Southern Sweet Potato Cake Recipe

If you’ve ever wondered how to capture the heartwarming flavors of the South in one delightful dessert, look no further than this Southern Sweet Potato Cake Recipe. It’s a luscious, spice-kissed cake bursting with tender mashed sweet potatoes and crunchy pecans, all wrapped up in a creamy, dreamy cream cheese frosting. Every bite feels like a comforting hug, perfect for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or whenever you crave something sweet with a soulful Southern twist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Southern Sweet Potato Cake Recipe relies on simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create a harmony of flavors and textures. Each component plays its part, from the warm spices that add depth, to the pecans bringing a delightful crunch, and the sweet potatoes that make the cake moist and tender.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the perfect structure for a light yet moist cake.
• 2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the cake rise to fluffy perfection.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Adds a slight tenderness and helps balance the cake’s acidity.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the sweet and spicy flavors.
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: Offers that warm, familiar spice of the South.
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds depth and a subtle richness to the spice blend.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger: Brings a gentle zing that enlivens the cake’s flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves: Contributes a hint of aromatic complexity.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake without overpowering.
• 1 cup packed brown sugar: Adds moisture and a caramel-like note.
• 4 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and give the cake a rich texture.
• 1 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Infuses the batter with a lovely, fragrant sweetness.
• 2 cups cooked, mashed sweet potatoes: The star ingredient that makes this cake uniquely Southern and irresistibly moist.
• 1 cup chopped pecans: Adds a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
• For the frosting: 8 ounces cream cheese, 1/2 cup unsalted butter, 4 cups powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/4 cup milk—all blended to make a smooth, creamy topping that balances the spices beautifully.

How to Make Southern Sweet Potato Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pans and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to ensure your cake won’t stick and will come out with perfect edges. This simple prep step sets the stage for baking success.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Sifting blends the spices evenly, preventing clumps and ensuring each bite is packed with flavor.

Step 3: Cream Sugars and Eggs

In a separate big bowl, beat the granulated sugar and brown sugar with the eggs until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This process incorporates air, helping your cake rise and develop a tender crumb.

Step 4: Add Oil and Vanilla

Slowly mix in the vegetable oil and vanilla extract to your sugar and egg blend. This enriches the batter while maintaining moisture that keeps the cake luscious.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Over-mixing can toughen the cake, so gentle folding keeps it tender and light.

Step 6: Fold in Sweet Potatoes and Pecans

Gently fold in the cooked, mashed sweet potatoes and chopped pecans, distributing them evenly throughout the batter. The sweet potatoes elevate moisture and flavor, while pecans add a satisfying crunch with every bite.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Divide the batter equally between the two prepared pans and place in the oven. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma from the spices and sweet potatoes filling your kitchen is truly irresistible.

Step 8: Cool the Cakes

Once baked, allow your cakes to cool for 10 minutes in the pans before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. This cooling step is crucial for a smooth frosting application.

Step 9: Make the Frosting

Beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until creamy and smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk, beating until the frosting feels light and fluffy—just the right balance to complement the spiced cake.

Step 10: Assemble and Frost

Once your cakes are fully cool, spread a generous layer of frosting on top of one layer, then carefully place the second cake on top. Cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting, smoothing it evenly across the top and sides. For that final touch, sprinkle additional chopped pecans on top if you like a little extra crunch and visual appeal.

How to Serve Southern Sweet Potato Cake Recipe

Garnishes

Although the pecan garnish is a classic, consider adding a dusting of cinnamon or a few toasted pecan halves atop the frosting to enhance both the look and flavor. A light drizzle of honey or maple syrup can also add a lovely sweet gloss that complements the cake’s warmth.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or a creamy chai latte, both drinks enhancing the cinnamon and spiced notes. For an indulgent treat, serve alongside vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, creating a contrast between warm spiced cake and cool, creamy sides.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the cake into small squares or layering it into parfait cups with a few spoonfuls of spiced whipped cream and chopped pecans for a festive buffet. Alternatively, decorating the cake with candied sweet potato cubes can make for an eye-catching centerpiece that sparks conversation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover cake tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, this Southern Sweet Potato Cake Recipe will stay fresh and moist for about 4 to 5 days.

Freezing

This cake freezes beautifully. Wrap individual slices or the whole cake in plastic wrap and then foil before placing it in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator. The texture and flavor will remain delightful.

Reheating

If you want to enjoy your cake warm, gently reheat a slice in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. This slight warmth enhances the cream cheese frosting’s creaminess and releases some aromatic spices, making each bite extra comforting.

FAQs

Can I substitute the vegetable oil with butter?

Absolutely! Butter will add a richer flavor to your cake, but it can make the texture slightly denser. If using butter, melt it first and allow it to cool before adding, to maintain the proper consistency of the batter.

Do I have to use fresh cooked sweet potatoes?

Fresh cooked and mashed sweet potatoes work best because they provide moisture and natural sweetness, but canned sweet potatoes can be a convenient substitute. Just be sure to drain excess liquid to avoid a soggy batter.

Is this Southern Sweet Potato Cake Recipe gluten-free friendly?

This recipe is not gluten-free as it calls for all-purpose flour, but you can experiment with gluten-free flour blends. Make sure to choose one designed for baking to get the best texture results.

Can I make this cake vegan?

To make a vegan version, you’d need to substitute the eggs, cream cheese, and butter with plant-based alternatives. Aquafaba or flax eggs can replace eggs, while vegan cream cheese and margarine will work for the frosting. Expect subtle changes in texture and flavor, but it’s definitely doable!

What’s the best way to ensure the cake is fully baked?

Use a toothpick or cake tester inserted in the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your cake is done. Avoid overbaking, which can dry out the cake.

Final Thoughts

This Southern Sweet Potato Cake Recipe is more than just dessert; it’s a delicious slice of Southern hospitality and warmth you can share with those you love. From the exquisite blend of spices to the creamy frosting and crunchy pecans, every element has been crafted to delight your senses. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own classic!

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