Sweet Potato Cake Recipe (with Video)

Sweet Potato Cake Recipe: There’s something downright magical about the rich, earthy sweetness of sweet potatoes when baked into a cake. A traditional Southern dessert, sweet potato cake is a warm, spiced delight that’s perfect for fall gatherings, holiday dinners, or just because. Think of it as the cozy cousin of carrot cake—only creamier, more vibrant, and packed with natural sweetness.

What makes sweet potato cake so special? It’s that rustic, homestyle flavor combined with the deep orange hue and soft texture of mashed sweet potatoes. This cake has been a staple in many kitchens for generations, particularly in the South, where sweet potatoes are a pantry essential. It blends tradition with comfort in every bite.

Plus, it’s one of those rare cakes that feel indulgent yet nourishing. Sweet potatoes are loaded with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. So, even though you’re enjoying dessert, you’re sneaking in a bit of nutrition. Now that’s a win-win!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Let’s be honest—everyone needs a cake recipe that’s easy, foolproof, and crowd-pleasing. This sweet potato cake checks all those boxes and more. Here’s why it deserves a permanent spot in your recipe book:

Moist and tender: Thanks to the sweet potatoes, this cake stays perfectly moist for days.
Flavor-packed: With warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, every bite tastes like fall.
Versatile: You can serve it with or without frosting, layer it, or bake it as cupcakes.
Make-ahead friendly: It keeps beautifully, so it’s ideal for prepping ahead of holidays or potlucks.
Customizable: Want to make it vegan, gluten-free, or nutty? You absolutely can.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a total newbie, this guide will walk you through everything you need—from selecting ingredients to serving the final slice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Main Ingredients for the Cake

Before you get baking, let’s round up the stars of the show. Here’s a list of core ingredients you’ll need to make the perfect sweet potato cake:

Sweet Potatoes (2 medium, cooked and mashed): The heart of the recipe. These bring moisture, sweetness, and a beautiful orange hue.
All-Purpose Flour (2 ½ cups): Provides structure to the cake.
Granulated Sugar (1 cup): Balances the earthy sweetness of the sweet potatoes.
Brown Sugar (½ cup): Adds depth and caramel notes.
Eggs (3 large): Help bind everything and add richness.
Vegetable Oil (¾ cup): Keeps the cake ultra-moist.
Baking Powder (2 teaspoons): For a light and fluffy rise.
Baking Soda (1 teaspoon): Works with the acids to lift the cake.
Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors.
Ground Cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Brings that cozy, spicy vibe.
Ground Nutmeg (½ teaspoon): Adds warmth.
Ground Ginger (¼ teaspoon): For a slight kick.

Pro Tip: Make sure your sweet potatoes are mashed until smooth. Lumps can make your batter uneven.

Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor

If you’re feeling fancy, here are some optional additions to elevate your cake:

Chopped Pecans or Walnuts (½ cup): Adds crunch and nutty flavor.
Raisins or Dried Cranberries (½ cup): A sweet, chewy contrast.
Maple Syrup or Honey (2 tablespoons): For a richer sweetness.
Orange Zest (1 teaspoon): Brightens up the flavor profile.

These little touches can take your sweet potato cake from amazing to unforgettable.

Frosting Ingredients

Now, what’s a cake without frosting? This cake pairs beautifully with cream cheese frosting, but buttercream or maple glaze also works great. For the classic option, you’ll need:

Cream Cheese (8 oz, softened): The creamy base.
Unsalted Butter (½ cup, softened): Adds richness and structure.
Powdered Sugar (3 cups): Sweetens and thickens.
Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): For flavor.
Cinnamon or Nutmeg (optional) (¼ teaspoon): Adds a spiced twist.

Feeling adventurous? Add a tablespoon of maple syrup or a dash of bourbon to your frosting!

Kitchen Tools Required

Essential Baking Equipment

To get this cake in the oven and onto your plate, you’ll need the right tools. Nothing fancy—just the basics:

Mixing Bowls: At least two—one for dry ingredients, one for wet.
Electric Mixer or Whisk: To blend everything smoothly.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy matters!
Rubber Spatula: For scraping down the bowl and folding ingredients.
Cake Pans (2 x 9-inch round or 1 x 9×13-inch): Greased and ready.
Cooling Rack: Helps the cake cool evenly.

Prep Tools You’ll Need

For prep work, especially the sweet potatoes, these tools will help:

Potato Masher or Food Processor: For a lump-free mash.
Knife and Peeler: To prep the sweet potatoes.
Baking Sheet or Saucepan: Depending on whether you roast or boil the potatoes.

