Grandma’s Famous Sweet Potato Butter Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Grandma's Famous Sweet Potato Butter Cake is a nostalgic treat that combines the warmth of sweet potatoes with the comfort of butter and spices. The result is a moist, flavorful cake with a soft crumb that is perfect for any occasion. The sweet potatoes give it a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor, while the warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg add a cozy, aromatic touch. Whether you're serving it at a family dinner or enjoying it with a cup of tea, this cake is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 cup mashed sweet potatoes (cooked and cooled)

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 2 cups granulated sugar

• 4 large eggs

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• ½ cup buttermilk

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13-inch baking pan.

2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This will take about 3-4 minutes.

3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.

6. Gently fold in the mashed sweet potatoes, making sure they're evenly incorporated into the batter.

7. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula.

8. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

9. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12-16 slices (depending on portion size)

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 40-45 minutes

• Total time: 1 hour

Variations

• Topping: Add a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of cream cheese frosting on top for extra sweetness.

• Nuts: For added texture, fold in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter.

• Spices: Experiment with additional spices like cloves or ginger to enhance the flavor profile.

• Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version of this cake.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

• Reheating: To enjoy the cake warm, place a slice in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or heat it in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes.

FAQs

How can I make the cake even more moist?

To enhance the moisture of the cake, you can add a tablespoon of sour cream or yogurt to the batter. This will create a richer texture.

Can I use canned sweet potatoes?

Yes, you can use canned mashed sweet potatoes, but be sure to choose one without added sugar or preservatives for the best results.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, this cake can be made a day or two in advance. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

How can I make the cake less sweet?

If you prefer a less sweet cake, reduce the amount of sugar by ¼ to ½ cup, depending on your preference.

Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze this cake! Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Is there a substitute for buttermilk?

Yes, you can substitute buttermilk with a mixture of ½ cup milk and ½ tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before using.

Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes, you can use whole wheat flour for a slightly denser texture, or a gluten-free flour blend if you need a gluten-free option.

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, or with just a few moist crumbs. If the toothpick is wet with batter, bake for an additional 5 minutes and test again.

Can I add frosting to this cake?

Yes, you can top this cake with a simple glaze, whipped cream, or cream cheese frosting for an extra indulgence.

What can I serve this cake with?

This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee, tea, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert.

Conclusion

Grandma's Famous Sweet Potato Butter Cake is more than just a dessert—it's a piece of home. The combination of sweet potatoes, butter, and warm spices creates a cake that is moist, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a family gathering or enjoying it solo with a cup of tea, this cake is sure to leave everyone asking for seconds.