Honeybun Carrot Cake Recipe

Ingredients:
For the Cake:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt
3 large eggs
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
1 cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 cups grated carrots (about 3 medium carrots)
1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce (optional, for extra moisture)
For the Honeybun Glaze:
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup powdered sugar
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until smooth and well combined.
Add the vanilla extract, grated carrots, and crushed pineapple to the wet ingredients. Stir to combine.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
If using, fold in the walnuts or pecans and applesauce for added moisture and texture.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
Bake the cake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan.
Step 3: Prepare the Honeybun Glaze
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Stir in the brown sugar, heavy cream (or milk), vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
Remove from heat and stir in the powdered sugar until smooth and glossy.
Step 4: Glaze the Cake
Once the cake has cooled, pour the warm honeybun glaze over the top, letting it drip down the sides for that signature sticky look.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Allow the glaze to set slightly before slicing and serving the Honeybun Carrot Cake.
Enjoy this moist, spiced cake with the rich, caramelized glaze on top—perfect for any dessert table!
This Honeybun Carrot Cake brings together the best of both worlds—carrot cake and the irresistible sweetness of honeybuns. The cinnamon glaze adds the perfect finishing touch, making every bite a delight!