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As autumn whispers in the air, the vibrant colors of falling leaves signal a time for warm flavors and cozy gatherings. Picture this: the first bite of Pumpkin Walnut Cake melts in your mouth, a sweet and fragrant embrace of cinnamon, pumpkin, and toasted walnuts dancing across your palate. This recipe became a cherished staple in my home after I discovered it at a friend’s potluck. While everyone else fussed over their elaborate recipes, I was enchanted by the simplicity and comfort this cake brings—it’s like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket on a chilly day.

With just a few pantry staples and a bit of love, this cake transforms busy weekdays into moments to savor. It’s the kind of dessert that boasts both elegance and ease, perfect for cozy family dinners or a casual gathering with friends. As I bake this gem, I can’t help but feel grateful for the season’s bounty and the simple pleasure of homemade treats. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why is Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake a Must-Try?

Deliciously Unique: This cake blends the savory essence of pumpkin with sweet spices, creating a flavor profile that is irresistible.
Simplicity: With just a box of cake mix and easy-to-find ingredients, you can whip up this dessert in no time.
Nostalgic Comfort: The warm aroma of cinnamon and walnuts will transport you back to cozy autumn days.
Versatile Delight: Perfect for both intimate family dinners and larger gatherings, it’s a crowd-pleaser.
Drizzled Elegance: The glaze adds a beautiful finish that elevates this cake to an impressive dessert without extra work.
Embrace the season with this cake; it may just become your new favorite!

Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake Ingredients

For the Cake

Super moist yellow cake mix – a convenient base that keeps the cake fluffy and flavorful.
Vegetable oil – helps add moisture, ensuring every bite is tender.
Eggs – provides structure and rich flavor, making the cake light and airy.
Sour cream – adds a delightful tang and enhances the cake’s moistness.
Canned pumpkin – infuses the cake with a warm autumn flavor profile, making it perfect for the season.
Pumpkin pie spice – this blend of spices is essential to create that classic pumpkin taste.

For the Filling

Brown sugar – its sweetness caramelizes beautifully, adding depth to the cake layers.
Chopped walnuts – these add a satisfying crunch and rich flavor that complements the pumpkin perfectly.

For the Glaze

Powdered sugar – lends just the right sweetness for a smooth and creamy glaze.
Milk – blends seamlessly into the glaze for a perfect pourable consistency.
Vanilla – a dash of this aromatic flavor enhances the overall sweetness of the glaze.

This Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake is easy to make and brings a festive spirit to your table!

How to Make Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing the bottom and sides of a 13×9 inch baking pan ensures your cake slides out easily once baked.
Combine the cake mix, vegetable oil, eggs, sour cream, canned pumpkin, and pumpkin pie spice in a large bowl. Beat on medium speed for about 2 minutes, mixing until well incorporated but not over-mixed.
Pour 2 cups of the prepared batter into the bottom of the greased pan, creating a nice layer for the filling to rest on.
Mix the chopped walnuts and brown sugar in a small bowl until well combined. Sprinkle this delicious mixture evenly over the layer of cake batter, ensuring a sweet surprise in every bite.
Add the rest of the batter over the walnut and sugar filling. Carefully smooth it across using a spatula to cover the filling completely, making sure it reaches the edges of the pan.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, remove the pan and let it cool on a cooling rack.
Prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla in a medium bowl until smooth and creamy.
Drizzle the glaze over the warm cake using a spatula, making sure to cover the entire surface for that beautiful, sweet finish. Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing and serving.

Optional: Top each slice with extra chopped walnuts for added crunch!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake Variations & Substitutions

Let your creativity shine as you customize this cake to reflect your unique taste and dietary preferences!

Gluten-Free: Swap the yellow cake mix for a gluten-free variety to cater to gluten sensitivities while enjoying the same delectable flavors.
Nut-Free: Omit the walnuts and replace them with a mix of sunflower seeds or chocolate chips for a delightful crunch without the allergens.
Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or black pepper to the pumpkin pie spice to introduce a gentle heat that beautifully contrasts the sweetness.
Vegan: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal (3 tablespoons mixed with 9 tablespoons water) and use a plant-based yogurt alternative instead of sour cream.
Coffee Infusion: Stir in a tablespoon of instant coffee granules into the batter for a subtle coffee flavor that pairs wonderfully with the pumpkin.
Fruit Twist: Incorporate chopped apples or pears for added moisture and a fruity explosion for those cozy autumn afternoons.
Sweetener Swap: Use maple syrup instead of brown sugar in the filling for a deeper, more complex flavor profile that harmonizes beautifully with pumpkin.
Cream Cheese Glaze: Substitute the powdered sugar glaze for a tangy cream cheese frosting made by mixing softened cream cheese, vanilla, and a splash of milk for a richer treat.