Once you’ve gathered these tools and ingredients, you’re ready to dive into baking this delicious masterpiece.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Sweet Potato Cake

Step 1: Roast or Boil the Sweet Potatoes

Start by washing your sweet potatoes thoroughly. You can either roast them at 400°F (200°C) for about 45–60 minutes until soft and caramelized, or boil them for 20–25 minutes until tender. Roasting brings out a deeper flavor, while boiling is faster. Once cooked, peel and mash the potatoes into a smooth purée, ensuring there are no lumps.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until the blend is smooth and creamy. This wet base gives your cake that moist, tender texture.

Step 3: Mix the Wet and Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Gradually fold the dry mix into the wet ingredients until just combined—don’t overmix or the cake will turn dense.

Step 4: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter evenly into greased and lined cake pans. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25–35 minutes, depending on pan size. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Step 5: Let It Cool and Prepare the Frosting

Allow the cake layers to cool completely before frosting. For the frosting, beat cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until fluffy. Spread generously between layers and over the top. The result? A beautifully moist, spiced sweet potato cake with a silky cream cheese finish that melts in your mouth.

Frosting Your Sweet Potato Cake

Best Frosting Options

Choosing the right frosting for your sweet potato cake can elevate it from delicious to divine. While cream cheese frosting is the classic go-to, there are a few other mouthwatering options you might want to try:

Cream Cheese Frosting – Tangy and rich, this is a timeless pairing with sweet potato cake. It cuts through the sweetness and adds a smooth finish.
Brown Butter Frosting – This nutty, caramel-like frosting adds a gourmet flair. Perfect for special occasions.
Maple Glaze – Light and subtly sweet, a maple glaze is ideal if you want something less heavy but still flavorful.
Cinnamon Buttercream – Sweet and spicy, this frosting adds warmth and complexity to every bite.
Marshmallow Frosting – Great for a fun twist, especially if serving at fall-themed gatherings or around Thanksgiving.

Each of these options pairs wonderfully with the earthy sweetness of sweet potatoes and the warm spices in the cake. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a swirl of two frostings for a visual and flavor delight.

How to Make Cream Cheese Frosting

Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of making the perfect cream cheese frosting. This recipe is rich, fluffy, and spreads beautifully over cakes or cupcakes.

Ingredients:

8 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
3–4 cups powdered sugar (adjust based on desired sweetness and thickness)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional: ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon or nutmeg for a spiced touch

Instructions:

Beat the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and butter. Beat using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and lump-free—this takes about 2-3 minutes.
Sweeten It Up: Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time. Beat well after each addition. If the frosting becomes too thick, you can add a tablespoon of milk or heavy cream to loosen it.
Flavor and Finish: Add the vanilla extract and any optional spices. Beat on high speed for another minute until the frosting is fluffy and smooth.

Pro Tips:

Make sure both the cream cheese and butter are fully softened to avoid lumps.
Chill the frosting for 15–20 minutes if you want a firmer texture for decorating.
Want an extra flavor kick? Add a tablespoon of maple syrup or a splash of bourbon.

Once ready, slather this luscious frosting on your completely cooled cake. Use an offset spatula to create pretty swirls or smooth edges. It’s the cherry (or should we say frosting?) on top of a cake that’s already pure perfection.

Tips for the Best Sweet Potato Cake

How to Keep It Moist

There’s nothing worse than a dry cake, especially when sweet potatoes are involved. The good news? This cake is naturally moist thanks to the potatoes and oil, but here are a few key tips to make sure every bite is tender:

Measure Ingredients Correctly: Especially the flour. Always spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife—never scoop directly from the bag.
Don’t Overmix: Once you add the flour to your wet ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can make your cake tough.
Use Fresh Sweet Potatoes: The fresher and more flavorful your sweet potatoes, the better your cake will taste. Avoid canned yams if possible.
Room Temp Ingredients: Make sure your eggs, sweet potatoes, and dairy are at room temperature. This ensures a smoother batter and even baking.
Don’t Overbake: Start checking your cake 5 minutes before the recommended time. An overbaked cake can dry out fast.

