Sweet Potato Honey Bun Cake: A Decadent and Comforting Dessert

Sweet Potato Honey Bun Cake: A Decadent and Comforting Dessert

by

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s rich, comforting, and full of warm, spiced flavors, this Sweet Potato Honey Bun Cake is for you! Combining the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the gooey, cinnamon-sugar goodness of a honey bun, this cake is a show-stopping treat perfect for holidays, potlucks, or cozy nights at home. Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Comfort Food at Its Best: A perfect blend of sweet potatoes, cinnamon, and brown sugar.
  • Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe foolproof.
  • Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or dessert lovers.
  • Versatile: Serve it warm with ice cream or enjoy it as-is.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

  • 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 2 medium sweet potatoes)
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup milk (whole or 2%)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

For the Swirl:

  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

For the Glaze:

  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Wash, peel, and cut the sweet potatoes into chunks. Boil them in a pot of water for 15-20 minutes, or until tender. Drain and mash until smooth. Measure out 2 cups of mashed sweet potatoes and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

  1. In a large bowl, cream together 1/2 cup softened butter, 1 cup granulated sugar, and 1/2 cup brown sugar until light and fluffy.
  2. Add the 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes, 2 eggs, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with 1/2 cup milk. Mix until just combined.

Step 3: Make the Swirl

  1. In a small bowl, mix 1/4 cup melted butter, 1/2 cup brown sugar, and 1 tablespoon cinnamon until smooth.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

  1. Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
  2. Drizzle half of the cinnamon swirl mixture over the batter.
  3. Add the remaining cake batter and spread it evenly.
  4. Drizzle the remaining cinnamon swirl mixture on top. Use a knife or toothpick to swirl the mixture into the batter.

Step 5: Bake

  1. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Make the Glaze

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons milk, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth.
  2. Drizzle the glaze over the warm cake.

Step 7: Serve

  1. Let the cake cool slightly before slicing.
  2. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, if desired.

Tips for the Best Sweet Potato Honey Bun Cake

  1. Use Fresh Sweet Potatoes: Freshly mashed sweet potatoes have the best flavor and texture.
  2. Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can make the cake dense. Mix until just combined.
  3. Customize the Spices: Add a pinch of cloves or allspice for extra warmth.
  4. Make It Ahead: This cake can be made a day in advance and reheated before serving.
  5. Double the Glaze: If you love extra sweetness, make a double batch of the glaze.

Serving Suggestions

  • With Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream.
  • With Whipped Cream: Top with freshly whipped cream for a light, fluffy contrast.
  • With Coffee or Tea: Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy dessert experience.

Why This Recipe Works

This cake combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the warm, spiced flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg. The cinnamon swirl adds a gooey, honey-bun-like texture, while the glaze provides a sweet finishing touch. It’s a dessert that’s both comforting and indulgent.

More Relevant Recipes to Try

If you loved this Sweet Potato Honey Bun Cake, here are some other delicious recipes you might enjoy:

Conclusion

This Sweet Potato Honey Bun Cake is a must-try for anyone who loves sweet, spiced desserts. With its tender crumb, gooey cinnamon swirl, and sweet glaze, it’s a dessert that’s sure to impress. So grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a slice of pure comfort!

Leave a Comment