Name: Sweet Potato Honey Bun Cake: A Cozy Morning Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 2 cups sweet potatoes, mashed (Fresh Garnet or Jewel sweet potatoes are preferred.); 1 box cake mix (A simple base that ensures quick preparation.); 8 oz cream cheese (Adds richness and moisture.); 3 large eggs (Essential for stability and structure.); ½ cup oil (Vegetable or canola oil for a tender crumb.); 1 tsp vanilla extract (Enhances the cake's flavor.); ½ cup brown sugar (Adds deep sweetness.); 1 tbsp cinnamon (Essential for flavor.); 1 tsp ginger (Essential for flavor.); ½ tsp nutmeg (Essential for flavor.); 2 cups confectioners' sugar (Sweetens the icing.); ¼ cup milk (Achieves the perfect pourable consistency.); 2 tbsp maple syrup (Adds depth and flavor.)

Sinking into the enchantingly sweet smell of freshly baked goods is one of my favorite moments in the kitchen. That’s exactly what you’ll experience with this Quick Sweet Potato Honey Bun Cake—an irresistible fusion of breakfast and dessert that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Using sweet potatoes not only provides a touch of nostalgia but also adds wholesome nutrients, making this cake the perfect guilt-free treat for morning gatherings or cozy afternoons. Plus, its quick preparation means you can whip it up in no time, leaving you free to focus on delightful conversations and maybe a warm cup of coffee. Ready to elevate your next brunch spread? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Why is this cake a must-try?

Irresistible Aroma: The warm scent of sweet potatoes and spices fills your kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere perfect for any gathering.
Quick Preparation: With a simple mix and bake method, you’ll have a delightful cake ready in just under 30 minutes.
Wholesome Ingredients: The use of sweet potatoes not only enhances flavor but adds nutrition, making it a guilt-free indulgence that everyone will love.
Versatile Serving: Whether for breakfast paired with coffee or as a dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, it’s a crowd-pleaser at every occasion.
Textural Delight: The fusion of moist, tender cake with a sugary spice swirl creates a comforting experience in every bite, reminiscent of warm cinnamon rolls.
Customizable Options: Feel free to switch out sweet potatoes for pumpkin or add nuts to make it your own! Check out how to make a Honey Garlic Chicken alongside for a full meal experience.

Sweet Potato Honey Bun Cake Ingredients

For the Cake
Sweet Potatoes – Fresh Garnet or Jewel sweet potatoes are perfect for natural sweetness; canned purees are a time-saving substitute.
Cake Mix – A simple base that ensures a quick preparation without compromising flavor.
Cream Cheese – Adds richness and moisture, giving the cake its signature smooth texture.
Eggs – Essential for providing stability and structure to your Sweet Potato Honey Bun Cake.
Oil – Use vegetable or canola oil for a tender crumb that won’t dry out.
Vanilla Extract – A splash of vanilla enhances the cake’s overall flavor profile, elevating your baking.
For the Sugar Swirl
Brown Sugar – Adds deep sweetness and richness; it’s ideal for creating that irresistible sugar swirl.
Cinnamon, Ginger, Nutmeg – This spice blend is crucial for flavor; don’t skip any for the best results.
For the Glaze
Confectioners’ Sugar – Sweetens the icing while providing a beautiful finish to your cake.
Milk – Helps to achieve the perfect pourable consistency for your glaze.
Maple Syrup – Adds depth and a touch of flavor, perfectly complementing the Sweet Potato Honey Bun Cake.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sweet Potato Honey Bun Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), filling your kitchen with that inviting warmth. While it heats, grab a 9×13 inch baking pan and spray it generously with nonstick cooking spray. This will ensure your Sweet Potato Honey Bun Cake effortlessly releases after baking, avoiding any sticky situations.

Step 2: Mix the Batter
In a stand mixer, combine the cake mix, sweet potato, cream cheese, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix on medium speed until everything is well blended into a smooth, creamy batter, about 2-3 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when there are no lumps in sight, and the batter has a lovely, inviting color that promises warmth.

Step 3: Prepare the Sugar Swirl
In a separate bowl, stir together the brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg to create your delicious sugar swirl mixture. This fragrant blend will add a delightful spiced sweetness to your cake. Be sure to mix thoroughly, after which you’ll be fully prepared to enhance your batter in the next step.

Step 4: Layer the Batter and Swirl
Spread half of the sweet potato cake batter evenly into the greased baking pan, creating a nice base. Next, sprinkle the sugar swirl mixture over this layer, ensuring even coverage. Pour the remaining batter on top, then use a knife to swirl everything gently together, creating marbled patterns.

Step 5: Bake the Cake
Place your pan in the preheated oven and allow the Sweet Potato Honey Bun Cake to bake for about 27-29 minutes. Keep an eye on it—you’ll know it’s done when the cake turns a beautiful golden brown and begins to pull away slightly from the edges, giving off that irresistible aroma.

Step 6: Cool in the Pan
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the cake cool in the pan for 30 minutes. This cooling time is essential; it allows the cake to set properly and makes it easier to cut later. Allowing it to cool also enhances the flavors as they mingle further!

Step 7: Whisk Together the Icing
While the cake cools, prepare the icing. In a bowl, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar, milk, and maple syrup until smooth and creamy. The goal is a pourable consistency that’s thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. This delightful glaze will bring everything together and add a sweet finish.

Step 8: Glaze and Serve
Once the cake has cooled sufficiently, carefully spread the icing over the top. Allow it to set for about 10 minutes, which will help it smoothen out beautifully on the cake. Finally, slice the Sweet Potato Honey Bun Cake into 24 generous pieces, ready to be savored by your family or guests.

