Grandma’s Famous Sweet Potato Butter Cake – A Southern Comfort Classic
This Sweet Potato Butter Cake is a refined Southern classic known for its rich, moist crumb and golden butter glaze. The blend of creamy mashed sweet potatoes, aromatic spices, and smooth vanilla creates a dessert that captures the comforting warmth of Southern hospitality in every bite.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups mashed cooked sweet potatoes approximately 2 medium
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ cup whole milk or buttermilk
For the Butter Glaze:
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour a Bundt pan or a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure easy release.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, combine softened butter and granulated sugar. Beat until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color, creating a smooth base for the cake.
- Incorporate the Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, blending well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the flavor and aroma of the batter.
- Add the Sweet Potatoes: Mix in the mashed sweet potatoes until the batter achieves a uniform texture and rich orange hue. This will contribute both moisture and flavor to the finished cake.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Ensure even distribution of leavening agents and spices.
- Alternate Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, alternating with the milk or buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined to maintain a tender crumb.
- Prepare for Baking: Transfer the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even rise.
- Bake the Cake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Prepare the Butter Glaze: While the cake bakes, melt butter in a small saucepan. Add granulated sugar and water, stirring constantly. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and simmer for 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract for added depth.
- Glaze the Cake: While the cake is still warm, use a skewer or toothpick to create small holes across the surface. Slowly pour the warm butter glaze over the cake, allowing it to absorb evenly into the crumb.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan before inverting onto a serving plate or slicing directly from the baking dish. Serve plain, with whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.
Notes
- Use Room-Temperature Ingredients: For the perfect texture, make sure the butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature before mixing. This ensures a smoother batter and an even bake.
- Buttermilk Boost: While whole milk works fine, buttermilk adds a subtle tang and enhances tenderness — a little Southern secret that makes your Sweet Potato Butter Cake extra soft.
- Don’t Overmix: Once you add the dry ingredients, mix only until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture instead of that velvety Southern crumb we’re after.
- Poke Generously: When applying the butter glaze, poke plenty of small holes throughout the cake to help it soak deeply, ensuring each bite is moist and rich.
- Flavor Matures Over Time: This Sweet Potato Butter Cake actually tastes better the next day as the flavors deepen and blend beautifully. Cover it tightly and let it rest overnight for the ultimate experience.
- Serving Suggestion: Enjoy warm slices with whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream — because moderation is overrated when it comes to Grandma’s recipes.
🍽️ Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – 1 Slice)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 410 kcal |
| Total Fat | 18 g |
| Saturated Fat | 11 g |
| Unsaturated Fat | 6 g |
| Cholesterol | 90 mg |
| Sodium | 210 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 59 g |
| Sugar | 38 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2 g |
| Protein | 5 g |
💡 Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.