bake.
  • Second Rise (Proofing the Buns) & Preheat Oven: Cover the baking dish containing your shaped buns loosely with a clean kitchen cloth or plastic wrap. Allow the buns to rise for another 30 minutes in a warm, draft-free spot. During this second rise, they will puff up beautifully and become even more tender, a process known as proofing. Towards the end of this proofing time, it’s important to preheat your oven to 350ºF (175°C), ensuring it’s at the correct temperature when the buns are ready to go in.
  • Bake to Golden Perfection: Carefully place the baking dish into your preheated oven. Bake for approximately 20 to 25 minutes, or until the tops are beautifully golden brown and the buns are cooked through and feel firm but springy to the touch. Keep a close eye on them towards the end of the baking time to prevent any over-browning. Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let the honey buns cool in the dish for about 10 minutes. This crucial cooling period helps them set slightly and makes them easier to handle before glazing.
Overhead view of honey buns before adding glaze
Let the rolls cool a bit.
Overhead view of homemade honey buns in baking dish
Make the glaze and frost the buns.
  • Prepare the Sticky Glaze: While the buns are cooling slightly but still warm, prepare your irresistible glaze. In a medium bowl, whisk together the softened vegan butter, powdered sugar, and vegan honey until the mixture is completely smooth and free of any lumps. The consistency should be thick enough to cling beautifully to the buns but still easily pourable or spreadable. If it’s too thick, add a tiny splash of plant milk; if too thin, add a bit more powdered sugar.
  • Glaze and Serve: Generously spread the prepared glaze over the warm honey buns right in the baking dish. The residual warmth of the buns will help the glaze melt slightly and seep into all the delightful nooks and crannies, creating that signature sticky, glistening finish. Once glazed, gently pull the buns apart with a fork or your hands and serve them immediately while they are still warm, gooey, and utterly delectable. Enjoy every sweet, soft, and sticky bite – they are truly best fresh!

Expert Tips & Delicious Variations for Your Vegan Honey Buns

Mastering yeast dough can feel daunting at first, but with a few simple tricks and a bit of practice, it quickly becomes intuitive and incredibly rewarding. These expert tips and creative variations will help you achieve perfect vegan honey buns every single time and inspire you to get even more creative in the kitchen!

  • Trust Your Dough, Not Just the Recipe’s Flour Measurement: Remember, baking is a responsive art. The precise amount of flour needed for your dough is highly dependent on various environmental factors, particularly the humidity level in your kitchen. On a humid day, your flour will absorb more moisture from the air, meaning you might need to add a touch more flour than initially specified to achieve the correct consistency. Conversely, in drier climates, you might need slightly less. The ultimate key is to feel the dough: it should be soft, pliable, and slightly tacky to the touch, but not overly sticky that it clings stubbornly to your hands or the work surface. Always add flour gradually, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches this ideal texture.
  • Patience is Key: Observe the Dough, Not Just the Clock for Rising: Yeast dough works on its own schedule, and patience is your best friend. While the recipe provides an estimated rising time (also known as proofing), the actual time can vary significantly based on the ambient temperature of your kitchen and the overall activity of your yeast. Instead of rigidly adhering to the clock, learn to observe your dough. It’s ready for the next step when it has visibly doubled in volume and feels light and airy. If your kitchen is cooler, the dough might take longer to rise; a warm spot, like a slightly warmed (but turned off!) oven with the door ajar, or a sunny windowsill, can help create an ideal environment. Some experienced bakers even use clear proofing buckets with volume markings to easily track the dough’s progress.
  • Introduce a Delightful Crunch with Nuts: For an extra layer of texture and a richer flavor dimension, consider adding finely chopped pecans or walnuts to your filling mixture. The nuts will toast beautifully as the buns bake, and their natural oils will release, caramelizing wonderfully with the brown sugar and cinnamon to create an even richer, more complex taste profile. This simple addition elevates the honey buns from wonderfully soft to sensationally satisfying with every bite.
  • Experiment with Warm Spices: While cinnamon is an undeniable classic and the heart of this recipe, don’t hesitate to play with other warm spices in your filling to customize the flavor. A pinch of freshly grated nutmeg, a dash of earthy cardamom, or even a hint of ground ginger can add an exciting and unique twist to the traditional honey bun flavor profile. Start with small amounts and adjust to your personal preference to discover your favorite spice blend.
  • Drizzle with a Different Glaze: For a truly unique touch, you could adapt the glaze beyond the simple vegan honey version. Try a luxurious vanilla bean glaze by adding a generous amount of pure vanilla extract to the powdered sugar and vegan butter. Alternatively, a bright citrus glaze (adding a tablespoon of fresh lemon or orange juice) can offer a refreshing, tangy element. A rich maple syrup-based glaze could also be a delicious and comforting alternative, perfectly complementing the warm flavors of the bun.
  • Individual Buns vs. Pull-Apart Loaf: While typically baked as pull-apart buns in a square or rectangular baking dish, creating a communal centerpiece, you could also bake them individually in muffin tins for perfectly portioned treats. Just be sure to adjust baking time slightly, as smaller buns might cook a bit faster and brown more quickly. This offers a convenient grab-and-go option.
  • Make-Ahead Option for Fresh Mornings: If you dream of enjoying fresh honey buns in the morning without all the early-hour work, you’re in luck! You can prepare the buns up to the second rise, then cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate them overnight. In the morning, remove them from the fridge and let them come to room temperature for about 30-60 minutes (or until visibly puffy again) before baking as directed. This allows for a fresh, warm breakfast with minimal morning effort, perfect for special occasions or lazy weekends.
Lifting vegan honey bun from baking dish

