This Carrot Cake Honey Bun is the ultimate blend of flavors – moist carrot cake with a cinnamon-sugar swirl, topped with a sweet glaze that drips over the edges. It's an easy-to-make dessert perfect for brunches, gatherings, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. Optional chopped pecans or walnuts add a delightful crunch. Serve it warm, and enjoy the comforting flavors of cinnamon and carrot in every bite.
This Carrot Cake Honey Bun combines the best of two worlds – the comforting flavors of a classic carrot cake and the sweet, cinnamon swirl of a honey bun. With a moist, spiced cake base and a drizzle of vanilla glaze, this treat is perfect for dessert, brunch, or anytime you crave something sweet and satisfying.
INGREDIENTS
- Carrot cake mix: 1 box, provides a quick and easy base
- Grated carrots: 1 cup, adds moisture and flavor
- Vegetable oil: 1/2 cup, for richness
- Milk: 1/2 cup, adds moisture
- Eggs: 4 large, for structure and richness
- Cinnamon: 1 tsp, enhances warm flavor
- Chopped pecans or walnuts: 1/2 cup (optional), adds texture and nuttiness
- Brown sugar: 1/2 cup, for the honey bun swirl
- Cinnamon: 1 tbsp, adds spice to the swirl
- Powdered sugar: 1 cup, for the glaze
- Milk: 2 tbsp, to thin the glaze
- Vanilla extract: 1/2 tsp, adds flavor to the glaze
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.
- Step 2:
- Prepare the Cake Batter: In a large bowl, combine the carrot cake mix, grated carrots, oil, milk, eggs, and cinnamon. Mix until smooth and well combined. Fold in the chopped pecans or walnuts if desired.
- Step 3:
- Create the Honey Bun Swirl: In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon together.
- Step 4:
- Layer the Cake: Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the batter. Pour the remaining batter on top, spreading it gently to cover the cinnamon-sugar layer.
- Step 5:
- Bake: Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool slightly.
- Step 6:
- Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Adjust the milk to reach your desired consistency.
- Step 7:
- Glaze the Cake: Pour the glaze over the warm cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.
- Step 8:
- Serve: Garnish with extra chopped pecans if desired. Slice and enjoy your moist, flavorful Carrot Cake Honey Bun!
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve warm for the best flavor. Perfect for brunch or dessert.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the fridge for up to a week.
Helpful Notes
- Try adding a handful of raisins for extra texture and sweetness.
- Adjust the glaze thickness by adding more or less milk as needed.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- For a deeper flavor, toast the nuts before adding them to the batter.