One little secret? Brush the layers with a simple syrup made of sugar and water before frosting. It keeps them moist and adds a subtle sweetness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even seasoned bakers slip up occasionally. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid when baking sweet potato cake:

Using Canned Sweet Potatoes in Syrup: These can make your cake too sweet and watery. Stick to fresh or plain canned sweet potatoes without added syrup.
Not Cooling the Cake Before Frosting: Warm cake + frosting = disaster. Always let it cool completely.
Skipping the Sift: Sifting your dry ingredients helps avoid clumps and ensures even distribution.
Using Cold Frosting: Cold cream cheese frosting can tear your cake. Let it sit at room temp for a few minutes before spreading.
Not Prepping the Pan: Always grease and line your pans with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

By following these simple do’s and don’ts, you’ll bake a sweet potato cake that not only looks good but tastes out-of-this-world amazing.

Serving Suggestions

Perfect Pairings

Your sweet potato cake deserves the spotlight, but the right pairing can turn it into an unforgettable dessert experience. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner, holiday feast, or just a sweet snack, these pairings will elevate your presentation:

Hot Beverages: This cake pairs like a dream with warm drinks. Try it with:

Freshly brewed coffee (especially cinnamon or hazelnut blends)
Chai tea or spiced herbal tea
A rich cup of hot cocoa
Warm apple cider in the fall

Cold Beverages: Want a chilled option?

Cold brew coffee with a splash of cream
Milk (classic for a reason!)
Vanilla milkshake for dessert on dessert action

Fruit Compotes: A spoonful of cranberry or apple compote on the side adds a tart and tangy note that balances the richness of the cake.

Vanilla Ice Cream: You can’t go wrong with a scoop of vanilla or caramel swirl ice cream. The cold creaminess offsets the warm spice of the cake beautifully.

Candied Pecans: Scatter a few candied or toasted pecans on the plate for extra crunch and a gourmet touch.

This cake is versatile, which makes it ideal for both casual and elegant occasions. Whether served on a rustic wooden board or a fine china plate, it never fails to impress.

Creative Presentation Ideas

Presentation matters—especially when you’re hosting or showing off your baking skills on social media. Here are some visually appealing and Instagram-worthy ways to serve your sweet potato cake:

Layered Elegance: Bake the cake in two or three layers. Frost between each layer and around the sides, then decorate with a dusting of cinnamon and a ring of crushed nuts around the base.
Mini Cakes or Cupcakes: Turn this recipe into adorable mini versions. Bake in cupcake tins or small ramekins and top each with a swirl of cream cheese frosting and a pecan half.
Rustic Style: Go for a naked cake look. Just frost between layers and the top, leaving the sides exposed for a rustic, farmhouse vibe.
Bundt Cake Variation: Use a bundt pan and drizzle the frosting or maple glaze over the top. Simple yet stunning.
Topped with Roasted Sweet Potato Chips: For a show-stopping garnish, top the cake with crispy homemade sweet potato chips or thin slices caramelized with brown sugar.
Holiday Decor: Add sugared cranberries, cinnamon sticks, rosemary sprigs, or edible flowers to give the cake a seasonal, festive touch.

Great presentation not only boosts appeal but makes your dessert feel extra special. Whether you’re going casual or classy, this cake delivers every time.

Storing and Freezing the Cake

How to Store Leftovers

One of the best things about sweet potato cake is how well it holds up over time—if you manage to have any leftovers!

Short-Term Storage:

Room Temperature: If unfrosted, you can store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Refrigerated: Once frosted (especially with cream cheese frosting), it should be kept in the refrigerator. Store it in a covered cake container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap. It’ll stay moist and delicious for 4–5 days.

Reheating Tips:

Let refrigerated slices come to room temperature before serving.
You can also warm them in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to revive that fresh-baked feel.

Prevent Dryness: To keep slices moist, place a piece of bread in the container with the cake—seriously, it works!

How to Freeze for Long-Term Use

Want to bake ahead? This cake is freezer-friendly. Here’s how to do it right:

Freezing Unfrosted Cake:

Allow the cake to cool completely.
Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil.
Store in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container for up to 3 months.

Freezing Frosted Cake:

Chill the frosted cake in the fridge until the frosting is firm (about 1–2 hours).
Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze.
To thaw, remove the cake and let it sit in the fridge overnight, then bring to room temperature before serving.

Freezing Slices:

For individual servings, freeze slices with parchment paper between them and store in a ziplock bag.

Freezing sweet potato cake is an excellent way to plan ahead for holidays or to enjoy a slice of homemade goodness anytime a craving hits.

Variations and Add-Ins

Vegan and Gluten-Free Options

Whether you’re baking for dietary needs or just want a healthier twist, this sweet potato cake recipe is incredibly adaptable. With a few smart swaps, you can make it vegan or gluten-free without compromising flavor or texture.

