A Moist, Flavorful Southern Classic Everyone Will Love
Discover the heartwarming taste of Grandma’s Famous Sweet Potato Butter Cake—a nostalgic dessert that brings the family together with every bite. Whether you’re baking for Sunday dinner or a cozy fall gathering, this cake is the perfect sweet treat to share.
Introduction
Some recipes have a way of weaving themselves into the very fabric of our memories. Grandma’s Famous Sweet Potato Butter Cake is one of those recipes. Rich, moist, and gently spiced, this Southern classic is more than just a dessert—it’s a slice of tradition.
Whether it’s the holidays, a potluck, or a quiet afternoon at home, this cake has been winning hearts across generations. The creamy mashed sweet potatoes blend seamlessly with warm spices and butter, creating a tender crumb that melts in your mouth.
If you’re searching for a dessert that feels like home and tastes like love, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s get baking!
Tools Needed, Servings, and Cooking Time
Before diving into the recipe, it’s important to have the right tools and expectations.
Tools Needed
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Large mixing bowl
- Medium mixing bowl
- Hand or stand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Cooling rack
- Toothpick (for doneness check)
Serves:
12–15 people
Prep Time:
20 minutes
Cook Time:
30–35 minutes
Total Time:
50–55 minutes
Ingredients
You’ll need pantry staples plus one golden ingredient: sweet potatoes. Make sure they’re fully cooked and cooled before using.
- 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
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan thoroughly. You can also line it with parchment paper for easier removal later.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use your hand or stand mixer to cream together the softened butter and sugar. Mix for about 3–5 minutes until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is essential for giving your cake a tender, airy texture.
Step 3: Add the Eggs
Crack the eggs into the bowl, adding them one at a time. Beat each egg well before adding the next. This ensures that the eggs emulsify properly with the butter mixture.
Step 4: Mix in Sweet Potatoes and Vanilla
Stir in the mashed sweet potatoes and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and fully incorporated. The sweet potatoes not only add flavor but also make the cake incredibly moist.
Step 5: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients ahead of time ensures even distribution.
Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the flour mixture. Mix on low speed and only until just combined—overmixing can make the cake tough.
Step 7: Pour and Smooth
Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to spread the batter evenly across the pan, ensuring an even bake.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Place the pan in the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes. The cake is ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs.
Step 9: Cool It Down
Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps preserve the cake’s delicate structure.
Step 10: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the cake as is, or elevate it with a dollop of whipped cream, a dusting of powdered sugar, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Recommendations for Recipe Success
- Use real sweet potatoes – Freshly cooked and mashed sweet potatoes offer better texture and flavor than canned versions.
- Do not overmix – Overmixing once the flour is added can lead to a dense, chewy cake. Mix just until ingredients are incorporated.
- Make it ahead – This cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
- Use room temperature ingredients – Butter, eggs, and buttermilk should be at room temperature to mix evenly and create a smoother batter.
- Customize your spice level – Feel free to add a pinch of ginger or cloves for an extra kick.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Ideas
- Top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
- Dust with powdered sugar for a simple finish
- Add chopped toasted pecans for a crunchy texture
- Pair with a hot cup of tea or coffee for the ultimate comfort
Storage
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerator: Will last up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
- Freezer: Freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored in a zip-top bag. Good for up to 2 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, but make sure they are drained and mashed well. Fresh sweet potatoes will give the best flavor and consistency.
2. Can this cake be made in advance?
Absolutely. It actually tastes better the next day, as the flavors have time to meld together.
3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Make sure it includes xanthan gum for structure.
4. Can I make cupcakes with this recipe?
Yes, simply divide the batter into cupcake liners in a muffin tin and reduce the baking time to about 20–25 minutes.
5. What can I use instead of buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk, combine 1/2 cup milk with 1/2 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes before using.
Conclusion
Grandma’s Famous Sweet Potato Butter Cake is more than just a recipe—it’s a beloved tradition passed down with love. With its moist crumb, rich buttery taste, and warm spices, it’s a dessert that comforts the soul and satisfies the sweet tooth.
Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this cake is easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Share it with your family, serve it at your next gathering, or enjoy a quiet slice on your own.
Ready to bring back the comforting flavors of home? Preheat that oven and start baking today—this is one recipe you’ll return to again and again.
