Introduction
If a classic carrot cake married a gooey cinnamon honeybun, this would be their delicious lovechild. This Honeybun Carrot Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Icing is warm, nostalgic, and full of comforting flavors. Honey brings natural sweetness, crushed pineapple adds moisture, and the cinnamon-spiced icing takes it over the top.
Whether you’re baking for a holiday, brunch, or just craving something cozy, this cake is the perfect showstopper—layered, tender, and irresistibly fragrant.
Why I Love This Recipe
There’s something about the combo of honey, spice, and cream cheese frosting that just feels like a hug. I love how this recipe upgrades a traditional carrot cake with the richness of honey and warm cinnamon—without being overly sweet.
It’s approachable enough for a casual weekend bake and special enough to bring to Easter, Thanksgiving, or a fall dinner party.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- ½ tsp ground ginger
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature 🧈
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup honey 🍯
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup grated carrots (about 2 medium carrots) 🥕
- ½ cup crushed pineapple, drained 🍍
- ½ cup chopped pecans (optional)
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Icing:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Ingredient Notes & Swaps
- Honey: Use a light floral honey for best flavor. Maple syrup works in a pinch but will change the flavor.
- Carrots: Freshly grated carrots work best for moisture and texture.
- Pineapple: Don’t skip this! It keeps the cake tender and adds just the right tang.
- Pecans: Totally optional—but they add crunch and a nutty finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Cake Batter
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round pans or line with parchment.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices.
- In a large bowl, cream together butter, sugar, and honey until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well.
- Mix in grated carrots and drained pineapple.
- Gradually stir in dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in pecans (if using), and stir in vanilla extract.
2. Bake the Cake
- Divide the batter evenly between the pans.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
3. Make the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Icing
- Beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until light and fluffy.
- Mix in vanilla extract and cinnamon.
4. Assemble and Frost
- Once cakes are fully cooled, layer with icing in between.
- Frost the top and sides with the remaining cinnamon cream cheese icing.
- Garnish with extra pecans or a sprinkle of cinnamon, if desired.
Tips for Success
- Grate your own carrots for better texture—pre-shredded can be too dry.
- Drain pineapple well to avoid a soggy batter.
- Room temp butter and cream cheese make all the difference in smooth icing.
- For extra flair, add a drizzle of honey on top before serving.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This cake is fantastic with:
- Hot coffee or cinnamon chai
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream
- A brunch table full of baked favorites like:
- Pumpkin Spice Muffins for fall vibes
- Chocolate Chip Cookie Bites for a sweet nibble
Looking for a holiday treat that’s just as cozy? Don’t miss:
- Pecan Pie Bars
- The Easter Cookies Everyone’s Talking About – colorful, cute, and festive
Storage & Leftovers
- Store: Keep covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
- Make ahead: Bake the cake layers in advance and freeze them, then frost the day of your event.
More Recipes You’ll Love
- Old-School No-Bake Cookies – a nostalgic no-fuss treat
- Pumpkin Spice Muffins – warm, spicy, and simple
Final Thoughts
This Honeybun Carrot Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Icing is the kind of dessert that bridges generations. It’s cozy yet classy, spiced but balanced, and beautifully moist thanks to the honey and pineapple.
Bake it for someone you love—or just because it’s Tuesday and you deserve a slice of something special. If you try it, tag @chefmaniac and share the love. And don’t forget to follow for more bake-worthy recipes that comfort and delight.
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