Delightful Serving Suggestions for Your Vegan Honey Buns

These sticky, sweet, and comforting vegan honey buns are utterly delicious on their own, especially when served warm straight from the oven, allowing the glaze to be perfectly gooey. However, they also pair beautifully with a variety of beverages and savory dishes to create a truly memorable and balanced breakfast or brunch experience. Here are some ideas to help you complete your meal and impress your guests:

  • The Perfect Morning Brew Companion: There’s nothing quite like a warm, tender honey bun alongside a soothing hot drink to start your day. My personal favorite pairing is with a fragrant Hot Matcha Latte, where the earthy, slightly bitter notes of matcha beautifully complement the sweetness and spice of the bun. A classic cup of freshly brewed coffee, a calming herbal tea, or a rich vegan hot chocolate would also be absolutely divine and incredibly comforting.
  • Balance with Savory Delights for a Full Brunch: If you’re hosting a full brunch spread, balancing the sweetness of the honey buns with some savory options is key. An Easy Vegan Quiche, bursting with colorful vegetables and a creamy plant-based filling, makes for a hearty and satisfying counterpoint. Alternatively, a fun and customizable Vegan Breakfast Pizza offers a creative and delicious option that guests of all ages, both vegan and non-vegan, will adore.
  • Fresh Fruit and Yogurt for a Lighter Touch: For those who prefer a slightly lighter accompaniment or an added fresh element, serve your honey buns alongside a vibrant bowl of fresh berries, perfectly sliced bananas, or a medley of seasonal fruits. A generous dollop of creamy dairy-free yogurt (plain or vanilla) can add a refreshing, tangy element that wonderfully cuts through the sweetness of the buns, creating a harmonious balance.
  • A Side of Vegan Sausage or Bacon: If you crave that traditional hearty breakfast spread, consider serving your honey buns with a side of crispy vegan bacon or savory plant-based breakfast sausages. The salty and sometimes smoky notes of these items provide a fantastic and satisfying contrast to the sweet pastry, offering a truly complete breakfast experience.
  • With a Warm Fruit Compote: A warm berry compote, a chunky spiced apple sauce, or a pear compote can be a wonderful and elegant addition. These offer a touch of fruity tartness and extra moisture, elevating the overall presentation and flavor profile of your honey buns.

No matter how you choose to serve them, these homemade vegan honey buns are sure to bring comfort, joy, and a burst of flavor to any morning gathering!

