Sweet Potato Honeybun Cake is a warm, spiced cake that combines the earthy sweetness of sweet potatoes with a rich cinnamon sugar swirl. This cake is moist, flavorful, and topped with a sweet glaze that makes it perfect for any occasion—from holiday gatherings to simple family desserts. With its tender crumb and delicious flavors, this cake is sure to become a favorite.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup mashed sweet potatoes (about 1 medium sweet potato)
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
For the Cinnamon Swirl
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
For the Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger until well combined.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in the vanilla extract and mashed sweet potatoes until well combined.
Step 4: Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
Step 5: Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl
- In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon.
- Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the batter, then spread the remaining batter on top.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Prepare the Glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and pourable.
Step 8: Glaze the Cake
- Allow the cake to cool for about 10 minutes, then drizzle the glaze over the top. Let the glaze set before slicing and serving.
Cooking Tips & Notes
- Sweet Potatoes: Roast or boil the sweet potato until tender, then mash it until smooth. Make sure it’s cooled before adding to the batter.
- Buttermilk Substitute: If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make your own by adding 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to 1/2 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
- Swirling the Batter: Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the cinnamon sugar into the batter for a more pronounced swirl effect.
Variations
- Nutty Addition: Fold in 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture and flavor.
- Cream Cheese Glaze: Substitute the glaze with a cream cheese glaze by mixing 4 oz of cream cheese, 1 cup powdered sugar, and 2-3 tablespoons of milk.
- Spiced Sweet Potato Cake: Add a pinch of ground cloves or allspice for extra warmth in the cake.
- Mini Loaves: Bake the batter in mini loaf pans for individual servings—adjust the baking time accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Make This Cake Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the cake a day in advance. Store it covered at room temperature, and glaze it just before serving.
2. How Do I Store Leftover Cake?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate it for up to a week.
3. Can I Freeze Sweet Potato Honeybun Cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before glazing and serving.
4. Can I Use Canned Sweet Potatoes?
Yes, you can use canned sweet potatoes, but make sure to drain and mash them well before using.
Serving Suggestions
- Breakfast or Brunch: Serve with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a comforting start to your day.
- Dessert: Enjoy a slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Holiday Treat: This cake makes a wonderful addition to holiday gatherings, especially during the fall.
- Snack: Serve as an afternoon treat with a glass of milk or hot cider.
Sweet Potato Honeybun Cake is a delightful, spiced dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tender crumb, rich cinnamon swirl, and sweet glaze, this cake offers a comforting taste of home. Whether served for a special occasion or as an everyday treat, this cake is sure to bring warmth and joy to your table. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the wonderful flavors of sweet potatoes and warm spices!
