Name: Sweet Potato Cakes
Prep time: 110 min
Cook time: 16 min
Total time: 126 min
Ingredients: 3 medium sweet potatoes; 1 large egg (whisked); 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 2 cups panko or bread crumbs (divided); as needed vegetable or canola oil

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There’s something about Sweet Potato Cakes that brings back memories of chilly fall evenings, where the aroma of warm spices wafts through the air. I remember the first time I made these delightful cakes; I was experimenting in the kitchen, trying to find a way to use up the sweet potatoes I had lying around. What started as a simple mash quickly transformed into something magical. The golden-brown patties, crisp on the outside and soft on the inside, became an instant favorite in my home. It felt like I had stumbled onto a recipe that would not only warm bellies but also hearts.

As I served them to my family, their delighted expressions were all the affirmation I needed. Each bite is a wonderful blend of sweetness and warmth, enhanced by the hint of cinnamon. Whether as a side dish during Thanksgiving or a cozy dinner option, Sweet Potato Cakes have become a staple for me. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility; it pairs wonderfully with various sauces or can stand alone as a delicious vegetarian option. I’ve even made them for gatherings, and they always disappear quickly!

If you’re looking to impress your guests or simply enjoy a comforting meal, this recipe for Sweet Potato Cakes will surely do the trick. They remind me that cooking is not just about feeding ourselves but creating memories and experiences that linger long after the meal is over.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
2 hr 6 mins

Prep Time:
110 mins

Cook Time:
16 mins

Difficulty:
Hard

Calories:
180 kcal

Protein:
3 g

Diet:
Paleo, Gluten-Free, AIP

Fat:
5 g

Tools Used:
Skillet, Frying Pan, Whisk, Oven, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet

Why This Sweet Potato Cakes Is So Good

Deliciously Versatile

One of the standout features of Sweet Potato Cakes is their incredible versatility. You can serve them as a side dish, an appetizer, or even as a main dish paired with a salad. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making them perfect for any occasion.

Health Benefits

Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins and minerals. They are an excellent source of vitamins A and C, providing health benefits that support your immune system and skin health. Including Sweet Potato Cakes in your meals is a tasty way to boost your nutrition.

Easy to Make

This recipe is incredibly easy to follow. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll find that making Sweet Potato Cakes is not only straightforward but also enjoyable! The process of mashing the sweet potatoes and forming them into patties is satisfying and yields delicious results.

Family-Friendly

These cakes are a hit with kids and adults alike! The subtle sweetness of the sweet potatoes combined with the crispy exterior makes them an appealing choice for family meals. Plus, they are a great way to introduce more vegetables into your children’s diets.

Perfect for Batch Cooking

Another reason to love Sweet Potato Cakes is that they can be made in large batches and frozen for later use. This makes them a great option for meal prep, allowing you to have a delicious, homemade dish ready to go whenever you need it.

Flavor Combinations

You can easily customize the flavors of your Sweet Potato Cakes. Consider adding herbs like rosemary or spices such as nutmeg to enhance the taste. They’re a blank canvas waiting for your culinary creativity!

What to Gather for Sweet Potato Cakes

When it comes to creating Sweet Potato Cakes, the ingredients are simple yet effective. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in delivering that sweet and savory balance that makes these cakes so enjoyable. From the earthy flavor of sweet potatoes to the golden crunch of panko, each element works together harmoniously.

3 medium sweet potatoes: The star of the dish, sweet potatoes provide natural sweetness and a creamy texture when mashed.
1 large egg, whisked: The egg acts as a binding agent, helping to hold the cakes together.
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: This spice adds warmth and a hint of sweetness that complements the sweet potatoes beautifully.
1 tablespoon brown sugar: A touch of brown sugar enhances the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes.
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Salt balances the flavors, making the sweetness stand out even more.
2 cups panko or bread crumbs, divided: Panko gives the cakes a crispy exterior, essential for texture.
Vegetable or canola oil, as needed: This is used for frying the cakes, giving them a golden-brown crust.

Instructions for Sweet Potato Cakes

Making Sweet Potato Cakes is a rewarding experience that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas. Let’s dive into the steps to create these delicious patties!

