Name: Sweet Potato Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1½ cups mashed sweet potatoes; 1 box yellow cake mix; ¾ cup milk; ⅓ cup vegetable oil; 4 large eggs; 2 tsp ground cinnamon; 2 packages cream cheese (8-oz each, room temperature); 6 Tbsp unsalted butter (softened); 3 cups powdered sugar; ¼ tsp salt; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; ½ cup chopped pecans; 2 Tbsp caramel sauce

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There’s something incredibly comforting about a slice of Sweet Potato Cake. I remember the first time I baked it; the aroma of warm spices filled my kitchen. It was a chilly fall afternoon, and I craved something sweet yet wholesome. This cake quickly became a family favorite, adored by both kids and adults alike. The combination of moist sweet potatoes, fluffy cake, and rich cream cheese frosting makes every bite a delightful experience. Whether it’s a festive gathering or just a casual family dinner, this cake shines in any setting. Whenever I prepare it, I’m flooded with memories of laughter and joy shared around the table. If you’re looking for a treat that brings warmth and happiness, look no further than this Sweet Potato Cake.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
45 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
4 g

Diet:
Paleo, Gluten-Free, AIP

Fat:
18 g

Tools Used:
Mixing Bowls, Hand Mixer, 9×13-inch Cake Pan

The Magic of This Sweet Potato Cake

A Celebration of Fall Flavors

The Sweet Potato Cake embodies everything I love about fall. The sweet potatoes bring a natural sweetness that’s enhanced by warm spices like cinnamon. Each forkful reminds me of cozy nights spent with loved ones, making it a go-to comfort food.

Easy to Make

This recipe is simple enough for a novice baker yet impressive enough for seasoned chefs. With straightforward steps and common ingredients, you can whip it up without any fuss. It’s the perfect project for a busy day when you want something delicious without spending all afternoon in the kitchen.

Versatile Frosting Options

The frosting is just as flexible as the cake itself. While I love the rich cream cheese frosting, feel free to get creative! A light whipped cream or even a simple dusting of powdered sugar can take this cake in a different direction, depending on your mood or the occasion.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This cake is not just for Thanksgiving. Its delightful flavors make it perfect for birthday parties, potlucks, or as a sweet treat during the week. Every time I serve it, I’m met with smiles and requests for the recipe, which makes my heart full.

A Slice of Nostalgia

For me, this Sweet Potato Cake is a nostalgic dish that bridges generations. My grandmother’s recipe has been passed down, and every time I bake it, I think of her guidance and love. It’s a sweet way to keep her memory alive, sharing her legacy through this beloved dessert.

Healthier Ingredients

Sweet potatoes are packed with nutrients, making this cake a bit healthier than traditional options. It’s a wonderful way to indulge without completely derailing your healthy eating goals. Plus, you can feel good about serving it to your family.

Essential Ingredients for Sweet Potato Cake

The ingredients for Sweet Potato Cake come together beautifully, each playing a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavors. The star, of course, is the mashed sweet potatoes, which not only provide natural sweetness but also moisture. The yellow cake mix forms a fluffy base, while the cream cheese adds richness to the frosting. Together, these ingredients deliver a cake that’s both satisfying and delicious.

1½ cups mashed sweet potatoes: This is the heart of the cake, giving it moisture and a sweet, earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with spices.
1 box yellow cake mix: This acts as the foundation for the cake, making it light and fluffy with minimal effort.
¾ cup milk: Milk is essential for achieving the right batter consistency, ensuring the cake stays moist during baking.
⅓ cup vegetable oil: This adds richness and helps keep the cake moist.
4 large eggs: Eggs are crucial for binding the ingredients together and providing structure.
2 tsp ground cinnamon: A warm spice that enhances the sweetness of the sweet potatoes and adds depth to the flavor.
2 (8-oz) packages cream cheese, room temperature: Cream cheese is the key ingredient for a rich and creamy frosting that complements the cake perfectly.
6 tbsp unsalted butter, softened: Butter adds richness and flavor to the frosting.
3 cups powdered sugar: This sweetens the frosting and helps achieve the desired consistency.
¼ tsp salt: A small amount of salt enhances all the flavors in the cake and frosting.
2 tsp vanilla extract: Vanilla adds a pleasant aroma and flavor to the frosting.
1 tsp ground cinnamon: Adding an extra touch of cinnamon to the frosting ties the flavors together.
½ cup chopped pecans: These add a delightful crunch and contrast to the soft cake and rich frosting.
2 tbsp caramel sauce: A drizzle on top adds an extra layer of sweetness and visual appeal.