Make Ahead Options

These Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can combine the dry ingredients (cake mix, pumpkin pie spice, and brown sugar) and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Additionally, you can mix the wet ingredients (oil, eggs, sour cream, pumpkin) and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours; this helps enhance the pumpkin flavor. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the wet and dry mixtures, pour the batter into the prepared pan, sprinkle with walnuts, and bake. This way, you can enjoy a fresh, homemade treat with minimal effort when it’s time to serve!

Helpful Tricks for Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake

Don’t Over-Mix: Mix just until incorporated to keep the cake light and fluffy. Over-mixing can make it dense.
Perfect Layering: Ensure an even layer of batter and filling to avoid sinking or uneven texture in your pumpkin honey bun cake.
Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick inserted in the center; it should come out clean to know when the cake is perfectly baked.
Glaze Lifesaver: Drizzle the glaze while the cake is still warm for a beautiful, melty finish that seeps into the cake.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers airtight at room temperature for a day or refrigerate for longer freshness, ensuring you always have a slice ready!

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake

Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain its moist texture and flavor.

Fridge: If you plan to keep it longer, refrigerate the pumpkin honey bun cake for up to 5 days. Cover it well to prevent drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: Allow frozen slices to thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying. To warm, microwave for 15-20 seconds for a cozy slice that tastes freshly baked!

What to Serve with Pumpkin Walnut Cake?

As you savor each slice of this delightful cake, consider these complementary dishes and drinks to create the perfect cozy gathering.

Spiced Apple Cider: The warm, aromatic flavors perfectly enhance the pumpkin notes and bring a festive autumn vibe to your table.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: This classic side adds richness and a comforting texture to balance the sweet cake, making your meal feel complete.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slight bitterness and crisp texture provide a lovely contrast to the cake’s sweetness—ideal for a savory finish.
Cinnamon Ice Cream: A scoop of this creamy delight melts wonderfully over warm cake, creating a decadent treat that highlights those fall spices.
Pecan Pie: A classic dessert that pairs seamlessly, both boasting rich flavors and a homey feel, sure to impress your guests.
Chai Tea: This spiced drink complements the pumpkin walnut cake, enhancing its autumn-inspired ingredients and inviting guests to linger longer.
Maple Walnut Cookies: Their chewy texture and sweet nuttiness mirror the cake’s flavor, creating a unified yet diverse dessert spread.
Fresh Fruit Salad: The refreshing burst of citrus and seasonal fruits provides a light, palate-cleansing contrast, promising a delightful balance to your meal.

Serve up this delightful cake alongside these dishes, and watch your gathering blossom with warmth and joy!

Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right canned pumpkin?
Absolutely! When choosing canned pumpkin for your pumpkin honey bun cake, look for pure pumpkin puree rather than pumpkin pie filling. The puree has a richer, authentic flavor and contains no added sugars or spices. Check the label for 100% pumpkin—this is a quick way to ensure you’re getting the best quality.

What is the best way to store leftovers?
Very! To keep your pumpkin honey bun cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you’d like it to last longer, transfer it to the refrigerator where it will stay good for up to 5 days. Remember to cover it well to prevent it from drying out, as the cake loves to retain its moisture!

Can I freeze pumpkin honey bun cake?
Absolutely! This cake freezes wonderfully. To do so, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them inside an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight. To bring back that fresh-baked feeling, pop it in the microwave for 15-20 seconds.

What should I do if the cake sinks in the middle?
No problem! A sunken cake can occur from over-mixing the batter or not letting it bake long enough. To avoid this, be sure to mix just until combined and check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, you’re ready to remove it from the oven. Each oven varies, so keeping an eye on the cake is key!

Is this cake safe for pets or those with allergies?
Good question! Pumpkin honey bun cake is great for humans but not for pets, especially dogs, due to the sugar and other ingredients. For allergies, make sure to review the ingredient labels for gluten if needed; you can consider using a gluten-free cake mix as an alternative to ensure everyone can enjoy a slice!