01 -
Whisk together the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt in a large bowl. Set aside.
02 -
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the warm water, honey, egg, and vanilla extract until the egg is well combined. Add the melted shortening and mix until fully incorporated.
03 -
Using a stand mixer with a dough hook, add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients. Mix on low speed until fully combined, then knead on medium speed for 8 minutes until the dough is sticky but workable.
04 -
Shape the dough into a ball and place it into a lightly oiled glass bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm, draft-free area for 1 to 2 hours until nearly doubled in size.
05 -
While the dough rises, whisk together the cinnamon and sugar in a small bowl. Set aside.
06 -
Turn the risen dough onto a lightly floured surface. Roll into a 12-inch by 8-inch rectangle. Evenly sprinkle with the cinnamon sugar, leaving a clean edge. Press gently to adhere.
07 -
Roll up the dough lengthwise toward the clean edge and seal with water. Slice off the ends and cut into eight 1-inch pieces. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing 2 inches apart. Gently press and shape each piece slightly. Let rise for another 45 minutes until puffy.
08 -
Heat oil in a deep pan to 365°F, ensuring at least 3 inches of depth. Use a thermometer to maintain temperature.
09 -
In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, honey, melted butter, vanilla, and salt. Gradually add warm water, whisking until smooth with a desired consistency.
10 -
Gently press the risen buns and fry in hot oil for 90 seconds per side until golden brown. Remove to a wire rack over paper towels.
11 -
Dip each fried bun into the prepared glaze and return to the cooling rack to set. Repeat with remaining buns.
12 -
Preheat oven to 350°F. Place risen buns on the lower rack and bake for 18 minutes until golden brown. Rest for 5 minutes, then glaze and cool on a rack.