Description
Looking for the ultimate easy dessert idea that blends the nostalgic warmth of a honeybun with the decadence of a cheesecake and the spiced depth of a carrot cake? This Honeybun Carrot Cake with Cheesecake Filling is your new go-to. Whether you’re planning a holiday dessert, need birthday cake ideas, or simply crave an indulgent baking project, this recipe offers it all: moist carrot cake, a creamy cheesecake core, and a honey-kissed cream cheese frosting that brings everything together in one glorious, show-stopping creation.
Its layers offer both a visual and flavorful wow-factor, and it works perfectly as a quick make-ahead dessert, a treat to impress guests, or just a personal reward after a long week. With comforting spices, natural sweetness, and a touch of luxury, this is one of those easy recipes you’ll find yourself returning to — again and again.
Ingredients
For the Carrot Cake Layers:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 ½ tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp nutmeg
- ¼ tsp ginger
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¾ cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups finely grated carrots
- ½ cup crushed pineapple (drained)
- ¾ cup toasted pecans (optional)
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese (softened)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 egg
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ cup sour cream
For the Honeybun Frosting:
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 2 cups powdered sugar (sifted)
- 3 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
-
Make the Cheesecake Layer:
- Preheat oven to 325°F.
- Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Add cornstarch, egg, vanilla, and sour cream. Mix until just combined.
- Pour into lined pan and bake for 30–35 mins.
- Cool completely and chill for at least 1 hour.
-
Prepare Carrot Cake Layers:
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and line two 8 or 9-inch pans.
- Whisk dry ingredients together.
- In a separate bowl, mix sugars and oil, then add eggs and vanilla.
- Combine dry and wet ingredients, then fold in carrots, pineapple, and pecans.
- Divide into pans and bake for 28–32 minutes.
- Cool completely on wire racks.
-
Make the Frosting:
- Beat butter and cream cheese until fluffy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar.
- Mix in honey, vanilla, and salt until creamy.
-
Assemble:
- Place one carrot cake layer on a plate and add a thin frosting layer.
- Add the cheesecake layer, then the second carrot cake.
- Frost top and sides, garnish if desired.
- Chill for at least 1 hour before serving.
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Chill Time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 1 hour