Print

Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake Recipe

4.7 from 132 reviews

A moist and flavorful Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake that combines pumpkin purée and cinnamon sugar with a classic cake mix, baked to perfection and drizzled with a sweet glaze for an irresistible treat perfect for fall gatherings or any time you crave a cozy dessert.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup pumpkin purée
  • 1 box yellow cake mix (approximately 15.25 oz)
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cinnamon Sugar Swirl

  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Honey Glaze

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 23 tablespoons milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin purée, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add the yellow cake mix and stir until just combined, making sure not to overmix.
  2. Create the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture: In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Set aside.
  3. Layer the Cake: Pour half of the batter into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the batter. Pour the remaining batter on top, then sprinkle the remaining cinnamon sugar over the batter. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the cinnamon sugar through the batter creating a cinnamon swirl effect.
  4. Bake the Cake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
  5. Make the Honey Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, honey, vanilla extract, and enough milk to reach a drizzling consistency.
  6. Glaze the Cake: Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the honey glaze evenly over the top. Allow the glaze to set for about 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Use canned pumpkin purée for convenience, not pumpkin pie filling.
  • For a richer flavor, substitute the vegetable oil with melted butter.
  • Store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
  • For added texture, sprinkle chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts in the cinnamon sugar layers.
  • This cake can be served warm or at room temperature.

Keywords: Pumpkin cake, honey bun cake, cinnamon swirl, fall dessert, easy cake recipe, pumpkin dessert