Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake Recipe with Cinnamon Glaze

Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake – Decadent Fall Dessert Recipe

Author: Patricia

Description

Enjoy a cozy baking project with this Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake — a moist, spice-forward sheet cake layered with cinnamon-sugar and finished with a silky cinnamon glaze. This recipe captures the best fall flavors: pumpkin, warm spices, and caramelized brown sugar. It’s simple enough for weeknight baking yet special enough for gatherings and holiday dessert tables. The cake is rich and tender, with a swirl-like filling that gives every bite a sweet, slightly crunchy texture when pecans are added.

Ingredients

Cake:

1 box spice cake mix
4 large eggs
1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
3/4 cup vegetable oil (or melted butter/coconut oil)
1 cup packed brown sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)

Cinnamon Glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar
2–3 tablespoons milk
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Substitution notes: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a similar tang. Replace vegetable oil with melted butter or coconut oil for a more buttery flavor. Swap pecans for walnuts or omit nuts for a nut-free cake.

Instructions

Preheat and prepare: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
Make the batter: In a large bowl, combine the spice cake mix, eggs, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), and vegetable oil. Beat until the mixture is smooth and there are no lumps.
First layer: Spread half of the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
Make the filling: In a small bowl, stir together the packed brown sugar, cinnamon, and chopped pecans (if using).
Add filling: Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter, distributing it evenly.
Top with remaining batter: Pour the rest of the batter over the filling and spread to form an even layer.
Finish the top: Sprinkle the remaining cinnamon-sugar mixture over the top layer of batter.
Bake: Bake for 45–50 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
Prepare the glaze: While the cake cools slightly, whisk the powdered sugar, milk, cinnamon, and vanilla until smooth. Adjust milk to reach a drizzleable consistency.
Glaze and serve: Drizzle the glaze over the warm cake. Let the cake cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing so the glaze sets slightly.

Notes & Tips

Use quality ingredients: Fresh eggs and good spices make a noticeable difference in flavor.
Adjust glaze sweetness: If you prefer a less-sweet finish, reduce the powdered sugar or add more milk to thin it out.
Watch your oven: Oven temperatures vary. Start checking for doneness at 40 minutes to avoid overbaking.
Texture tips: For a slightly richer cake, swap half the oil for melted butter. For a lighter crumb, be careful not to overmix once eggs are added.
Serving ideas: Serve warm with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or alongside a mug of coffee or chai for a complete fall treat.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: 320 kcal
Fat: 18 g
Saturated Fat: 3 g
Carbohydrates: 37 g
Protein: 3 g
Fiber: 1 g

Storage & Leftovers

Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Refrigerate: Keep covered in the fridge for up to a week; bring to room temperature or warm briefly before serving.
Freeze: Wrap individual slices tightly and freeze in a freezer-safe container. Thaw at room temperature or heat briefly in the microwave for a warm slice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use pumpkin pie mix instead of spice cake mix?
No. A spice cake mix provides both structure and a balanced blend of spices. Substituting with pumpkin pie mix will significantly change texture and flavor.
What can substitute for sour cream?
Greek yogurt is an excellent substitute and gives a similar tang and moisture.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes. Use a gluten-free spice cake mix to adapt this recipe for gluten-intolerant guests.
How do I thicken the glaze?
Add more powdered sugar a little at a time until it reaches the desired thickness.

Related Recipes

Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Roll Cake – Decadent Dessert Recipe
Pineapple Juice Bundt Cake Recipe | Easy Tropical Dessert

Conclusion

This Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake is a warm, comforting dessert that highlights the best of fall baking: spices, rich brown sugar, and a tender crumb. It’s easy to make, shares beautifully, and adapts well to swaps like Greek yogurt or different nuts. Make it for brunch, a potluck, or a holiday table — and enjoy the cozy flavors of the season.