Name: Honey Bun Cake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box golden butter cake mix (or yellow cake mix); 1 cup butter, softened; 4 large eggs; 1 cup sour cream; ½ cup brown sugar (packed); ½ cup pecans, chopped; 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, divided; ½ cup cake mix (reserved from the box); 1 cup powdered sugar; 3-4 tablespoons heavy cream; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 21 reviews

If you are looking for a dessert that dazzles with layers of buttery goodness and a swirl of sweet cinnamon and pecans, then this Honey Bun Cake Recipe is about to become your new best friend. This cake combines the ease of a box mix with the rich, homemade flavors of cinnamon sugar and pecans, all crowned with a luscious cinnamon glaze. It’s a warm, comforting treat that feels like a hug on a plate and perfect for sharing at any gathering or enjoying with a cozy cup of coffee.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up image shows a metal mixing bowl with several ingredients inside, ready to be mixed with a hand mixer whose beaters are partially immersed. Inside the bowl, there are two bright orange egg yolks positioned near the right side, light yellow soft butter chunks placed closer to the left, a mound of white flour on the left side, and thick white cream or yogurt at the front. The woman's hand is holding the mixing tool, which is white with metal beaters. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering simple, accessible ingredients is the first step to baking this irresistible Honey Bun Cake Recipe. Each ingredient plays a key role in creating the perfect balance of texture, sweetness, and that signature cinnamon-pecan flavor.

Golden butter cake mix: This forms the soft, fluffy base of the cake with a lovely buttery flavor and golden color.
Butter (1 cup, softened): Adds richness and moisture, ensuring the cake is tender and decadent.
Large eggs (4): These give structure and help bind everything together smoothly.
Sour cream (1 cup): Provides a slight tang and keeps the cake incredibly moist and tender.
Brown sugar (½ cup, packed): Infuses the filling with deep, caramel-like sweetness and moisture.
Pecans (½ cup, chopped): Adds delightful crunch and a nutty flavor that balances the sweetness.
Ground cinnamon (2 teaspoons, divided): Brings warmth and that unmistakable honey bun quality to the cake.
Powdered sugar (1 cup): Used in the glaze for a smooth, sweet finish.
Heavy cream (3-4 tablespoons): Adjusts the consistency of the glaze for that perfect spreadable texture.

How to Make Honey Bun Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures your oven will be perfectly hot and ready for the cake, guaranteeing even baking. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish generously with non-stick cooking spray; this will make it super easy to remove the cake once baked and maintain that beautiful crust.

Step 2: Set Aside a Bit of Cake Mix

Reserve ½ cup of the dry cake mix to use later in creating the delicious cinnamon pecan filling. Setting this aside early keeps your workflow smooth and the flavors perfectly balanced.

Step 3: Make the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the remaining cake mix, softened butter, eggs, and sour cream. Using an electric mixer, blend these ingredients together just until the batter is smooth and uniform. This step ensures a tender crumb without overmixing, which can make cakes tough.

Step 4: Layer the Batter

Spread half of the prepared batter evenly into the bottom of your greased baking dish. This creates the base layer that will encase the glorious filling we’re about to add.

Step 5: Prepare the Cinnamon Pecan Filling

Mix the reserved ½ cup of dry cake mix, brown sugar, chopped pecans, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon in a small bowl. This mixture combines sweetness, spice, and crunch, making it the heart of what makes this Honey Bun Cake Recipe so special. Sprinkle it evenly over the batter in the pan.

Step 6: Add the Remaining Batter

Dollop the rest of the cake batter over the pecan filling. Using a spatula, gently spread and cover the filling as best you can. This layering creates delightful pockets of cinnamon and nuts throughout the cake as it bakes.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Place the cake in the oven and bake for about 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown with a caramelized pecan topping. The aroma alone will have your whole kitchen feeling like a cozy bakery.

Step 8: Make the Cinnamon Glaze

Mix the remaining teaspoon of cinnamon, powdered sugar, and 3 tablespoons of heavy cream until smooth. If it seems too thick, add a little more cream until it reaches a thick but pourable consistency. The glaze is the perfect sweet, creamy finish that ties all the flavors together.

Step 9: Frost and Serve

Spread the cinnamon glaze evenly over the warm cake. Cut into squares once slightly cooled and get ready to fall in love with this delightfully cozy dessert.

How to Serve Honey Bun Cake Recipe

A white rectangular baking dish holds a square cake with two visible layers; the bottom layer is pale yellow with a soft texture, the middle layer is a darker brown filling that looks moist and slightly crumbly, and the cake is topped with a smooth, light brown glaze that spreads evenly across the surface, with a small corner piece removed to reveal the layers inside. The background features a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Enhance each serving by sprinkling a few extra chopped pecans on top or a light dusting of cinnamon to echo the warm spice notes. For an added touch of freshness, a small dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of honey can elevate the presentation and flavor beautifully.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with hot beverages like coffee, chai tea, or even a creamy latte, balancing its sweetness perfectly. For a brunch spread, consider serving it alongside fresh fruit salad or creamy yogurt to contrast the cake’s richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the cake into smaller squares and serve on individual plates with a sprig of mint for a pop of color or place the cake on a rustic wooden board for a charming, homey look. For parties, cut into bite-sized pieces and place on skewers with fresh berries for a fun and elegant twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Honey Bun Cake tastes fantastic the next day as the flavors meld beautifully overnight. Store leftovers tightly covered at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerated for up to a week, ensuring it stays moist and fresh.

Freezing

If you want to keep your Honey Bun Cake Recipe longer, you can freeze it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator for best texture.

Reheating

To bring back that fresh-baked warmth, reheat slices gently in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or until warm. This softens the cake and reactivates the glaze, making it taste as good as freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cake mix for this recipe?

While a golden butter or yellow cake mix is recommended for its buttery flavor, you can experiment with other cake mixes like vanilla or even spice cake to add a unique twist. Just keep in mind how it might alter the final flavor.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use a gluten-free yellow cake mix and ensure that other ingredients, such as baking sprays or pecans, are certified gluten-free. This way, you can still enjoy the rich cinnamon and buttery flavor safely.

How do I prevent the filling from sinking to the bottom?

By reserving part of the dry cake mix and mixing it with the filling, it helps absorb some moisture and keeps the pecan-sugar layer stable during baking, preventing it from sinking.

Can I add other nuts besides pecans?

Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds work wonderfully in this recipe, providing a nice crunch and complementing the cinnamon sweetness.

What’s the best temperature to bake Honey Bun Cake Recipe?

350 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal as it allows the cake to bake evenly and develop a beautiful golden color without drying out the moist interior.

Final Thoughts

This Honey Bun Cake Recipe is a joyful blend of simplicity and indulgence that anyone can make at home. It’s perfect for when you want a comforting, crowd-pleasing dessert with minimal fuss. I encourage you to try it out, gather your loved ones, and watch it disappear in no time—you’ll find it’s one of those recipes you’ll come back to again and again.