This Sweet Potato Honeybun Cake is the ultimate comfort dessert—soft, moist, and packed with warm cinnamon flavor. Inspired by the classic honeybun cake, this version adds rich, naturally sweet mashed sweet potatoes for an extra layer of depth and tenderness.
The magic of this cake lies in its signature cinnamon swirl that runs through the center, creating a beautiful marbled effect and bursts of sweet spice in every bite. Finished with a smooth vanilla glaze, this cake is irresistibly soft and indulgent, making it perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a sweet snack with coffee.
Whether you’re baking for family, holidays, or just craving something cozy, this cake is easy to make and guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 cup mashed sweet potatoes
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 3/4 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
For the Glaze:
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Preparation
Step 1:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking pan.
Step 2:
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
Step 3:
In another bowl, mix mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, brown sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
Step 4:
Add dry ingredients to wet mixture, alternating with buttermilk. Mix until just combined.
Step 5:
Pour half of the batter into the pan.
Step 6:
Mix brown sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle evenly over the batter.
Step 7:
Pour remaining batter on top and gently swirl with a knife.
Step 8:
Bake for 35–40 minutes, until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Step 9:
Let cake cool slightly.
Step 10:
Prepare glaze by mixing powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
eStep 11:
Drizzle glaze over the warm cake.
Variation
- Nutty Version: Add chopped pecans or walnuts
- Maple Glaze: Replace milk with maple syrup
- Extra Spice: Add nutmeg or cloves
- Cream Cheese Glaze: Use cream cheese frosting instead
- Cupcake Style: Bake in muffin tins
COOKING Note
Use smooth, well-mashed sweet potatoes for best texture. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake light and tender.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm for a soft, gooey texture
- Pair with coffee or tea
- Add whipped cream or ice cream
- Perfect for brunch or dessert tables
Tips
- Roast sweet potatoes for richer flavor
- Use room temperature ingredients
- Don’t overbake to keep moisture
- Let glaze soak into warm cake
- Store covered to keep soft
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cooking Time:
40 minutes
Total Time:
55 minutes
Nutritional Information (per slice approx.)
- Calories: 360
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 200mg
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