If you’re looking for a dessert that channels both Southern warmth and comforting nostalgia, look no further than the Sweet Potato Honeybun Cake with Pecans & Grated Sweet Potato Icing. This showstopping treat weaves together the earthy richness of sweet potatoes, the nutty crunch of pecans, and a swirl of cinnamon sugar—all topped with the most unique sweet potato-flecked icing. It’s the kind of bake that transforms a simple moment into something memorable, perfect for both holidays and laid-back afternoons.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Sweet Potato Honeybun Cake with Pecans & Grated Sweet Potato Icing comes together with simple ingredients you probably already have, yet each one brings something special to the table. Every addition—whether it’s a dash of nutmeg or a drizzle of honey—elevates the final flavor and creates a cake that’s both familiar and fresh.
- Yellow cake mix: Your shortcut to a fluffy, tender crumb without any fuss.
- Mashed cooked sweet potato (cooled): Adds natural sweetness, moisture, and gorgeous color.
- Large eggs: Essential for binding the batter and giving the cake structure.
- Sour cream: Brings tangy richness and that irresistible softness.
- Vegetable oil: Keeps the crumb extra moist with a neutral, clean flavor.
- Honey: Infuses floral sweetness and helps keep the cake tender.
- Ground cinnamon: Delivers warmth and coziness to every bite.
- Ground nutmeg: A little goes a long way for a classic autumn aroma.
- Chopped pecans: Adds buttery crunch inside and out.
- Brown sugar (for filling): Creates that honeybun swirl and caramel-like depth.
- Cinnamon (for filling): Bold flavor to make the swirl stand out.
- Chopped pecans (for filling): Lends even more crunch layered in the cake.
- Grated raw sweet potato (for icing): Speckles the icing with color and flavor, a signature twist!
- Unsalted butter (for icing): Forms the creamy base of the icing.
- Powdered sugar (for icing): Provides sweetness and structure for spreading.
- Milk (for icing): Adjusts the texture for easy application.
- Vanilla extract (for icing): Rounds out all the sweet notes with pure vanilla.
- Pinch of salt (for icing): Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
How to Make Sweet Potato Honeybun Cake with Pecans & Grated Sweet Potato Icing
Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Preheat
Set yourself up for success by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously greasing and flouring a 9×13-inch baking pan. This ensures the Sweet Potato Honeybun Cake with Pecans & Grated Sweet Potato Icing releases cleanly, showing off those beautiful swirls.
Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the box of yellow cake mix, mashed sweet potato, eggs, sour cream, vegetable oil, honey, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir until the batter is smooth and evenly blended. Fold in the chopped pecans, making sure every bite will get a little crunch.
Step 3: Make the Filling
In a separate small bowl, stir together the brown sugar, cinnamon, and chopped pecans for the ultimate honeybun swirl. This filling will nestle into the center of your cake, creating a gooey, spiced surprise.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
Pour half of the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it into an even layer. Sprinkle the entire filling mixture evenly over the top. Spoon the remaining batter over and gently spread so it covers the filling. Take a butter knife and swirl the layers lightly, so you get a ribbon effect without fully mixing them together.
Step 5: Bake
Place your pan in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. To test for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean or with just a couple of moist crumbs, you’re ready! Let your Sweet Potato Honeybun Cake with Pecans & Grated Sweet Potato Icing cool slightly in the pan to make icing a breeze.
Step 6: Make the Grated Sweet Potato Icing
Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the grated sweet potato and cook while stirring for about 2-3 minutes, just until slightly softened—it should still have a bit of texture. In a mixing bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, vanilla, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Stir in your cooked grated sweet potato, then adjust with a splash of milk if needed for the perfect spreadable consistency.
Step 7: Ice and Finish
Spread the icing generously over your warm cake, letting it gently melt into the nooks and crannies. For the best Sweet Potato Honeybun Cake with Pecans & Grated Sweet Potato Icing experience, allow the icing to set before slicing and serving.
How to Serve Sweet Potato Honeybun Cake with Pecans & Grated Sweet Potato Icing
Garnishes
Elevate your slices with a final scattering of toasted chopped pecans or a light dusting of cinnamon on top of the icing. A few fresh sweet potato ribbons or curls, made with a vegetable peeler, add a playful—and very appropriate—touch for gatherings.
Side Dishes
Because this cake feels both homey and luxurious, pair it with freshly brewed coffee, spiced chai, or a glass of cold milk. If you’re serving a bigger brunch spread, fresh berries or a fruit salad make fantastic, colorful companions to balance the Sweet Potato Honeybun Cake with Pecans & Grated Sweet Potato Icing.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the cake into squares and stacking them parfait-style in jars for picnics. For the holidays, use cookie cutters to create fun shapes, or serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent Southern sundae. The Sweet Potato Honeybun Cake with Pecans & Grated Sweet Potato Icing is just as at home at a potluck as it is at a family Thanksgiving.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your Sweet Potato Honeybun Cake with Pecans & Grated Sweet Potato Icing covered at room temperature for up to two days, or pop it in the refrigerator for four to five days. The icing keeps the cake moist, but be sure the pan is tightly wrapped to lock in freshness.
Freezing
If you want to make the whole cake ahead, you can freeze it (either iced or plain) by wrapping individual slices or the entire pan tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge—this cake holds its texture beautifully, so you can enjoy a taste of autumn any time you crave it.
Reheating
For that fresh-from-the-oven coziness, warm slices in the microwave for about 20 seconds or pop the whole pan into a low oven until just heated through. The icing will get a little melty and luscious—exactly how it should be for the perfect Sweet Potato Honeybun Cake with Pecans & Grated Sweet Potato Icing experience.
FAQs
Can I use homemade cake mix instead of boxed?
Absolutely! If you prefer a from-scratch approach, replace the boxed cake mix with your favorite homemade yellow cake batter. Just make sure to adjust for sweetness and leavening so the Sweet Potato Honeybun Cake with Pecans & Grated Sweet Potato Icing rises properly and retains the right sweetness.
How do I get the smoothest grated sweet potato for the icing?
For a super-smooth icing, use the finest holes on your box grater or food processor attachment. If you’d like some extra texture and visual appeal, a coarser grate is lovely too. The sweet potato will soften further as it cooks with the butter.
Can I make this cake nut-free?
You can absolutely leave out the pecans if allergies are a concern. The Sweet Potato Honeybun Cake with Pecans & Grated Sweet Potato Icing will still have plenty of flavor and moisture; try adding a handful of raisins or a sprinkle of oats for a different twist if you like.
What makes this different from a regular honeybun cake?
The addition of mashed sweet potato and the unique grated sweet potato icing takes this well beyond your classic honeybun cake. The flavors are deeper, the color is richer, and the icing has a personality all its own—this is the Sweet Potato Honeybun Cake with Pecans & Grated Sweet Potato Icing that everyone will remember.
Is this cake suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, every element of this recipe is vegetarian-friendly. The Sweet Potato Honeybun Cake with Pecans & Grated Sweet Potato Icing contains no meat or gelatin, so it’s a welcoming choice for just about every dessert table.
Final Thoughts
There’s a reason Sweet Potato Honeybun Cake with Pecans & Grated Sweet Potato Icing quickly becomes a go-to once you’ve tried it—each bite is sweet, cozy, and full of surprises. Go ahead, gather your ingredients and give it a whirl; you might just discover your new favorite way to celebrate the season!
