Ultimate Sweet Potato Honeybun Cake with Pecans Recipe

Did You Know Sweet Potato Cakes Can Be Even More Indulgent Than Traditional Desserts?

When you think of decadent desserts, sweet potatoes might not be the first ingredient that comes to mind. But what if I told you that this humble root vegetable can transform into a show-stopping, melt-in-your-mouth masterpiece? That’s exactly what this Sweet Potato Honeybun Cake with Pecans delivers—a luscious, spiced cake so rich and tender, it rivals even the most buttery pound cakes. And here’s the best part: it’s packed with the natural sweetness and nutrients of sweet potatoes, making every bite as wholesome as it is irresistible.

I still remember the first time I baked this cake. The aroma of cinnamon and honey swirling through my kitchen was nothing short of magical. It was a chilly autumn afternoon, and my grandmother had just gifted me a basket of freshly dug sweet potatoes from her garden. Rather than making the usual pie, I wanted something different—something that would capture the cozy warmth of the season while feeling like a true celebration. That’s how this Sweet Potato Honeybun Cake was born, crowned with a crunchy pecan streusel that adds the perfect contrast to its velvety crumb.

What makes this recipe truly special is its balance of flavors. The sweet potatoes lend a deep, earthy sweetness, while the honey glaze infuses every layer with golden, floral notes. And let’s not forget the pecans—toasted to perfection, they bring a nutty crunch that ties everything together. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering or simply treating yourself on a quiet weekend, this cake is guaranteed to become an instant favorite.

So, why does this cake stand out from the rest? It’s all in the technique. Unlike dense sweet potato breads, this recipe keeps the texture light and airy, almost like a cross between a classic honey bun and a spiced coffee cake. The secret? Whipping the eggs just right and folding in the mashed sweet potatoes gently to keep the batter fluffy. And that honey drizzle? It soaks into every crevice, ensuring each slice is moist and bursting with flavor.

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Sweet Potato Honeybun Cake with Pecans Recipe

There’s something magical about the way sweet potatoes and honey come together—warm, earthy, and just a little indulgent. This cake is like a hug in dessert form, with a tender crumb, a ribbon of cinnamon swirl, and a generous crunch of toasted pecans. It’s perfect for cozy mornings with coffee or as a sweet ending to a Sunday supper.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes – Roast or boil them until fork-tender, then mash until smooth. The natural sweetness here is key!
• 1 cup honey – Go for a rich, amber variety if you can—it adds depth to the flavor.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted – Because everything’s better with butter, right?
• 3 large eggs – Room temperature eggs blend more smoothly into the batter.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour – Spoon and level it to avoid a dense cake.
• 1 tsp baking soda – The lift that makes this cake beautifully tender.
• 1 tsp cinnamon – Warm and cozy, just like the rest of this dessert.
• ½ tsp nutmeg – A little goes a long way to complement the sweet potatoes.
• ½ cup chopped pecans – Toast them first for extra crunch and nutty flavor.
• ¼ cup brown sugar + 1 tsp cinnamon (for the swirl) – This ribbon of sweetness is what makes it a “honeybun” cake!

Let’s Bake This Cozy Dream

Step 1: Prep Your Sweet Potatoes
If you haven’t already, roast or boil your sweet potatoes until they’re completely soft. Peel and mash them while they’re still warm—this helps create a silky texture. Let them cool slightly before mixing into the batter.

Step 2: Whisk the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the mashed sweet potatoes, honey, and melted butter until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. The batter should be velvety and fragrant at this point—take a deep breath and enjoy that spiced sweetness!

Step 3: Sift the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This ensures no lumps and an even rise. Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. Overmixing can make the cake tough, so gentle hands here!

Step 4: Create the Cinnamon Swirl
In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and remaining teaspoon of cinnamon. Pour half of the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the top. Spoon the remaining batter over the swirl and use a knife to gently marble it—just a few zigzags will do!

Conclusion

This Sweet Potato Honeybun Cake with Pecans is a cozy, comforting dessert that brings together the warmth of sweet potatoes, the richness of honey, and the satisfying crunch of pecans. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday gathering or just treating yourself to a little indulgence, this cake is sure to become a favorite. The best part? It’s simple to make yet feels incredibly special.

If you try this recipe, we’d love to hear how it turned out for you! Leave a comment below or tag us on social media with your baking adventures. And if you’re craving more sweet potato goodness, check out our Classic Sweet Potato Pie or Spiced Sweet Potato Muffins for more delicious inspiration.

FAQs

Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Canned sweet potato puree works just fine in this recipe. Just make sure it’s unsweetened and well-drained to avoid excess moisture in your batter.

What can I substitute for pecans if I have a nut allergy?

If you’re allergic to pecans, you can simply omit them or replace them with toasted oats or sunflower seeds for a similar crunch without the nuts.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! This cake stays moist and delicious for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also freeze it for up to a month—just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.

Why is my cake too dense?

If your cake turns out overly dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter or using too much sweet potato. Be sure to mix just until the ingredients are combined, and measure your sweet potato puree carefully for the best texture.

Can I use maple syrup instead of honey?

Definitely! Maple syrup makes a great substitute for honey if you prefer its flavor. Just keep in mind that it may slightly alter the taste profile, but the cake will still be delicious.