Storing & Reheating Your Vegan Honey Buns for Lasting Freshness

While these vegan honey buns are undeniably at their absolute best when enjoyed fresh and warm straight from the oven, you can easily store any leftovers to savor later. Proper storage is crucial to ensure they remain deliciously soft, tender, and sticky for days to come. Here’s how to keep them at their prime for extended enjoyment:

  • Refrigerator Storage (Short-Term Freshness): If you anticipate enjoying your leftover honey buns within a few days, the refrigerator is your best bet for keeping them fresh. Place them in an airtight container or wrap them snugly with plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out or absorbing any unwanted odors from other foods in the fridge. Stored this way, they will retain their wonderful flavor and texture for up to 5 days. You might find the glaze firming up slightly in the cold, which is completely normal and will soften upon reheating.
  • Freezer Storage (Long-Term Enjoyment): For longer-term storage, the freezer is an excellent option that allows you to enjoy these treats weeks later. Once the buns have completely cooled to room temperature, wrap each individual bun tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place the wrapped buns in a freezer-safe bag or an airtight container. This double-layer protection helps prevent freezer burn and preserves their quality. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator, or for a quicker thaw, individually microwave them for 30-60 seconds on low power, before proceeding with reheating instructions.
  • Reheating for Optimal Enjoyment: The key to bringing leftover honey buns back to life, making them taste almost as good as fresh, is gentle reheating.
    • Microwave Method (Quick & Convenient): For a rapid warm-up, place a single bun on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 15-20 seconds. Start with less time and add more as needed. Be very careful not to overheat, as this can quickly make them tough and chewy rather than soft.
    • Oven Method (Best for Texture & Gooeyness): For a more even warmth and to perfectly revive that freshly baked texture and gooey glaze, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the honey buns in an oven-safe dish (you can cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning on top) and warm for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and wonderfully soft to the touch. This method often helps the glaze to melt and become delightfully sticky and irresistible again.

With these comprehensive storage and reheating tips, you can extend the joy of homemade vegan honey buns and enjoy their comforting taste whenever a craving strikes, ensuring no delicious bun goes to waste!

