Description
Strawberry Honeybun Cake
Ingredients:
1 box (15.25 oz) vanilla cake mix
1 tsp cinnamon
3 eggs
1/3 cup vegetable oil
1/3 cup lemon juice
1/2 cup strawberry preserves
1 cup powdered sugar
Steps:
Preheat oven to 350°F.
Combine cake mix, cinnamon, eggs, oil, and lemon juice.
Pour batter in layers with strawberry preserves.
Bake for 40 minutes and cool.
Drizzle with a lemon glaze.
Would you pair this with coffee or tea? Comment below!
#LemonBerryDelight
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect Strawberry Honeybun Cake.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry vanilla cake mix and cinnamon. Whisk to incorporate.
- Add the eggs, vegetable oil, and lemon juice to the dry ingredients. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2 minutes, until the batter is smooth and well combined.
- Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
- Warm the strawberry preserves slightly in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to make them easier to spread. Dollop the preserves over the batter layer and gently spread it into an even layer, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Carefully pour and spread the remaining cake batter over the strawberry layer, sealing the edges as best you can.
- Bake for 38-42 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- While the cake cools, make the glaze by whisking the powdered sugar with 1-2 tablespoons of lemon juice until you achieve a thick but pourable consistency.
- Once the cake is completely cool, drizzle the lemon glaze over the top in a zig-zag pattern.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is wonderfully versatile. Serve it slightly warm for a comforting dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a brunch or afternoon treat, pair a slice with a cup of hot coffee, which cuts through the sweetness, or a citrusy herbal tea like Earl Grey. Garnish with fresh strawberry slices and a light dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.
How-to Summary
In short: Mix cake batter with cinnamon, lemon juice, eggs, and oil. Layer half the batter in a pan, add a swirl of strawberry preserves, and top with the remaining batter. Bake at 350°F for ~40 minutes. Finish with a simple lemon-powdered sugar glaze once cooled.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of preserves?
Preserves are recommended for their concentrated flavor and thick consistency, which prevents the cake from becoming soggy. If using fresh, macerate chopped strawberries with a little sugar first and use less to avoid excess moisture.
What can I substitute for lemon juice?
Buttermilk or plain yogurt are excellent substitutes for lemon juice, adding similar tang and moisture. For a non-citrus version, use whole milk.
How should I store this cake?
Store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days. The glaze may become slightly sticky.
Why is my glaze too runny or too thick?
Adjust the consistency by adding more powdered sugar to thicken it or a few more drops of lemon juice to thin it. Add liquid very gradually.
Can I make this cake in advance?
Yes, you can bake the cake 1 day ahead. Store it unglazed and tightly wrapped. Add the glaze just before serving for the best texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the batter: This can develop too much gluten, leading to a tough cake. Mix just until ingredients are combined.
- Using cold ingredients: Ensure eggs are at room temperature for better emulsification and a smoother, more even crumb.
- Spreading preserves to the edge: Leave a small border to prevent the preserves from leaking out and burning during baking.
- Glazing a warm cake: Always let the cake cool completely. Glazing a warm cake will cause the icing to melt and absorb, creating a soggy top.
Conclusion
The Strawberry Honeybun Cake is a delightful fusion of sweet vanilla, warm cinnamon, and tangy strawberry, finished with a bright lemon glaze. It’s a simple yet impressive dessert that bridges the gap between a casual snack and a special occasion treat. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll achieve a moist, flavorful cake every time. We’d love to hear how yours turns out—would you pair this #LemonBerryDelight with coffee or tea? Comment below!