“Is that cake baking?” I overheard my neighbor whisper as the warm, spiced aroma wafted through our kitchens. That was the moment I realized homemade desserts have a magical way of connecting us, and nothing encapsulates that warmth quite like Grandma’s Famous Sweet Potato Butter Cake. This delightful cake transforms sweet potatoes into a rich, moist dessert that’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy afternoons at home. With a balance of comforting spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, it invites you to slow down and savor every bite. Plus, it’s easy to whip up and can even accommodate gluten-free options, making it a versatile choice for any occasion. Are you ready to discover the simple steps to make this cherished recipe?
Why is this cake so irresistible?
Rich, Spiced Flavor: The blend of sweet potatoes, cinnamon, and nutmeg creates a heavenly taste that dances on your palate, evoking the warmth of home.
Easy to Make: With just a few straightforward steps, you can whip up this cake even if you’re new to baking.
Versatile Options: Whether you prefer it with or without glaze, or want to try it gluten-free, this recipe adapts to your needs.
Perfect for Any Gathering: This cake is sure to impress, making it the ideal centerpiece for family gatherings or casual get-togethers.
Comforting Texture: Expect a moist, dense cake that satisfies like a rich pound cake, inviting you to indulge with every bite.
Try pairing it with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an unbeatable dessert experience!
Grandma’s Famous Sweet Potato Butter Cake Ingredients
For the Cake
• Mashed Sweet Potatoes – Provides natural sweetness and moisture; fresh is preferred for the best flavor, but canned can work if drained well.
• All-Purpose Flour – Adds structure to the cake; substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend if needed.
• Granulated Sugar – Contributes sweetness; can be reduced by up to ¼ cup without significant impact on texture.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; ensure it’s softened for easy mixing.
• Sour Cream – Delivers moisture and tanginess; Greek yogurt or buttermilk are great alternatives.
• Eggs – Binds the ingredients and adds structure; fresh eggs yield the best results.
• Baking Powder & Baking Soda – Provides leavening for that light texture we love.
• Salt – Essential for enhancing flavor.
• Ground Cinnamon & Nutmeg – Key spices that bring warmth and complexity, perfect for Grandma’s Famous Sweet Potato Butter Cake.
Optional Glaze
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and adds a lovely finish; can be enhanced with vanilla or almond extract.
• Milk or Cream – Thins the glaze to the desired consistency.
• Chopped Pecans or Walnuts – Adds crunch and richness; sprinkle on top if you desire more texture.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Grandma’s Famous Sweet Potato Butter Cake
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking. While the oven warms, generously grease and flour a 9×13-inch pan or a bundt pan, allowing it to ready for the delicious batter of Grandma’s Famous Sweet Potato Butter Cake. This step is crucial to prevent sticking and helps create a beautiful, golden crust.
Step 2: Mix Sweet Potatoes and Butter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, softened unsalted butter, and granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer on medium speed to beat the ingredients until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. The sweet potatoes should be fully integrated, creating a rich base for the cake that will infuse warmth and flavor.
Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Sour Cream
Add the eggs to the sweet potato mixture one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure a fluffy texture. Next, incorporate the sour cream and continue mixing until the batter is well combined, roughly 1-2 minutes. You’ll notice the mixture becoming lighter and fluffier, ready to accept the dry ingredients.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until evenly mixed. This step ensures no clumps remain, allowing for an even rise as Grandma’s Famous Sweet Potato Butter Cake bakes. The wonderful aroma of spices will start to fill your kitchen, adding to the excitement.
Step 5: Fold in the Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet batter, using a rubber spatula or wooden spoon. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix, which could result in a dense cake. You want the batter to be thick and smooth, showcasing the beautiful colors of the sweet potatoes and spices.
Step 6: Pour Batter into Prepared Pan
Once the batter is mixed to perfection, pour it into the prepared pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top evenly, ensuring it’s level to promote even baking. The batter should fill about two-thirds of the pan, providing enough room for rising while baking Grandma’s Famous Sweet Potato Butter Cake.
Step 7: Bake the Cake
Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 45-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the cake as it bakes, and if you see the top turning golden brown, you’ll know it’s on the right track to becoming a delightful treat.
Step 8: Cool the Cake
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. After cooling slightly, carefully turn the cake out onto a wire rack. This allows air to circulate around the cake, preventing it from becoming soggy and ensuring a perfect texture.
Step 9: Glaze if Desired
If you’d like to add a sweet glaze, prepare it after the cake has cooled completely. Drizzle your glaze over the top, allowing it to set slightly before serving. This finishing touch enhances the sweetness and adds a glossy appearance to Grandma’s Famous Sweet Potato Butter Cake, perfect for any occasion.
Expert Tips for Grandma’s Famous Sweet Potato Butter Cake
Moisture Matters: Avoid overbaking the cake to keep it moist. Check for doneness at 45 minutes to ensure it’s perfectly tender.
Careful Measuring: For the best texture, spoon flour into your measuring cup rather than scooping straight from the bag, which can lead to too much flour being used.
Flavor Boost: Allow the cake to rest for 1-2 days before serving. The flavors deepen, making Grandma’s Famous Sweet Potato Butter Cake even more delicious!
Canned Sweet Potatoes: If using canned sweet potatoes, be sure to drain well and mash thoroughly to prevent excess moisture that can affect the cake’s texture.
