If you’re searching for a cozy, heartwarming dessert that captures the essence of fall in every bite, this Sweet Potato Butter Cake Recipe is an absolute must-try. It brings together the natural sweetness and creaminess of mashed sweet potatoes with the rich softness of a classic butter cake, resulting in a moist, tender slice that melts in your mouth. Perfectly spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, this cake is a Southern American treasure that combines tradition with comforting flavors, making it ideal for gatherings or simply treating yourself to a little piece of homemade joy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Sweet Potato Butter Cake Recipe plays a crucial role in creating its luscious texture and warm, inviting flavor. From the naturally sweet mashed sweet potato that keeps the cake moist, to the aromatic spices that add depth, these simple staples work beautifully together to produce a delightful treat.
- Mashed cooked sweet potato (1 cup): Provides natural sweetness and moisture, forming the cake’s tender base.
- Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): Adds richness and helps achieve that melt-in-your-mouth crumb.
- Granulated sugar (1 1/2 cups): Balances sweetness and aids in the cake’s light texture.
- Large eggs (4, room temperature): Bind ingredients while contributing to the fluffy rise.
- Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Enhances flavor with a warm, aromatic touch.
- All-purpose flour (2 cups): Forms the structure of the cake, providing stability.
- Baking powder (1 teaspoon): Helps the cake rise evenly.
- Baking soda (1/2 teaspoon): Reacts with buttermilk to tenderize the crumb.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Adds that signature warm spiced note.
- Ground nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon): Provides a subtle, nutty undertone.
- Buttermilk (1/2 cup): Keeps the cake moist and tender while adding a hint of tanginess.
- Optional topping (powdered sugar or cream cheese glaze): Adds a pretty finish and extra indulgence.
How to Make Sweet Potato Butter Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, grease a 9-inch bundt pan or loaf pan thoroughly to ensure the cake comes out cleanly after baking. This step sets the stage for a perfectly baked cake with no sticky surprises.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture turns light and fluffy—about 3 to 4 minutes. This process introduces air, which helps create that airy and tender crumb we’re aiming for in the final cake.
Step 3: Add Eggs One by One
Crack in the eggs one at a time, making sure to beat well after each addition. This gradual blending ensures a smooth and uniform batter, which contributes to even rising and a delicate texture.
Step 4: Mix in Sweet Potato and Vanilla
Fold the mashed sweet potato and vanilla extract into your butter and egg mixture until everything is combined smoothly. The sweet potato brings a beautiful color and natural moisture, while the vanilla adds subtle sweetness with a fragrant hint.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together all your dry ingredients—the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This ensures even distribution of leaveners and spices, which is key to consistent flavor and texture.
Step 6: Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk
Add the dry ingredient mixture in three parts to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the flour mixture. Mix gently and just until combined to avoid overworking the batter, which can make the cake dense rather than soft and tender.
Step 7: Bake the Cake
Pour your batter into the prepared pan and smooth the surface with a spatula. Pop the pan into your preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes before turning it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Sweet Potato Butter Cake Recipe
Garnishes
This Sweet Potato Butter Cake Recipe truly shines when dressed up thoughtfully. A light dusting of powdered sugar instantly adds a lovely, classic touch. Alternatively, a drizzle of cream cheese glaze introduces a creamy tang that perfectly complements the warm spices and sweetness of the cake.
Side Dishes
Pairing the cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream transforms it into an irresistible dessert. For breakfast or brunch, a side of fresh fruit, like sliced apples or pears, introduces brightness and balances the cake’s richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, slice the cake and layer it with cinnamon-spiced whipped cream or mascarpone between slices to create a quasi-layered dessert. You can also serve it alongside a warm caramel sauce or sprinkle with toasted pecans for an added crunch and festive flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover Sweet Potato Butter Cake Recipe fresh by storing it at room temperature, covered loosely with plastic wrap or foil, for up to 3 days. This maintains its softness and flavor without drying out.
Freezing
If you want to prepare in advance or save on leftovers, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. It will keep beautifully for about 1 month. Thaw it overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
To revive the cake’s just-baked warmth, pop a slice in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds or warm it gently in an oven set to 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes. This brings back the moist, soft texture and makes it even better when served warm with ice cream or glaze.
FAQs
Can I use canned sweet potato puree instead of fresh?
Absolutely! While roasted sweet potatoes offer the best natural flavor and texture, canned puree works well in a pinch and simplifies the process without sacrificing too much taste.
Is buttermilk necessary for this cake?
Buttermilk plays an important role by adding tanginess and keeping the cake moist and tender. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1/2 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes before using.
Can this cake be made gluten-free?
With some tweaks, yes! Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that includes xanthan gum for structure. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for best results.
What’s the best way to serve this cake for a holiday gathering?
Serve it warm with a dusting of powdered sugar, a cream cheese glaze drizzle, and a side of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. Add some toasted pecans on top for that festive crunch everyone loves.
How long does this cake stay fresh once baked?
Stored properly at room temperature, it stays fresh and moist for up to 3 days. Beyond that, it’s best to freeze any leftovers if you want to keep the flavors and texture intact.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to create a memorable dessert that brings smiles and comfort, this Sweet Potato Butter Cake Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. It’s inviting, flavorful, and surprisingly simple to whip up, making it perfect for any occasion that calls for a little homemade warmth. Go ahead and give it a try—you’ll be glad you did!
