Instructions:
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
Step 2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, instant vanilla pudding mix, eggs, 1/2 cup of water, and vegetable oil. Mix until well combined and smooth.
Step 3
In a separate small bowl, mix together the white sugar, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon.
Step 4
Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared baking pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the batter. If using pecans, sprinkle half of them over the cinnamon sugar layer.
Step 5
Pour the remaining cake batter over the cinnamon sugar layer, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cinnamon sugar mixture over the top, followed by the remaining pecans if using.
Step 6
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7
While the cake is baking, prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, stir in 1/4 cup of water and bring the mixture to a boil. Remove from heat and stir in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 8
When the cake is finished baking, remove it from the oven and immediately poke holes all over the top of the cake using a fork or skewer.
Step 9
Pour the glaze evenly over the hot cake, allowing it to soak into the holes and spread over the surface.
Step 10
Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature, and watch it disappear in no time!