Egg Temperature: Use room temperature eggs for a smoother batter and better incorporation. This helps achieve that light, fluffy result we all love!
Make Ahead Options
Busy home cooks will love the convenience of preparing Grandma’s Famous Sweet Potato Butter Cake in advance! You can mash the sweet potatoes and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Additionally, the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, spices, and salt) can be mixed together and kept in a separate container for up to 1 week. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the mashed sweet potatoes with the wet ingredients, integrate the dry mix, and pour it into the prepared pan. This way, you’ll save precious time on busy days and enjoy a delightful dessert that’s just as moist and flavorful as when made fresh!
What to Serve with Grandma’s Famous Sweet Potato Butter Cake
The aroma of spiced cake wafting through your home is an invitation to create a complete, cozy meal experience.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery richness smooths out the sweet spices in the cake, offering a comforting balance.
- Tender Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slight bitterness and crisp edges beautifully contrast the sweetness of the cake, making each bite memorable.
- Fresh Garden Salad: A refreshing mix of greens and herbs elevates the meal, lending a textural crunch and brightness that cuts through the cake’s richness.
- Maple Glazed Carrots: Their natural sweetness harmonizes with the cake’s flavors while providing a delightful color splash to your plate.
- Warm Apple Cider: This cozy drink complements the cake’s spiced aroma, enhancing the overall comfort of your dessert experience.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop serves as a perfect foil to the cake’s dense texture, creating a melt-in-your-mouth sensation that feels indulgent.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop atop the cake adds an extra rich layer, enhancing the sweetness and inviting you to savor every bite.
- Chai Latte: The aromatic spices echo those in the cake, making for a warming beverage that enhances your dessert experience.
Grandma’s Famous Sweet Potato Butter Cake Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize this delightful recipe! Share the joy with loved ones as you experiment with different flavors and textures.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend to make a cake suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
- Pumpkin Twist: Swap mashed sweet potatoes for pumpkin puree for a different take on this comforting cake. It’s like a cozy hug in dessert form!
- Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter for added texture and flavor, creating a delightful contrast to the moist cake.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper for a hint of heat that beautifully complements the warmth of the spices.
- Fancy Glaze: Mix vanilla or almond extract into the glaze for an aromatic finish; sprinkle with nuts for a crunch!
- Mini Servings: Bake the batter in cupcake liners, reducing baking time to 18-22 minutes for adorable, personal-sized treats.
- Creamy Substitute: Replace sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist and a protein boost; it’s a deliciously healthy swap!
- Syrupy Delight: Drizzle warm maple syrup over each slice before serving, adding extra sweetness and a comforting element to your cake experience.
For an unforgettable dessert experience, you can also serve it with a scoop of ice cream or alongside a festive Cinnamon Buttermilk Pancakes brunch!
Storage Tips for Grandma’s Famous Sweet Potato Butter Cake
Room Temperature: Store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain the cake’s moisture and flavor.
Fridge: If you wish to keep it longer, refrigerate for up to a week, wrapping it tightly to prevent it from drying out.
Freezer: Freeze unglazed slices of Grandma’s Famous Sweet Potato Butter Cake for up to 3 months. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and foil for best results.
Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes for a delightful, warm treat.
Grandma’s Famous Sweet Potato Butter Cake Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best sweet potatoes for this cake?
Absolutely! Look for firm sweet potatoes that have smooth skin and no dark spots. Fresh sweet potatoes will provide the best flavor and moisture for Grandma’s Famous Sweet Potato Butter Cake. If you can, choose those that feel heavy for their size, indicating good moisture content.
What is the best way to store Grandma’s Famous Sweet Potato Butter Cake?
To keep your cake fresh, store it covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to enjoy it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week, tightly wrapped to prevent drying out. For longer storage, freeze unglazed slices for up to 3 months. Just wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then foil, for best results!
Can I freeze Grandma’s Famous Sweet Potato Butter Cake?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the cake cool completely, then slice it if desired. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature before reheating.
What if my cake comes out too dense?
Very! If your cake turns out dense, there are a few things you can check. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture, so mix the wet and dry ingredients just until combined. Also, ensure your leavening agents (baking powder and baking soda) are fresh, as expired ones won’t provide the necessary rise. Lastly, try measuring your flour by spooning it into your measuring cup to avoid packing too much.
Are there any dietary considerations for this cake, like allergies or pets?
Definitely! Grandma’s Famous Sweet Potato Butter Cake is vegetarian and can be made gluten-free by using a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend instead of all-purpose flour. Just be cautious about any allergies – for instance, if you use nuts in the glaze, ensure guests are aware. As for pets, ingredients like sugar and chocolate should never be given to dogs or cats, so it’s best to keep this delicious treat just for human enjoyment!
How can I enhance the sweetness without adding too much sugar?
I often make slight adjustments to the sugar content! You can reduce the granulated sugar by up to ¼ cup without impacting the texture too much. Additionally, consider using naturally sweet ingredients such as very ripe bananas or adding a swirl of maple syrup for an extra layer of sweetness while still enjoying that rich, sweet potato flavor!
Grandma’s Famous Sweet Potato Butter Cake: A Cozy Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour a 9x13-inch pan or a bundt pan.
- Combine the mashed sweet potatoes, softened butter, and granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then incorporate the sour cream.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top evenly.
- Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack.
- Prepare the glaze if desired and drizzle it over the cooled cake.
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