The Process for Making Sweet Potato Cake

Making Sweet Potato Cake is a delightful journey where every step brings you closer to a delicious dessert. Follow along as we create this scrumptious cake together, using simple ingredients that blend beautifully into something extraordinary.

Preheat your oven to 350ºF. It’s important to have the oven ready to ensure even baking. While the oven heats, take a moment to prepare your 9×13-inch baking pan by spraying it with nonstick cooking spray. This step is crucial to ensure your cake comes out easily.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, milk, vegetable oil, eggs, ground cinnamon, and mashed sweet potatoes. Using an electric mixer on medium speed, mix everything until smooth and well blended. You’re looking for a batter that’s creamy and free of lumps.
Once your batter is ready, pour it into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. This helps it bake uniformly. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 28 to 32 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs attached.
After baking, allow the cake to cool completely on a wire rack. Cooling is essential as it ensures the cake sets properly, making frosting easier.
While the cake cools, prepare your frosting. In a medium bowl, beat together the cream cheese and butter using an electric mixer on medium speed until creamy. You want a smooth, fluffy texture without any lumps.
Gradually add in the powdered sugar, cinnamon, and salt, beating until everything is well blended. Stir in the vanilla extract carefully, ensuring it’s evenly mixed into the frosting.
Once the cake is entirely cool, spread the luscious cream cheese frosting generously over the top. Take your time to ensure it covers the cake beautifully.
Finally, sprinkle the chopped pecans over the frosting, followed by a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra touch of sweetness and visual appeal.

Things Worth Knowing

Cooling Time is Crucial: Make sure to let your cake cool completely before frosting. This avoids melting the frosting and ensures a clean cut when serving.
Fresh Sweet Potatoes: For the best flavor, use fresh sweet potatoes that are soft and sweet. You can roast them beforehand for an extra depth of flavor.
Frosting Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment with your frosting. You can add lemon zest or orange zest for a refreshing twist.
Storage Tips: Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.

Customization Ideas

The Sweet Potato Cake is wonderfully versatile and can be customized to suit your taste. Here are some ideas to inspire you to make it your own:

Add Spices: Feel free to add spices like nutmeg, allspice, or ginger to enhance the flavor profile of the cake.
Substitute Ingredients: You can use different flavored cake mixes for a unique twist. Spice cake mixes work particularly well.
Frosting Alternatives: Instead of cream cheese frosting, try a whipped cream topping or a chocolate ganache for a different taste experience.
Nut Variations: If you’re not a fan of pecans, consider using walnuts or omitting nuts altogether for a smoother texture.
Layer the Cake: For special occasions, consider making a layered cake by baking two rounds and stacking them with frosting in between.
Mix In Chocolate Chips: Adding chocolate chips to the batter can create a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
Top with Fruits: Fresh sliced fruits like bananas or strawberries can add a fresh touch to your cake when served.

Perfect Matches for Sweet Potato Cake

Serving your Sweet Potato Cake can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to consider:

Perfect for Thanksgiving: This cake is an ideal dessert for Thanksgiving gatherings, complementing roasted turkey and savory sides beautifully.
Pair with Coffee: Serve a slice alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
Special Celebrations: Consider this cake for birthdays or family get-togethers. It’s always a hit!
Seasonal Events: This cake shines during fall and winter holidays, making it perfect for festive events.
Lunch or Dinner Dessert: It also makes a lovely dessert after a hearty lunch or dinner, giving a sweet finish to your meal.
Easy Storage: Store any leftovers in the fridge, and it stays delicious for days, making it a convenient choice for busy weeks.

FAQ

Yes, you can use canned sweet potatoes as a shortcut. Just make sure to drain them well before mashing to avoid excess moisture in your cake. However, fresh sweet potatoes often provide a richer flavor and better texture, so if you have the time, I recommend using fresh.

If you need to make this Sweet Potato Cake gluten-free, you can use a gluten-free yellow cake mix. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free, including the baking powder and any spices used. The result will be just as delicious!

To store leftovers, keep the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for about 4 to 5 days. If you notice the frosting becoming too soft, you can refrigerate it for a bit to firm it up before serving again.

Absolutely! You can freeze the Sweet Potato Cake either whole or in slices. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It should retain its quality for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Conclusion

The Sweet Potato Cake is truly a delightful treat that combines rich flavors with a soft texture, perfect for any occasion. It’s not just a recipe; it’s a slice of nostalgia and warmth that can be shared with loved ones, making it a must-try. I encourage you to bake this cake and experience the joy it brings. Whether for a holiday or just a simple family gathering, it’s sure to be a hit that leaves everyone wanting more!