Southern Sweet Potato Cake Recipe

If you’ve ever dreamed of a dessert that captures the comforting heart of Southern cooking with a beautifully moist texture and a delightful blend of warm spices, then this Southern Sweet Potato Cake Recipe is your new best friend. It’s a luscious celebration of mashed sweet potatoes blended seamlessly into a spiced cake batter, layered and finished with a dreamy cream cheese frosting that balances sweetness with just the right tang. This cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a slice of Southern hospitality on a plate, perfect for gatherings or whenever you crave a comforting, homemade treat that feels like a warm hug.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Nothing here is complicated, and each ingredient brings something special to the party — from the spices that infuse the cake with classic Southern warmth to the sweet potatoes that add moisture and flavor, every component matters.

• All-purpose flour: The sturdy base that holds this cake together with the perfect crumb.
• Baking powder and baking soda: These are your secret agents for lightness and fluffiness.
• Salt: Enhances all the sweet, spiced flavors perfectly without being overpowering.
• Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves: A soulful Southern spice blend that creates the cake’s unforgettable aroma and taste.
• Granulated sugar and brown sugar: A duo that sweetens while adding a deep, caramel-like richness.
• Eggs: Bind everything and give structure with a silky texture.
• Vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender without weighing it down.
• Vanilla extract: A warm hug of sweetness that rounds out the spices beautifully.
• Cooked, mashed sweet potatoes: The star ingredient adding moisture, natural sweetness, and that unmistakable Southern charm.
• Chopped pecans: A crunchy touch that provides a wonderful textural contrast.
• Cream cheese and unsalted butter: For the frosting, bringing richness and smoothness.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting to the perfect fluffy consistency.
• Milk: Lightens the frosting and helps achieve that creamy spreadable texture.

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) and prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing and flouring them. This step ensures your cake layers bake evenly and release effortlessly when they’re ready.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and the dreamy Southern spice blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Setting aside the dry mix at this point helps create a perfectly balanced batter that’s both tender and flavorful.

Step 3: Cream Sugars and Eggs

In a separate large bowl, beat the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and eggs until the mixture is thick, creamy, and holds a light, fluffy texture. This combination is key for a cake that’s rich and sweet, yet not overly dense.

Step 4: Add Oil and Vanilla

Slowly mix in the vegetable oil and vanilla extract. This adds moisture and that warm hallmark flavor you expect from a good Southern Sweet Potato Cake Recipe.

Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually incorporate the flour and spice mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring just until everything is combined. This prevents overmixing, which can make the cake tough instead of tender.

Step 6: Fold in Sweet Potatoes and Pecans

Now gently fold in the cooked, mashed sweet potatoes and chopped pecans so they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter, giving you bursts of sweet softness and crunchy texture in every bite.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly into your prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in their pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely before frosting.

Step 8: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

Cream together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and luscious. Gradually beat in the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until the frosting is light, fluffy, and just right to spread on your cake layers.

Step 9: Assemble Your Southern Sweet Potato Cake Recipe

Spread a generous layer of frosting on one cake layer, then place the second cake on top and cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting. Add extra chopped pecans on top for a finishing touch if you like some crunch with your slice.

How to Serve Southern Sweet Potato Cake Recipe

Garnishes

Beyond the chopped pecans on top, consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of honey for extra flair. A few candied pecans or toasted coconut flakes can elevate the presentation and add more texture to each bite.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. For brunch or a holiday dessert spread, a bold cup of coffee or a glass of chilled spiced cider complements the cake’s richness beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the Southern Sweet Potato Cake Recipe into small squares for bite-sized party treats, or turn it into a layered trifle by breaking up cake layers and alternating with frosting and toasted pecans in a glass bowl. It’s versatile enough to wow however you choose to share it.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover cake tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will keep the frosting fresh and the cake moist for up to 4 days, making it perfect for enjoying a slice or two later.

