Step 1

In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment combine water, 2 teaspoons of sugar, and yeast. Whisk together until just combined, then let sit for 5 minutes, until frothy.

Step 2

Swap the attachment to a dough hook, then add in remaining sugar, flour, honey, shortening, egg yolks, vanilla, and salt. Knead on medium speed for 8 minutes. The dough will be sticky once finished, but when stretched it should hold and be transparent.

Step 3

Transfer the dough into a clean bowl that has been lightly sprayed with baking spray and cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let rise for 1 hour, until doubled in size.

Step 4

While the dough is rising, make the cinnamon sugar. In a small bowl, whisk to combine the cinnamon and sugar.

Step 5

Once the dough has risen, turn it out onto a lightly floured, clean surface. Roll the dough out to 12” long and 8” wide. Dust with the cinnamon sugar mixture and gently press into the dough.

Step 6

Roll the dough up from the long side, then turn the roll diagonally. Use a knife to score 8-1” pieces. Cut the ends of the rolls off, about 1 1⁄2”, then cut the pieces you scored. Lay each piece onto a parchment-lined baking sheet with at least 2” space between them. The pieces should be oblong in shape. Press and lightly shape each one with your fingers, then let rise for about 45 minutes - until puffy, but not doubled.

Step 7

Part of the way through the rise time, pour oil into a large pan or stockpot. Heat over medium heat, until the oil reaches 285°F. Once the rolls have risen, gently press them down again with your fingers, then place a few honey buns into the hot oil, making sure not to crowd the pan. Fry for 90 seconds on one side, then flip and fry for an additional 90 seconds on the other side.

Step 8

While the buns are frying, whisk together the glaze. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk to combine the powdered sugar, honey, melted butter, vanilla, and salt. Whisk until smooth, then add in the hot water until the desired consistency is achieved.

Step 9

Once honey buns are golden brown on each side, remove them from the oil and place onto a wire cooling rack over a paper towel-lined baking sheet. Gently press down to flatten and then immediately dip each bun into the glaze. This will give it that crisp texture once set.

Step 10

Repeat the frying process with any remaining honey buns.