Preheat your oven to 400 F. This temperature is perfect for roasting the sweet potatoes to bring out their natural sweetness. The oven will do most of the work, and you’ll enjoy the delightful smell wafting through your home.
Poke a few holes in the sweet potatoes using a fork. This allows steam to escape while baking, ensuring they cook thoroughly. Place the sweet potatoes directly on the oven rack and bake for about one hour. You’ll know they’re done when they’re tender and easy to pierce.
Once baked, remove the sweet potatoes from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Carefully discard the skins; they should come off easily. In a large bowl, mash the flesh of the sweet potatoes until it’s smooth and creamy. Allow this mixture to cool completely. It’s important that it’s not too hot when you add the other ingredients.
In the same bowl, mix in the whisked egg, cinnamon, brown sugar, salt, and ½ cup of panko or bread crumbs. This combination adds flavor and ensures the cakes hold their shape. Stir until everything is well incorporated.
In a separate bowl, place the remaining 1 1/2 cups of panko or bread crumbs. This will be used for coating the cakes. It’s the secret to that delightful crunch!
For each cake, scoop out about two tablespoons of the sweet potato mixture. Form it into a small patty and coat it with the panko crumbs in the separate bowl. Press gently to ensure the crumbs stick well.
Now, heat about two tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the patties into the skillet. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; you want to give each cake enough space to crisp up.
Pan-fry the cakes for about four minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown. The irresistible aroma will fill your kitchen as they cook! Keep an eye on them to avoid burning, flipping carefully to maintain their shape.
Continue to pan-fry the remaining cakes, adding more oil as needed. After they’re all cooked, it’s time to serve them hot and enjoy! They can be garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dollop of yogurt if you like.

Things Worth Knowing

Using fresh sweet potatoes will enhance the flavor significantly compared to canned ones.
For an even crispier texture, let the patties rest for a few minutes before frying.
Adjust the level of cinnamon to your taste; you can add more or try other spices like nutmeg.
Make sure to use enough oil in the skillet; this helps achieve that golden crust you’re looking for.

Tips and Variations

There are endless ways to enhance your Sweet Potato Cakes. Here are some tips and variations you might consider:

Storage: Leftover cakes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven or skillet for the best results.
Freezing: These cakes freeze well! Place cooked cakes in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be reheated directly from frozen.
Pairing: Serve these cakes alongside a fresh salad or with a tangy dipping sauce for a delightful contrast.
Herb Infusion: Consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to the mixture for an aromatic twist.
Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of brown sugar based on your preference for sweetness. You can reduce it for a less sweet cake.
Spice Variations: Experiment with spices like cumin or smoked paprika for a different flavor profile.

Accompaniments for Sweet Potato Cakes

When it comes to serving Sweet Potato Cakes, the options are plentiful. Here are some ideas to make your meal complete:

Fresh Salads: Pair the cakes with a light green salad dressed with a citrus vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
Yogurt Sauce: A dollop of yogurt mixed with herbs can serve as a delicious dip.
Seasonal Sides: During the fall, roasted vegetables or a warm quinoa salad complement the flavors wonderfully.
Occasions: These cakes are perfect for Thanksgiving dinner or any cozy family gathering.
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in the refrigerator. They can be reheated on a skillet for that crispy texture!
Quick Lunch: They make for an excellent lunch option, served with some greens or in a sandwich.

FAQ

Absolutely! You can prepare the Sweet Potato Cakes mixture ahead of time. Just store it in the refrigerator and shape the patties right before cooking. Alternatively, you can cook the cakes and reheat them when you’re ready to serve. They make a great meal prep option!

Sweet Potato Cakes pair beautifully with a variety of sides. You can serve them with a fresh salad, a yogurt dip, or even alongside roasted vegetables. They’re versatile enough to complement any meal!

Yes! Sweet Potato Cakes freeze quite well. After cooking, let them cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. You can reheat them straight from the freezer!

Sweet Potato Cakes are a nutritious option since they feature sweet potatoes, which are high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They are a good source of complex carbohydrates and can be a part of a balanced diet.

Conclusion

In summary, Sweet Potato Cakes are a delightful dish that combines comfort and nutrition in every bite. Their crispy exterior and soft, sweet interior make them irresistible. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for any occasion and will surely impress your family and friends.