This Sweet Potato Butter Cake is a timeless classic that brings warmth, nostalgia, and a touch of Southern charm to your table. Moist, spiced, and utterly irresistible, this cake is infused with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes and a hint of cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla. Topped with a luscious buttery glaze or cream cheese frosting, it’s the perfect dessert for holidays, family gatherings, or just because you’re craving something cozy. Straight from Grandma’s recipe box, this cake is sure to become a cherished favorite in your home too!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cake:
- 1 cup mashed cooked sweet potato (about 2 medium sweet potatoes)
- 1 cup unsalted butter , softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs , room temperature
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional but recommended)
- ½ cup whole milk , room temperature
For the Glaze (Optional):
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
For Cream Cheese Frosting (Alternative):
- ½ cup unsalted butter , softened
- 4 oz cream cheese , softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar , sifted
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Sweet Potatoes
- Peel and chop sweet potatoes into chunks. Boil or steam them until tender, about 15–20 minutes.
- Mash the cooked sweet potatoes until smooth and let them cool completely before using. You’ll need 1 cup of mashed sweet potato for the cake.
Step 2: Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) . Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream the softened butter and sugar together on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3–4 minutes .
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Mix in the vanilla extract until combined.
Step 5: Alternate Dry Ingredients and Wet Ingredients
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in three parts, alternating with the milk in two parts. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined.
- Stir in the mashed sweet potato until the batter is smooth and evenly mixed.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes , or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 7: Make the Glaze or Frosting
For the Glaze:
- Whisk together the powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the cream for desired consistency.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake and let it set for a few minutes.
For Cream Cheese Frosting:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat on medium-high speed for 2–3 minutes until light and fluffy. Spread the frosting over the cooled cake.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Moist and Flavorful: The sweet potatoes keep the cake incredibly moist while adding a subtle sweetness.
- Spiced Perfection: Cinnamon and nutmeg bring warmth and depth to every bite.
- Versatile Toppings: Choose between a simple glaze for everyday indulgence or cream cheese frosting for special occasions.
Tips for Success:
- Use Fresh Sweet Potatoes: Canned sweet potato puree can be substituted, but fresh sweet potatoes deliver superior flavor and texture.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix just until the ingredients are combined to avoid a dense cake.
- Cool Completely Before Frosting: Warm cake can melt the frosting, ruining its texture and appearance.
Ways to Enjoy Your Sweet Potato Butter Cake:
- Holiday Dessert: Serve it at Thanksgiving or Christmas alongside pies and cookies.
- Breakfast Treat: Pair a slice with coffee or tea for a sweet start to your day.
- Snack Time: Wrap individual slices in foil for an easy grab-and-go snack.
- Gift Idea: Package slices in decorative boxes or tins for a heartfelt homemade gift.
This Sweet Potato Butter Cake is a celebration of comfort and tradition, wrapped up in one delicious dessert. Its velvety crumb, fragrant spices, and rich toppings make it a standout treat for any occasion. Whether you’re honoring Grandma’s legacy or creating new memories with your loved ones, this cake is sure to leave a lasting impression. So grab your apron, preheat the oven, and get ready to bake a slice of happiness! 🍠❤️