For a Vegan Sweet Potato Cake:

Eggs: Replace each egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water, mixed and rested for 5 minutes).
Butter: Use plant-based butter or coconut oil for the frosting.
Cream Cheese: Go with vegan cream cheese (available at most grocery stores).
Milk (if used in frosting): Choose non-dairy options like almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk.

For a Gluten-Free Sweet Potato Cake:

Replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Look for one that includes xanthan gum for structure.
Ensure your baking powder and other ingredients are labeled gluten-free (some may contain trace gluten).

Bonus Tip: The natural binding properties of sweet potatoes actually help in vegan and gluten-free baking by adding structure and moisture, so this cake is perfect for such modifications.

Fun Twists: Nuts, Spices, and More

Want to take your sweet potato cake to the next level? Here are some fun mix-ins and flavor variations to personalize your bake:

Chopped Nuts: Pecans and walnuts add a lovely crunch. Toast them for deeper flavor.
Chocolate Chips: A handful of dark chocolate chips brings richness and pairs surprisingly well with sweet potato.
Shredded Coconut: For a tropical spin, add unsweetened shredded coconut to the batter or sprinkle on top.
Spice it Up: Boost the warmth with cloves, cardamom, or even a dash of cayenne for a subtle kick.
Crushed Pineapple: Add a ½ cup of drained crushed pineapple for extra moisture and a fruity undertone.
Caramel Drizzle: After frosting, drizzle with salted caramel for indulgent flair.
Bourbon or Rum: Add a tablespoon of your favorite spirit to the batter or frosting for a grown-up twist.

Mix and match to create your signature version of sweet potato cake. There’s no wrong way to bake this beauty!

Nutritional Information

Estimated Nutritional Breakdown

Here’s an approximate breakdown for one slice of sweet potato cake (based on a 12-slice round cake with cream cheese frosting):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	380–420 kcal
Carbohydrates	50g
Sugars	30g
Fat	18–22g
Saturated Fat	5g
Protein	4g
Fiber	3g
Sodium	250mg
Vitamin A	100% DV+

Note: These values may vary based on specific ingredients, portion size, and any add-ins used.

Health Benefits of Sweet Potato Cake

It might be a dessert, but there’s no denying the nutritional perks that sweet potatoes bring to the table. Here are a few reasons why this cake is more than just a sweet treat:

High in Vitamin A: Thanks to sweet potatoes, this cake supports eye health, immunity, and skin.
Fiber-Rich: The sweet potatoes and flour offer fiber that helps digestion.
Antioxidants Galore: Sweet potatoes contain beta-carotene and other antioxidants that combat inflammation.
Natural Sweetness: Reducing refined sugar is easier because sweet potatoes are naturally sweet and flavorful.

While this cake is still a dessert, it’s one of the more wholesome choices out there—and it’s perfect for satisfying cravings with a hint of nutrition.

FAQs about Sweet Potato Cake Recipe

1. Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can! Just make sure they’re plain canned sweet potatoes without added syrup or spices. Drain and mash them thoroughly before adding to the batter.

2. Can I make sweet potato cake ahead of time?

Absolutely. The cake actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld. Bake and frost it the day before your event, and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

3. What frosting pairs best besides cream cheese?

Brown butter frosting and cinnamon buttercream are excellent alternatives. You can also try a maple glaze or marshmallow frosting for a twist.

4. Can I turn this recipe into cupcakes?

Yes! This batter makes about 24 standard cupcakes. Reduce the baking time to 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

5. Is this cake freezer-friendly?

Definitely. You can freeze the unfrosted or frosted cake. Just wrap it well in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bring to room temperature before serving.

Conclusion

Sweet potato cake is more than just a seasonal dessert—it’s a celebration of flavor, texture, and tradition. With its rich, moist crumb and warm spice blend, it’s like a cozy sweater in cake form. Whether you’re baking it for a holiday feast, a potluck with friends, or just because it’s Wednesday and you deserve cake, this recipe will deliver.

It’s versatile enough to please any crowd—easy to customize, surprisingly forgiving, and packed with character. From the deep sweetness of the mashed sweet potatoes to the tangy cream cheese frosting, every bite tells a story. And now that you’ve mastered it step by step, you can make it yours with add-ins, different frostings, or new shapes and sizes.

So grab those sweet potatoes, preheat that oven, and bake something that’s guaranteed to warm hearts and spark smiles.