Storage Tips for Sweet Potato Honey Bun Cake

Room Temperature: Store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps the cake moist and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Fridge: For longer freshness, refrigerate the cake in an airtight container for up to 5 days. The chill enhances its wholesome flavor, making each bite even more delightful.

Freezer: Freeze slices in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying your Sweet Potato Honey Bun Cake for a cozy treat.

Reheating: To revive the cake, gently microwave individual slices for 10-15 seconds. This warms it back to a freshly baked state, ensuring its comforting appeal.

Make Ahead Options

These Quick Sweet Potato Honey Bun Cakes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the sweet potatoes, cream cheese, eggs, and dry ingredients, then cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate. To keep the quality intact, ensure that you blend the ingredients completely to avoid lumps. When ready to bake, simply pour the batter into a greased pan, add the sugar swirl, and bake as directed. For the icing, you can whisk it together a day ahead and store it in the fridge, just remember to let it come to room temperature before glazing your cake for a smooth finish. Enjoy delicious, homemade sweetness without the last-minute rush!

What to Serve with Quick Sweet Potato Honey Bun Cake?

The perfect accompaniment to this delightful cake will elevate your brunch experience, making it irresistibly cozy and memorable.

Fresh Berries: A medley of ripe strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries adds a burst of freshness and color, complementing the cake’s warm spices beautifully.
Coffee or Tea: Warm, comforting drinks take the experience up a notch, enhancing the cake’s sweet and spicy notes while inviting cozy conversations.
Creamy Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt adds a tangy contrast, balancing the sweetness of the cake, while providing a healthy boost to your brunch spread.
Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, whipped cream adds a touch of indulgence that pairs excellently with the cake’s rich honey glaze, perfect for those afternoon tea parties.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: For those who crave extra sweetness, a little drizzle of pure maple syrup can enhance the flavors, echoing the cake’s glaze while adding depth.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert twist. The creamy texture melts into the cake, creating an unforgettable treat to share.

Expert Tips for Sweet Potato Honey Bun Cake

Mash Thoroughly: Ensure sweet potatoes are completely mashed to avoid lumps for a smooth, creamy batter. A food processor works wonders here.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Let your cold ingredients, like eggs and cream cheese, sit out for a bit. This helps them blend more smoothly into the batter.
Cool Before Glazing: Wait at least 20 minutes after baking before adding glaze. This prevents the icing from being absorbed and losing its beautiful finish.
Measure Spices Carefully: Accurate measurement of spices like cinnamon and nutmeg is crucial. Leaving any out can result in a flat flavor profile, so don’t skip—use the full blend for your Sweet Potato Honey Bun Cake!
Layer Wisely: When layering the batter and sugar swirl, be gentle but deliberate. This creates those delightful swirls without overmixing, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.

Sweet Potato Honey Bun Cake Variations

Feel free to get creative with this delicious recipe to suit your tastes and dietary preferences!

Pumpkin Twist: Substitute sweet potatoes with canned pumpkin for a seasonal vibe. This easy swap still packs a flavorful punch!
Nutty Addition: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter for a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft cake. Nuts bring a rustic charm, making every bite unique.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cake mix to make this recipe celiac-friendly while keeping it just as delicious. You’ll never miss the gluten!
Dairy-Free: Replace cream cheese with a plant-based alternative and use almond milk in the glaze. Enjoy the same rich flavor without any dairy!
Lower Sugar: Cut brown sugar in the sugar swirl by half and use a bit of maple syrup instead for added depth without the extra sweetness.
Extra Spice: Add a pinch of cardamom or allspice to the sugar swirl for a warm, aromatic kick that elevates the cake’s flavor profile. It’s a simple way to enhance that cozy feeling!
Fruit Filling: Layer in some fresh blueberries or raspberries between the cake layers for a fruity burst that adds both color and flavor contrast. How delightful!
Icing Alternatives: Swap the maple syrup icing for a buttery caramel sauce for an indulgent treat that pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee. Consider serving it alongside a slice of Honey Garlic Chicken for a complete meal experience!

Sweet Potato Honey Bun Cake Recipe FAQs

What type of sweet potatoes are best for this cake?
I recommend using fresh Garnet or Jewel sweet potatoes as they provide a natural sweetness and moist texture that enhances the cake. If you’re in a time crunch, canned purees can be a great, time-saving alternative!

How should I store the leftovers of my Sweet Potato Honey Bun Cake?
Store your cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep it moist. For longer storage, refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This cooling will actually help the flavors deepen.

Can I freeze my Sweet Potato Honey Bun Cake?
Absolutely! To freeze, slice the cake and wrap each piece securely in plastic wrap, then place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

What if my sweet potatoes are lumpy after mashing?
If your sweet potatoes turn out lumpy, simply transfer them to a food processor and blend until smooth. This extra step ensures your cake has that lovely creamy texture, making every bite delightful!

Is this cake suitable for people with nut allergies?
Yes! The Sweet Potato Honey Bun Cake itself does not contain any nuts, making it a safe option for individuals with nut allergies unless you choose to add nuts for crunch. Just be sure to check the labels on any packaged ingredients for potential cross-contamination.

Can I use different spices if I don’t have cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg?
While I wouldn’t recommend entirely substituting these spices, you can try using a pumpkin pie spice mix as an alternative. However, using the original spices will give your cake the intended warm, cozy flavor that truly defines it!