In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 cups of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of granulated sugar, 2 packets of instant yeast, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Whisk everything together until well mixed.

In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of warm water, ¼ cup of honey, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Blend in ¼ cup of melted shortening.

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredient mixture, mixing until a sticky dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8 minutes.

Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rise for 1 to 2 hours.

Mix together ¼ cup of granulated sugar and 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon in a small bowl.

After the dough has risen, roll it out into a large rectangle. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the surface and roll tightly.

Cut the rolled dough into 12 equal pieces and place them in a prepared baking dish for a final rise.

Let the honey buns rise for another 45 minutes while preheating the oven to 350°F or heating oil.

If baking, place the buns in the oven for 20-25 minutes until golden. If frying, cook each bun for 2-3 minutes per side.

While warm, dip or drizzle with a glaze made from powdered sugar, melted butter, honey, and warm water.

Transfer the warm honey buns to a wire rack to cool slightly before serving.