Frequently Asked Questions About Vegan Honey Buns

  • What is “vegan honey” exactly?
    Vegan honey is a brilliant plant-based syrup specifically formulated to mimic the taste, consistency, and amber appearance of traditional bee-produced honey, but without any animal products. It’s typically crafted from natural ingredients like apple juice, cane sugar, and sometimes includes floral essences or lemon juice to achieve that characteristic honey-like flavor. You can find excellent, readily available store-bought versions in most health food stores or online, or you can opt to make your own at home (check the recipe notes in the recipe card for detailed instructions!).
  • Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast in this recipe?
    Yes, you absolutely can use active dry yeast as a substitute for instant yeast, but with a slight adjustment. You’ll generally need about 25% more active dry yeast than instant yeast to achieve the same leavening power. For example, if the recipe calls for 3 teaspoons of instant yeast, use about 3 ¾ teaspoons of active dry yeast. Crucially, you’ll also need to activate active dry yeast first; dissolve it in the warm soy milk and sugar mixture for about 10 minutes until it becomes frothy, ensuring it’s fully bloomed and vigorous before proceeding to add other ingredients. Instant yeast is more forgiving as it can typically be mixed directly with dry ingredients, but blooming it ensures success regardless.
  • How do I know if my yeast is truly active and fresh?
    After combining the warm soy milk (ensure it’s between 105-115°F), granulated sugar, and yeast, let the mixture sit undisturbed for 5-10 minutes. The tell-tale sign of active and healthy yeast is if the mixture becomes visibly bubbly and forms a frothy, foamy layer on the surface. This effervescence indicates that the yeast is alive and metabolizing the sugar. If, after this time, you don’t see any foam or bubbles, your yeast may be old, inactive, or the liquid temperature was either too hot (which kills the yeast) or too cold (which inhibits its activity). In such cases, it’s best to start again with fresh yeast and carefully check your liquid temperature.
  • My dough isn’t rising as expected. What might have gone wrong?
    Several factors can affect dough rising, and it’s a common concern for bakers:
    • Inactive Yeast: This is the most common culprit. If your yeast wasn’t active to begin with (no foam in the initial step), the dough simply won’t rise.
    • Incorrect Temperature: Yeast requires a warm, draft-free environment to thrive. An ideal temperature range for rising is generally between 75-85°F (24-30°C). If your kitchen is too cold, the yeast will be sluggish and rise very slowly or not at all; if it’s too hot, it can over-proof quickly and then collapse.
    • Expired Ingredients: Old or expired flour and especially old yeast can significantly hinder rising, as the yeast loses its potency over time.
    • Too Much Flour: A very stiff, dense dough will struggle to rise as the gluten structure is too tight to expand effectively. Ensure your dough is soft and slightly tacky after kneading.
    • Insufficient Kneading: Proper kneading develops the gluten network, which traps the gases produced by the yeast, allowing the dough to rise. If not kneaded enough, the structure won’t be strong enough.
  • Can I make these vegan honey buns gluten-free?
    While this recipe is specifically designed and tested for all-purpose wheat flour, converting yeast-based recipes to be truly gluten-free can be quite challenging due to the inherent lack of gluten structure. Gluten is what gives yeast dough its elasticity and ability to trap gas and rise. You would typically need a specialized gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that contains ingredients like xanthan gum to help replicate some of that structure. However, the texture and rise might still be different from the original. For best results, it’s often more reliable to seek out a recipe specifically developed and optimized for gluten-free yeast buns.
  • How do I achieve that irresistible, extra-sticky glaze on my buns?
    The key to creating wonderfully sticky buns lies in two main factors: generous glazing and applying it at the right temperature. First, don’t be shy with the glaze; ensure you apply a liberal amount over the tops of the buns. Second, and perhaps most importantly, apply the glaze while the buns are still warm, but not piping hot. The residual warmth helps the glaze to melt slightly, allowing it to seep into the buns and create that signature, luscious, sticky coating that everyone loves. For an even deeper glaze penetration, you can gently poke a few small holes in the warm buns with a skewer or toothpick before spreading the glaze, allowing more of that sweet goodness to absorb into the tender interior.
Vegan honey bun on plate with bite on fork

Discover More Delicious Vegan Breakfast Pastries

If you’ve thoroughly enjoyed the delightful process of making these vegan honey buns and are now eager to explore more plant-based treats to brighten your mornings, you’re in luck! My kitchen is brimming with irresistible recipes that are perfect for breakfast, a leisurely brunch, or simply a sweet anytime indulgence. Dive into some of these other fantastic vegan pastry options and expand your baking repertoire:

  • Gingerbread Doughnuts with Cinnamon-Ginger Glaze: A festive and wonderfully flavorful doughnut, perfectly spiced for the cooler months or any time you crave a comforting treat.
  • Homemade Pumpkin Pop Tarts: Recreate this beloved nostalgic treat with a homemade, plant-based twist and a delicious, seasonal pumpkin filling that’s truly irresistible.
  • Fluffy Vegan Scones Recipe: These light and tender scones are perfect for an elegant afternoon tea or a quick, satisfying breakfast, especially when served with your favorite jam and a dollop of vegan cream.
  • Classic Vegan Donuts: Achieve that perfect airy, tender, and beautifully golden doughnut at home with this foolproof recipe. You’ll be amazed at how simple and delicious homemade vegan donuts can be!
  • Cinnamon Roll French Toast: This creative fusion recipe takes two breakfast favorites to an entirely new level of decadence and flavor, combining the best of both worlds into one unforgettable dish.