Freezing

You can freeze the Southern Sweet Potato Cake Recipe either before or after frosting. Wrap individual layers separately in plastic wrap and foil, then place in a freezer bag. Frozen cake lasts for up to 2 months and thaws beautifully in the fridge overnight.

Reheating

For a fresh-from-the-oven feel, reheat slices gently in the microwave for 15-20 seconds. Avoid heating too long, especially with frosting, to keep it from melting. Alternatively, let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor experience.

FAQs

Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Canned sweet potatoes work well if you’re in a pinch — just be sure to drain and mash them thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the batter.

Is it possible to make this Southern Sweet Potato Cake Recipe gluten-free?

Yes, substituting all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend works nicely. Be sure to keep the other ingredients the same and monitor baking time as gluten-free flours can sometimes bake faster.

How long will this cake stay moist?

If stored properly in the refrigerator, this cake stays moist and delicious for up to 4 days, thanks to the moist sweet potatoes and oil in the batter.

Can I bake this cake in one pan instead of two?

You could, but baking times will need to be adjusted. Expect a longer baking time, and use a toothpick to check doneness regularly. It might be denser, so two layers usually yield the best texture.

What’s the best way to ensure my cake layers bake evenly?

Make sure your oven is fully preheated and that the cake pans are properly greased and floured. Dividing the batter evenly and rotating pans halfway through baking also helps achieve consistent layers.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about this Southern Sweet Potato Cake Recipe — it brings the flavors and soul of Southern kitchens right to your table, wrapped up in a gently spiced, tender cake with creamy frosting on top. Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion or just to treat yourself, I guarantee it will become a beloved classic in your recipe box. So go ahead, give it a try, and savor every sweet, comforting bite!

Southern Sweet Potato Cake Recipe

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• Author: admin
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x

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Description

This Southern Sweet Potato Cake is a moist and flavorful dessert perfect for fall gatherings or any special occasion. Featuring a spiced cake base with mashed sweet potatoes and crunchy pecans, it’s topped with a rich, creamy cream cheese frosting that balances the warm spices beautifully. This classic southern recipe combines comforting flavors with a luscious texture, making it a crowd-pleaser.

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Ingredients

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Cake Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups cooked, mashed sweet potatoes
• 1 cup chopped pecans

Frosting Ingredients

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup milk

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to prevent sticking and ensure easy cake removal.
2. Sift Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves to evenly distribute spices and leavening.
3. Beat Sugars and Eggs: In another large bowl, beat the granulated sugar and brown sugar with the eggs until the mixture is creamy and well combined.
4. Add Oil and Vanilla: Slowly incorporate the vegetable oil and vanilla extract into the sugar and egg mixture, mixing thoroughly until smooth.
5. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until the batter is combined to avoid overmixing which could toughen the cake.
6. Fold in Sweet Potatoes and Pecans: Gently fold in the mashed sweet potatoes and chopped pecans until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
7. Pour Batter into Pans: Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops.
8. Bake the Cakes: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the cakes are fully baked.
9. Cool the Cakes: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely, which helps preserve texture and prevent sogginess.
10. Prepare Frosting: Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy, forming the base of the frosting.
11. Add Powdered Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk to the cream cheese mixture, beating until light and fluffy to create a smooth frosting.
12. Assemble the Cake: Once the cakes are completely cool, spread a layer of frosting on top of one cake layer. Place the second layer on top, then frost the top and sides of the entire cake evenly.
13. Garnish and Serve: Optionally, garnish with additional chopped pecans on top of the frosting before serving for extra crunch and visual appeal.

Notes

• Ensure sweet potatoes are cooked and mashed thoroughly without lumps for a smooth batter.
• Do not overmix the batter once combined to maintain cake fluffiness.
• Use room temperature eggs and ingredients to help with proper mixing and texture.
• For extra moisture, you can brush cake layers with a light syrup before frosting.
• Store leftover cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For a nut-free version, omit pecans or substitute with seeds.

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Southern American