Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that radiates cozy autumn vibes and delivers comforting sweetness in every bite, you have to try the Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake. This luscious treat takes the ease of a box cake mix and transforms it into something absolutely magical with the addition of pumpkin puree and a cinnamon-sugary swirl. Finished with a silky vanilla glaze that seeps into every nook and cranny, this Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake is the perfect centerpiece for your fall gatherings or a delightful anytime indulgence that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake lies in its simplicity. With straightforward ingredients, each one plays a crucial role, from adding moisture and spice to bringing that signature golden color and sweet glaze finish.

• Duncan Hines yellow cake mix: A trusty base that ensures a soft, tender crumb without extra fuss.
• Vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and supple for days.
• Large eggs: Provide richness and help bind everything perfectly.
• Pure pumpkin puree: The star ingredient that imparts that autumnal flavor and natural moisture.
• Light brown sugar, packed: Adds depth with its subtle molasses note, enhancing the cake’s sweetness.
• Pumpkin pie spice: Or just ground cinnamon if you prefer, this warms the cake with classic fall spices.
• Powdered sugar: Essential for creating the smooth, sweet glaze.
• Milk: Adjusted for your desired glaze thickness, it blends everything together effortlessly.
• Vanilla extract: A splash of warmth and complexity for the glaze’s flavor.

How to Make Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F because a properly heated oven is the foundation of any great bake. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray, ensuring your cake releases smoothly once baked.

Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter

In a large bowl, combine the Duncan Hines yellow cake mix, vegetable oil, eggs, and pumpkin puree. Beat the mixture for about two smooth minutes — this not only blends but aerates your batter, making it fluffy and evenly textured.

Step 3: Create the Cinnamon Sugar Swirl

In a separate small bowl, stir together the brown sugar and pumpkin pie spice until it’s perfectly combined. This mixture will add that characteristic swirled sweetness and spice, reminiscent of the best honey buns.

Step 4: Layer Your Cake

Pour half of your batter into the prepared pan, smoothing it evenly to create a flat base. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture generously on top—this layer is what infuses the cake with sweetness and that gorgeous speckled appearance once baked. Gently pour the remaining batter over this, smoothing it out carefully so you don’t disturb the cinnamon-sugar layer.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake your cake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This timing allows the flavors to meld and the cake to set with a tender crumb that’s not overly dense.

Step 6: Glaze with Love

While the cake is still warm, poke holes all over its surface with a fork — this step is optional but incredibly worth it because the glaze will seep deep into the cake, making it irresistibly moist and flavorful. Then whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a medium bowl until smooth. Pour this luscious glaze evenly over the cake, letting it soak in and set as the cake cools.

How to Serve Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake

Garnishes

To elevate your slice, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg on top right before serving, or add a light dusting of powdered sugar for a delicate, pretty finish. Toasted pecans or chopped walnuts on the glaze add a wonderful crunch and nutty contrast.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to add creamy richness. For a cozy beverage, a hot cup of chai tea or spiced coffee perfectly complements the warm spices of the Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake in individual ramekins topped with the glaze and a drizzle of honey for a personal touch. Alternatively, transform slices into adorable mini trifle cups layered with whipped cream and crushed gingersnaps for a festive presentation that will impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake tightly with plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container. Stored this way, it will stay moist and fresh at room temperature for up to three days, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy the Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake later, you can freeze individual slices or the whole cake. Wrap the pieces well in foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results before serving.

Reheating

To bring back that freshly baked warmth, reheat slices gently in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. This quick step revives the cake’s soft texture and brings out the fragrance of pumpkin and spices brilliantly.

FAQs

Can I use a different cake mix besides Duncan Hines yellow cake mix?

Absolutely! While Duncan Hines yellow cake mix works wonderfully here, you can use any yellow or vanilla cake mix you prefer. Just know that different brands might have slight variations in sweetness or texture.

Is the pumpkin pie spice necessary, or can I use just cinnamon?

Using just cinnamon works fine if that’s what you have, but pumpkin pie spice adds a blend of warm spices like nutmeg and cloves that truly elevate the flavor and make the cake taste like fall in every bite.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, substitute your regular cake mix with a gluten-free yellow cake mix, and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free. The pumpkin and glaze pair beautifully, so it will still be delicious.

What can I use instead of vegetable oil?

You can swap vegetable oil with melted coconut oil or a mild-tasting olive oil for a slightly different flavor and similar moist texture. Just use the same amount as called for in the recipe.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the batter?

Definitely! Adding chopped pecans, walnuts, or even chocolate chips will give your Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake a delightful surprise in texture and flavor. Just fold them gently into the batter before baking.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake is one of those desserts that feel like an instant favorite, combining effortless preparation with rich, comforting flavors. Whether you’re new to pumpkin desserts or a seasoned fan, this recipe is sure to bring joy and warmth to your kitchen. I can’t wait for you to make it and share it with your loved ones — it’s truly a slice of autumn happiness that’s easy to fall in love with.

Print