Preparation Steps

• In a small bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
• In a large bowl, whisk together warm milk, sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture and lightly beaten egg. Mix well.
• Gradually add 3.5 cups of flour to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms. Turn out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, adding the remaining flour as needed, until the dough is smooth and elastic. Incorporate the softened butter during the last few minutes of kneading until fully combined.
• Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
• Punch down the dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll the dough into a 12x18-inch rectangle.
• In a small bowl, combine brown sugar and cinnamon for the filling. Brush the rolled-out dough with melted butter. Sprinkle the sugar and cinnamon mixture evenly over the dough.
• Starting from the long side, tightly roll up the dough. Cut the roll into 12 equal slices.
• Place the honey bun slices into a greased 9x13-inch baking pan, cut-side up.
• Cover the pan and let the buns rise for another 30 minutes.
• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
• While the buns are baking, prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together honey, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
• Remove the buns from the oven and immediately drizzle the glaze over the hot buns.
• Let cool slightly before serving.