Name: Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box Duncan Hines yellow cake mix (do not follow box quantities); 2/3 cup vegetable oil; 4 large eggs; 1 cup pure pumpkin puree; 1 cup light brown sugar, packed; 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice (or ground cinnamon); 2 cups powdered sugar; 4-6 tablespoons milk (use less for a thicker glaze); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Jump to Recipe

If you’ve been searching for the ultimate comfort dessert that blends the cozy flavors of fall with a sweet, irresistible twist, let me introduce you to the Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake. This delightfully moist and richly spiced cake brings together tender pumpkin puree, warm cinnamon notes, and a luscious honey-sweet glaze that trickles through every bite. The beauty of this Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake lies not only in its decadent taste but also in its simplicity—making it a perfect treat to share with family, friends, or to indulge in on a quiet evening. Once you try it, I guarantee it will quickly become one of your go-to desserts for the season!

Ingredients You’ll Need

It’s amazing how a handful of simple ingredients can transform into such an extraordinary cake. Each element has a special role: the pumpkin puree keeps it moist and vibrant, the brown sugar adds a caramel-like depth, and the pumpkin pie spice brings that iconic autumn warmth. Together, they create magic.

Duncan Hines yellow cake mix: The base that gives this cake its tender crumb and classic structure.
Vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist without overpowering the pumpkin flavor.
Large eggs: Provide richness and help bind all the ingredients together beautifully.
Pure pumpkin puree: Adds moisture, a natural sweetness, and that unmistakable fall flavor.
Light brown sugar: Packed to bring caramel notes and a touch of chewiness to the topping.
Pumpkin pie spice: Or just ground cinnamon, to warm up the whole cake with cozy spice.
Powdered sugar: The key ingredient in the glaze, adding sweetness and smoothness.
Milk: Adjusted to get your glaze just the right thickness—thicker for draping, thinner for drizzling.
Vanilla extract: A subtle hint that perfectly rounds out the glaze’s flavor.

How to Make Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Give a 9×13-inch baking dish a good spray with cooking spray to ensure your cake releases easily without sticking. This step might seem small, but it sets the foundation for a clean presentation and hassle-free serving.

Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter

Into a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, vegetable oil, eggs, and pumpkin puree. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat everything until the batter is smooth and evenly blended, about two minutes. This pumpkin-infused batter is the canvas for all those delicious layers to come.

Step 3: Prepare the Brown Sugar Spice Mixture

In a small bowl, mix the packed light brown sugar with pumpkin pie spice. This mixture will become the enchanting “cinnamon sugar” layer that makes the cake so special. It’s the sweet, spiced surprise nestled right in the middle!

Step 4: Layer the Batter and Topping

Pour half of the cake batter evenly into the prepared baking dish and smooth it out. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the batter like a generous layer of flavor waiting to be baked in. Then, carefully spread the remaining batter on top, keeping everything neat and even for a perfect rise.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide the cake into the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma that fills your kitchen now is seriously unbeatable—warm spices and pumpkin all coming together in harmony.

Step 6: Add the Glaze

Once out of the oven, use a fork to poke holes all over the surface of the cake. This clever trick allows the glaze to seep into the cake, making it incredibly moist and extra delicious. While the cake cools, whisk together powdered sugar, milk (start with 4 tablespoons for thicker glaze), and vanilla extract until smooth. Pour this sweet nectar evenly over the cake and let it set at room temperature. Revel in the anticipation while the glaze soaks in!

How to Serve Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake

Garnishes

To really elevate your Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake, try dusting the top with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg just before serving. A few toasted pecans or a dollop of whipped cream also add delightful texture contrasts and creamy richness.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a warm mug of spiced chai tea. If you want breakfast vibes, a creamy latte or a fresh fruit salad turns this dessert into a moment of pure joy anytime.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party or special occasion, cut the cake into small squares and place them on pretty dessert plates. Drizzle additional glaze artistically over the slices or serve the glaze on the side for dipping. You can even layer pieces in a trifle with whipped cream for a show-stopping presentation that will wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake will keep wonderfully stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you live in warmer or more humid climates, refrigerate it to maintain freshness and prevent the glaze from becoming overly sticky.

