If you’ve been on the lookout for a cozy, show-stopping dessert that perfectly blends the warm flavors of fall with a sweet, sticky finish, this Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake Recipe is pure magic. Imagine a moist pumpkin-spiced cake layered with a cinnamon-swirled brown sugar filling, all topped with a luscious honey glaze that drips just right. Every bite is a celebration of comforting spices, tender crumb, and just enough sweetness that makes this recipe a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. I’m thrilled to share this gem—it’s like a warm hug on your plate and a real winner whether you’re feeding friends, family, or just indulging in some well-deserved fall treats.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake Recipe are simple yet essential, each one bringing its own magic to the final dessert. From the pumpkin puree that keeps the cake moist and colorful, to the cinnamon-brown sugar swirl adding irresistible warmth, every component plays a star role in taste, texture, and visual appeal.
- Yellow cake mix: The base that gives this cake its tender, fluffy crumb with minimal effort.
- Canned pumpkin puree: Adds beautiful moisture and a rich, autumnal flavor that makes this cake feel truly seasonal.
- Vegetable oil: Keeps the cake perfectly soft without overpowering the pumpkin taste.
- Water: Helps balance the batter and keep the texture light.
- Large eggs: Bind everything together, providing structure and richness.
- Brown sugar: The star of the filling, adding deep caramel notes and that classic “honey bun” sweetness.
- Ground cinnamon: Warms up the brown sugar filling with cozy spice, essential for that true honey bun flavor experience.
- Chopped pecans (optional): Crunchy texture and a nutty depth that elevates each bite if you choose to include them.
- Powdered sugar: Forms the base of the smooth, glossy glaze that finishes the cake beautifully.
- Milk: Creates just the right consistency for the glaze, making it creamy without being runny.
- Vanilla extract: Adds a subtle fragrant sweetness to the glaze, balancing the pumpkin and spice perfectly.
- Honey: A drizzle of natural sweetness in the glaze that boosts the signature honey bun character.
How to Make Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Start by heating your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan thoroughly to ensure your cake releases easily once baked—this little prep step makes a world of difference.
Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter
Grab a large mixing bowl and combine the yellow cake mix, pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, water, and eggs. Beat on medium speed until your batter is smooth, creamy, and fully blended. This mixture forms the moist and flavorful backbone of your Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake Recipe.
Step 3: Prepare the Cinnamon Brown Sugar Filling
In a separate bowl, stir together brown sugar and ground cinnamon. If you’re feeling nutty, toss in the chopped pecans here. This mixture is where the magic happens, woven through the cake to add layers of sweet spice and texture.
Step 4: Layer the Batter and Filling
Pour half of your cake batter into the greased pan, spreading it evenly. Then sprinkle your cinnamon sugar (and nut) mixture evenly on top for that melt-in-your-mouth filling.
Step 5: Add the Remaining Batter and Create Swirls
Gently pour the remaining batter over the cinnamon sugar layer. Use a knife to carefully swirl the layers together, creating those signature marbled patterns that make this cake so visually inviting.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Perfectly Set
Pop your pan into the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick poked into the center comes out clean, and your kitchen smells like fall heaven.
Step 7: Whisk Together the Glaze
While your cake is baking, mix the powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and honey in a bowl. Whisk until smooth and glossy. This glaze will turn your pumpkin cake into the “honey bun” it was always meant to be.
Step 8: Glaze and Cool
Once the cake cools for about 10 minutes, drizzle the glaze evenly over the warm cake. Let it settle and harden just enough to create a perfect sticky finish before slicing.
How to Serve Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing your Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake Recipe adds an extra layer of delectable charm. Consider sprinkling a few toasted pecans or a light dusting of cinnamon on top of the glaze. For a festive touch, a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream pairs beautifully.
Side Dishes
This cake stands well on its own but can be wonderfully complemented by a simple cup of spiced chai or freshly brewed coffee. If you want to elevate your spread, serve it alongside roasted autumn fruits like caramelized apples or pears for a complete seasonal experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow your guests? Cut the cake into bite-sized squares and serve them on a decorative platter dusted with cinnamon sugar. Or layer pieces between plates with a swipe of cream cheese frosting for a cake stack that looks as good as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Keeping it sealed ensures the glaze remains sticky and the cake stays tender and moist.
Freezing
This cake also freezes well! Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen slices can be stored for up to 2 months, ready to thaw for a quick sweet fix later.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, warm slices briefly in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or until just heated through. This brings back the cake’s soft texture and intensifies the lovely honey glaze flavor.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?
Absolutely! If using fresh pumpkin, roast and puree it well until smooth. Keep in mind fresh pumpkin has more water content, so you might want to reduce the water slightly in the recipe to maintain the perfect cake consistency.
Do I have to use a yellow cake mix?
While the yellow cake mix simplifies this recipe beautifully, you can use a homemade yellow cake batter or even a white cake mix. Just be careful to adjust wet ingredients as needed since mixes vary in absorbency.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes! Choose a gluten-free yellow cake mix to make this Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake Recipe accessible for gluten-sensitive guests. Just ensure your other ingredients are certified gluten-free as well.
Is it necessary to use pecans in the filling?
Pecans are optional and provide a crunchy contrast, but you can easily skip them if you prefer a nut-free version or swap them for walnuts or even chocolate chips for a fun twist.
How long does the glaze stay fresh on the cake?
The glaze stays sticky and fresh for about 2 days when the cake is stored properly at room temperature in an airtight container. For best texture, enjoy it fresh or within that window.
Final Thoughts
This Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake Recipe is truly one of those nostalgic desserts that feels like a warm embrace on a plate. It’s easy enough to whip up on a weeknight yet special enough to impress at holiday gatherings or weekend brunches. Trust me, once you make it, this will become your go-to fall treat. So grab your ingredients, get swirling, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this irresistible slice of autumn joy!
Print
Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake is a deliciously moist and flavorful dessert that combines the warm spices of cinnamon and pumpkin with a sweet brown sugar swirl, topped off with a smooth honey glaze. Perfect for seasonal gatherings or cozy nights, this easy-to-make cake uses a simple yellow cake mix and pantry staples for a wonderful fall treat.
Ingredients
Cake Batter
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 3/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup water
- 4 large eggs
Brown Sugar Cinnamon Swirl
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Glaze
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons honey
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
- Make Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, water, and eggs. Beat on medium speed until the batter is smooth and well combined.
- Prepare Brown Sugar Mixture: In a separate bowl, mix together the brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Stir in the chopped pecans if using, for added texture and flavor.
- Layer Batter and Sugar: Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly to form the first layer.
- Add Brown Sugar Layer: Evenly sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture over the first cake batter layer.
- Top with Remaining Batter: Pour the remaining cake batter over the brown sugar mixture, spreading gently to cover the entire surface.
- Create Swirl Effect: Use a knife to gently swirl the batter and brown sugar layers, creating a beautiful marbled effect throughout the cake.
- Bake the Cake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Prepare the Glaze: While the cake bakes, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and honey in a bowl until the glaze is smooth and well combined.
- Cool and Glaze: When the cake is done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes, then pour the glaze evenly over the warm cake.
- Set and Serve: Let the glaze set for a few minutes before slicing and serving your delicious pumpkin honey bun cake.
Notes
- Chopped pecans are optional but add a nice crunch and flavor.
- You can substitute milk with a dairy-free alternative to make it lactose-free.
- Ensure not to overmix the cake batter to maintain a tender crumb.
- For deeper spice flavor, consider adding 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg or allspice to the brown sugar mixture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