I hope you absolutely cherish every moment of making and devouring these incredible homemade vegan honey buns, my friends! Your baking adventures and culinary curiosity mean the world to me. If you do whip up a batch of these sticky delights, please don’t forget to capture a beautiful photo and share it on Instagram, tagging #jessicainthekitchen. Your gorgeous creations inspire us all and help spread the joy of plant-based baking! We’d also be absolutely thrilled if you could take a moment to leave a comment below and give the recipe a rating. Your valuable feedback not only brightens my day but also helps our wonderful community of bakers grow and discover new favorites. Thank you so, so much for being here and happy baking!

Vegan honey buns in baking dish

Honey Buns

Servings: 12 buns
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
1 hour 45 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Sweet, pillowy soft, and irresistibly sticky, these homemade honey buns are the perfect special treat for a weekend breakfast or brunch!

5 (from 1 rating)
Print Recipe
Pin Recipe
Leave a Review
Prevent your screen from going dark

Ingredients

For the Dough:

  • 1 cup unsweetened soy milk, warm – 240 ml
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, 25 g
  • 3 teaspoons instant yeast, 9 g
  • ½ cup vegan butter, melted but not hot – 113 g
  • 2 tablespoons vegan honey, 30 ml
  • ½ teaspoon salt, 2.5 g
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour, more if needed – 375 g

For the Filling:

  • cup vegan butter, softened – 75 g
  • ½ cup brown sugar, 100 g
  • 2 tablespoons vegan honey, or plant-based syrup – 30 ml
  • 2 teaspoons cinnamon, 4 g

For the Glaze:

  • 4 tablespoons softened vegan butter, 56 g
  • 1 cup powdered sugar, 120 g
  • 2 tablespoons vegan honey, or plant-based syrup – 30 ml

Instructions 

  • In a bowl, combine the warm soy milk, granulated sugar, and instant yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
  • Add the melted vegan butter, vegan honey and salt to the yeast mixture and mix well.
  • Gradually add the all-purpose flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms.
  • Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth. If the dough is sticky, add a bit more flour as needed.
  • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until it doubles in size.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine the softened vegan butter, brown sugar, vegan honey, and cinnamon. Mix until smooth and creamy.
  • Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface to a rectangle about 1/2 inch (1.2 cm) thick.
  • Spread the filling evenly over the dough.
  • Roll the dough tightly into a log, starting from one of the long sides.
  • Cut the log into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) baking dish.
  • Cover the baking dish with a cloth and let the buns rise for another 30 minutes until they puff up.
  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Bake the buns for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
  • Remove from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes before frosting.
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the softened vegan butter, powdered sugar, and vegan honey until smooth.
  • Once the buns are out of the oven, spread the frosting over them while still warm.

Notes

Homemade Vegan Honey

  • 1 cup apple juice – 240 ml
  • 1 cup granulated sugar – 200 g
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice – 15 ml

In a saucepan, combine the apple juice and granulated sugar. Stir well until the sugar is fully dissolved.

Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens. The consistency should be syrupy but not overly thick.

Once thickened, stir in the lemon juice.

Remove from heat and let the mixture cool down to room temperature. Transfer to a clean glass jar or container and seal it. Store in the refrigerator for about 1-2 weeks.

Storage Instructions

  • Refrigerator: Store leftover honey buns in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. 
  • Freezer: Wrap individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm them up before serving. 
  • To reheat: Warm honey buns in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or place them in a preheated oven at 300°F until they’re warm.
Calories: 369kcal, Carbohydrates: 55g, Protein: 5g, Fat: 15g, Saturated Fat: 3g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g, Monounsaturated Fat: 6g, Trans Fat: 1g, Sodium: 242mg, Potassium: 114mg, Fiber: 2g, Sugar: 29g, Vitamin A: 643IU, Vitamin C: 0.1mg, Calcium: 44mg, Iron: 2mg

Disclaimer: Although jessicainthekitchen.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, kindly note that these are only estimates. Nutritional information may be affected based on the product type, the brand that was purchased, and in other unforeseeable ways. Jessicainthekitchen.com will not be held liable for any loss or damage resulting for your reliance on nutritional information. If you need to follow a specific caloric regimen, please consult your doctor first.

Cuisine: American
Course: Breads, Breakfast, brunch
Author: Jessica Hylton