Freezing

Feel free to freeze this cake for longer storage! Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll hold up well for about two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

To warm up your cake, microwave a single slice for 15-20 seconds or heat it gently in the oven at 300°F for 10 minutes. This brings back that freshly baked feeling, and the glaze will soften into silky gooey goodness once again.

FAQs

Can I use a homemade cake mix instead of the boxed mix?

Absolutely! While the boxed yellow cake mix makes this recipe quick and foolproof, a homemade yellow cake batter will work just as well and give you more control over the ingredients.

What if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice?

No worries! You can simply use ground cinnamon on its own, or mix equal parts cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger to mimic that classic pumpkin pie spice flavor.

Is the glaze necessary? Can I skip it?

The glaze is what makes this Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake shine, adding a silky sweetness and moisture boost. You can skip it if you prefer, but you’ll miss out on some of that signature sticky, luscious texture.

Can I substitute the pumpkin puree with sweet potato?

Yes, sweet potato puree is a great alternative and will add a slightly different, earthy sweetness, but keep the same quantity for the best results.

How do I prevent the cake from getting too dense?

Make sure not to overmix the batter once the wet and dry ingredients combine. Mixing until just smooth is ideal, and ensure your eggs and pumpkin puree are room temperature before mixing for the fluffiest texture.

Final Thoughts

Delighting in a slice of Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake is like wrapping yourself in a warm, sweet hug—comforting, nostalgic, and simply irresistible. Whether you’re baking it for a holiday gathering or a quiet treat, this cake never fails to bring smiles and compliments. I hope you give this recipe a try soon and find that it quickly becomes one of your cherished favorites too!

Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 18 reviews

Author: Elara
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake is a moist and flavorful dessert made with pumpkin puree, warm spices, and a sweet cinnamon-sugar swirl, topped with a smooth vanilla glaze. Perfect for fall gatherings or anytime you crave a spiced, comforting cake.

Ingredients

Scale

Cake Batter

1 box Duncan Hines yellow cake mix (do not follow box quantities)
2/3 cup vegetable oil
4 large eggs
1 cup pure pumpkin puree

Cinnamon Sugar Swirl

1 cup light brown sugar, packed
1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice (or ground cinnamon)

Glaze

2 cups powdered sugar
4–6 tablespoons milk (use less for a thicker glaze)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray and set it aside.
Mix Cake Batter: In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, vegetable oil, eggs, and pumpkin puree. Beat the mixture for about 2 minutes until it is fully combined and smooth.
Make Cinnamon Sugar: In a small bowl, stir together the light brown sugar and pumpkin pie spice (or cinnamon) to create the cinnamon sugar swirl.
Layer Batter and Cinnamon Sugar: Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth it out evenly. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture all over the top of this layer.
Top with Remaining Batter: Carefully smooth the remaining cake batter over the cinnamon sugar, making sure it covers evenly without mixing too much.
Bake the Cake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Optional Poke Holes: Using a fork, poke holes all over the warm cake to allow the glaze to seep deeper, adding moisture. This step is optional and can be skipped if you prefer a smooth top.
Prepare the Glaze: In a medium bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk (start with 4 tablespoons and add more if needed), and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust milk quantity for desired thickness.
Apply the Glaze: Pour the glaze evenly over the cake, covering the entire surface to ensure every bite is sweet and moist.
Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool to room temperature so the glaze can set fully. Once set, slice and serve your delicious pumpkin honey bun cake.

Notes

Use pumpkin puree and not pumpkin pie filling to avoid extra sweetness and spices.
The glaze consistency can be adjusted by adding more or less milk according to preference.
Poking holes in the cake is optional but helps the glaze penetrate and keep the cake moist.
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
This cake pairs well with a cup of coffee or spiced tea.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American