If you love desserts that are rich, comforting, and irresistibly moist, this Sweet Potato Honey Bun Cake with Pecans will quickly become your new favorite. Combining the natural sweetness of mashed sweet potatoes, the warm spice of cinnamon, and the buttery crunch of pecans, this cake offers an indulgent twist on the classic honey bun flavor — without the need for yeast or frying.
Perfect for Sunday brunches, holiday gatherings, or as a cozy treat with your morning coffee, this cake delivers the ultimate balance of texture and taste. The glaze seeps into every layer, creating a sticky-sweet finish that melts in your mouth.
Ingredients
Serves 10–12
For the Cake:
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- 1 cup mashed cooked sweet potatoes (about 2 medium)
- 3/4 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cinnamon-Pecan Swirl:
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 3/4 cup chopped pecans
Honey Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk or cream
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Bake time: 40 minutes
- Cooling time: 20 minutes
- Total time: About 1 hour, 20 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and lightly dust it with flour or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Make the Batter
- In a large bowl, combine cake mix, mashed sweet potatoes, oil, eggs, sour cream, honey, and vanilla.
- Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until the batter is smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Add the Swirl
- In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, cinnamon, and chopped pecans.
- Pour half of the batter into the pan. Sprinkle the cinnamon-pecan mixture evenly over it, then top with the remaining batter.
- Gently swirl the layers with a knife for a marbled effect.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
- Bake for 38–42 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool for 15–20 minutes before glazing.
Step 5: Prepare and Pour the Glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, honey, and vanilla until smooth.
- Drizzle the glaze over the slightly warm cake, allowing it to soak in for a glossy, sticky finish.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Add extra chopped pecans on top for crunch and presentation.
- Pair with hot coffee or spiced chai for a cozy afternoon treat.
- Slice and freeze leftovers — this cake reheats beautifully in the microwave.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 slice) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 310 |
| Protein | 5 grams |
| Total Fat | 14 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 3 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 42 grams |
| Sugars | 27 grams |
| Fiber | 2 grams |
| Sodium | 270 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Sweet potatoes add fiber, vitamin A, and natural sweetness.
- Pecans provide heart-healthy fats and a nutty crunch.
- Greek yogurt or sour cream keeps the cake moist without excess oil.
- Can be made gluten-free by using a gluten-free cake mix substitute.
Tips for Success
- Use freshly mashed sweet potatoes instead of canned for better texture and flavor.
- Don’t overmix the batter — gentle folding keeps the cake light.
- Let the glaze soak in while the cake is still slightly warm for that signature honey bun stickiness.
- For extra decadence, sprinkle a little sea salt over the glaze for a salted-caramel twist.
Variations to Try
- Add shredded coconut or raisins for tropical flair.
- Substitute maple syrup for honey for a different depth of sweetness.
- Turn the recipe into cupcakes or loaf cakes for easier serving.
- Add cream cheese frosting instead of glaze for a rich, bakery-style version.
This Sweet Potato Honey Bun Cake with Pecans is the perfect marriage of comfort and indulgence. With its caramelized glaze, nutty crunch, and spiced sweetness, every bite delivers warmth and nostalgia. Whether served fresh from the oven or chilled from the fridge, this cake is sure to impress guests and satisfy any dessert craving.
Moist, flavorful, and easy to prepare — it’s a show-stopper for any occasion and proof that sweet potatoes belong in desserts just as much as on dinner plates.