Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake

Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake is a delightful dessert that perfectly blends the warmth of pumpkin with the sweetness of a honey bun. This cake is ideal for gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply enjoying at home. Its moist texture and gooey brown sugar filling make it a standout treat. Whether served as an afternoon snack or a dessert, this cake is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps and readily available ingredients, this cake comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy bakers.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and spices creates a comforting flavor that warms the soul and delights the taste buds.
• Versatile Dessert: Serve it at breakfast, brunch, or as an after-dinner treat – this cake fits any occasion!
• Gooey Filling: The brown sugar and walnut filling adds a chewy texture that perfectly contrasts with the moist cake.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 12 servings, it’s great for potlucks or family gatherings where everyone can enjoy a slice.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake, you’ll need some essential tools. Being prepared will ensure your baking process goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Electric mixer
• 13×9 inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Streamlines mixing ingredients together, ensuring even consistency in your batter.
• Baking pan: A sturdy 13×9 inch pan allows for even baking and is perfect for this recipe’s serving size.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls helps keep your ingredients organized during preparation.

Ingredients

Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake – a gooey brown sugar and walnut filling in the center of a moist pumpkin cake topped with a simple glaze.

For the Cake:

• 1 box super moist yellow cake mix
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 4 eggs
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 3/4 cup canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie mix)
• 2 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice

For the Filling:

• 3/4 cups brown sugar
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla

How to Make Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease the bottom and sides of your 13×9 inch baking pan to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

In a large bowl, combine the following ingredients:
1. 1 box super moist yellow cake mix
2. 1/2 cup vegetable oil
3. 4 eggs
4. 1/2 cup sour cream
5. 3/4 cup canned pumpkin
6. 2 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice

Beat these ingredients with an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes until just incorporated.

Step 3: Assemble the Cake

Measure out 2 cups of batter and pour it into the bottom of your prepared pan.

In a small bowl, combine:
– 3/4 cups brown sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts

Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the batter in the pan. Next, spoon the remaining batter over the filling and carefully spread it to cover completely.

Step 4: Bake

Place your assembled cake in the oven and bake for approximately 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 5: Prepare the Glaze

While your cake is baking, prepare the glaze by combining in a medium bowl:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla

Whisk these ingredients together until smooth.

Step 6: Glaze and Cool

Once baked, remove your Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake from the oven and let it cool on a cooling rack. Pour the glaze over while it’s still warm, using a spatula to spread it evenly across the top. Allow to cool completely before serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake

Serving Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake is all about enhancing its delicious flavors and textures. This moist and gooey cake pairs beautifully with various accompaniments that elevate your dessert experience.

With Whipped Cream

• A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and fluffy contrast to the dense cake.

With Ice Cream

• Vanilla or cinnamon ice cream serves as a delightful complement, creating a warm and cold sensation in every bite.

Accompanied by Coffee

• Enjoying this cake with a hot cup of coffee brings out the pumpkin spice flavors, making it perfect for breakfast or brunch.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• Adding caramel sauce on top creates an indulgent sweetness that enhances the overall flavor profile of the cake.

Topped with Nuts

• Sprinkling toasted nuts over the glaze provides crunch and additional richness, making each slice even more enjoyable.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake

To ensure your Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake turns out just right, keep these tips in mind:

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bringing eggs and sour cream to room temperature helps create a smoother batter, resulting in a fluffier cake.

• Measure Pumpkin Carefully: Always use canned pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling. This ensures you get the right texture and flavor.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of the desired moistness.

• Check for Doneness Early: Ovens vary, so start checking your cake at 30 minutes. A toothpick should come out clean when the cake is done.

• Cool Before Glazing: Allow the cake to cool completely before adding the glaze. This prevents it from melting off into a puddle.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake can create a well-rounded meal or snack experience. Here are some great options:

1. Spiced Chai Latte: A warm drink that complements the spices in the cake, perfect for cozy gatherings.

2. Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce balances the sweetness of the honey bun cake nicely.

3. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and contrasts well with the rich cake.

4. Cheese Platter: Include creamy cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a savory touch alongside this sweet treat.

5. Pumpkin Soup: Continue with pumpkin flavors by serving a warm bowl of creamy pumpkin soup as an appetizer.

6. Candied Pecans: These sweet nuts make for a crunchy snack that pairs wonderfully with your dessert while adding texture.

7. Apple Cider: Serve chilled or warm apple cider as a festive drink that enhances fall flavors alongside your cake.

8. Chocolate Mousse: For chocolate lovers, pairing this light dessert adds an exciting contrast to the spiced pumpkin flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake can be delightful, but there are common pitfalls to watch for.

• Skipping the oil: Not adding vegetable oil can make your cake dry. Always include it for moisture.
• Using pumpkin pie mix: This mix contains spices and sugars that can alter your recipe. Use plain canned pumpkin instead for the best flavor.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too long leads to a dense cake. Blend just until combined to keep it light and fluffy.
• Ignoring baking times: Every oven is different. Check doneness with a toothpick instead of relying solely on time.
• Not cooling before glazing: Pouring glaze on a hot cake can cause it to melt away. Wait until it’s completely cool for perfect results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The cake will stay fresh for about 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• It freezes well for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place slice on a baking sheet, and heat for 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 20-30 seconds or until warm.
• Stovetop: In a non-stick skillet over low heat, warm the slice covered with a lid for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake.

What makes Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake different from regular cake?

Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake features rich flavors from pumpkin and spices, along with a gooey brown sugar filling that sets it apart from traditional cakes.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin! Just ensure it’s cooked and pureed properly before measuring out the required amount.

How do I know when my Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached when the cake is perfectly baked.

What can I substitute for walnuts in this recipe?

If you’re allergic or prefer not to use nuts, you can replace walnuts with chocolate chips or leave them out entirely for a nut-free version.

Final Thoughts

The Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake is both comforting and versatile, making it perfect for any occasion. You can customize it by adding chocolate chips or different nuts according to your preference. Don’t hesitate to try this delicious recipe that brings warmth and joy to your table!