Imagine a dessert that’s moist, flavorful, and packed with the warm spices of fall. The Glazed Sweet Potato Honeybun Cake combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with a swirl of cinnamon and a luscious glaze. It’s the perfect dessert for family gatherings, potlucks, or simply indulging in a comforting treat at home. Let’s dive into how you can make this delightful cake step by step.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cake isn’t just another dessert; it’s an experience. Here’s why you’ll want to make it again and again:
- Rich and Moist: Thanks to the sweet potatoes and buttermilk.
- Packed with Flavor: A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger creates the ultimate cozy dessert.
- Easy to Make: Straightforward steps and common ingredients.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: From holidays to weeknight treats.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a detailed breakdown of everything you’ll need for the cake, cinnamon swirl, and glaze:
For the Cake
Ingredient | Amount |
---|---|
Mashed sweet potatoes | 1 cup (about 1 medium sweet potato) |
Granulated sugar | 1 cup |
Brown sugar (packed) | 1/2 cup |
Vegetable oil | 1/2 cup |
Eggs | 2 large |
Buttermilk | 1 cup |
Vanilla extract | 2 tsp |
All-purpose flour | 2 1/2 cups |
Baking powder | 1 tbsp |
Baking soda | 1/2 tsp |
Salt | 1/2 tsp |
Ground cinnamon | 1 tsp |
Ground nutmeg | 1/2 tsp |
Ground ginger | 1/2 tsp |
For the Cinnamon Swirl
Ingredient | Amount |
---|---|
Granulated sugar | 1/2 cup |
Ground cinnamon | 1 tbsp |
For the Glaze
Ingredient | Amount |
---|---|
Powdered sugar | 1 cup |
Milk | 2 tbsp |
Vanilla extract | 1/2 tsp |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Make the Wet Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla extract.
- Mix until the ingredients are smooth and well-blended.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
Step 4: Create the Cinnamon Swirl
- In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon for the cinnamon swirl.
Step 5: Layer the Batter
- Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
- Sprinkle half of the cinnamon swirl mixture over the batter.
- Add the remaining batter on top and use a knife to gently swirl the layers together.
- Sprinkle the rest of the cinnamon sugar mixture on top for added flavor and texture.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
Step 7: Prepare the Glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake for a glossy finish.
Tips for Success
Use Fresh Sweet Potatoes
- Freshly mashed sweet potatoes provide the best flavor and moisture. Avoid using canned sweet potatoes if possible.
Don’t Overmix
- Overmixing the batter can make the cake dense. Mix until just combined.
Check for Doneness
- Oven times may vary, so start checking the cake at the 35-minute mark.
Cool Before Glazing
- Ensure the cake is completely cool before adding the glaze to prevent it from melting.
Nutritional Information
Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 12 servings):
Nutrient | Amount (Approx.) |
---|---|
Calories | 320 |
Total Fat | 12g |
Carbohydrates | 48g |
Protein | 4g |
Sugar | 30g |
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on portion size and specific ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! The cake can be made a day in advance. Store it covered at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
2. Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
You can, but fresh sweet potatoes provide a better texture and flavor.
3. What can I substitute for buttermilk?
Mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice as a buttermilk substitute.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Cover the cake tightly and store at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
5. Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
6. Can I add nuts or raisins?
Absolutely! Fold in 1/2 cup of chopped pecans, walnuts, or raisins for added texture.
Creative Variations
Caramel Sweet Potato Cake
- Drizzle caramel sauce over the glaze for a richer flavor.
Spiced Sweet Potato Cake
- Add a pinch of cloves and cardamom for a spicier kick.
Chocolate Chip Sweet Potato Cake
- Fold in 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips for a sweet twist.
Pecan Topping
- Sprinkle chopped pecans over the cinnamon sugar topping before baking.
Serving Suggestions
This Glazed Sweet Potato Honeybun Cake pairs perfectly with:
- A hot cup of coffee or tea.
- A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Fresh fruit, like sliced pears or apples, for a refreshing side.
Final Thoughts
Glazed Sweet Potato Honeybun Cake is a dessert that combines the best of both worlds: the wholesome goodness of sweet potatoes and the indulgent sweetness of a cinnamon swirl cake. It’s an easy-to-make recipe that’s sure to impress everyone who tries it.
Ready to bake this delicious treat? Gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and enjoy a slice of warm, spiced cake. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family—they’ll thank you for it!
PrintGlazed Sweet Potato Honeybun Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings
Description
Moist, flavorful, and packed with warm spices, this Glazed Sweet Potato Honeybun Cake combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with a cinnamon swirl and a luscious glaze. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a dessert that’s as comforting as it is delicious.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 cup mashed sweet potatoes (about 1 medium sweet potato)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Make the Wet Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well blended.
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Create the Cinnamon Swirl:
- In a small bowl, mix the sugar and cinnamon for the swirl.
- Layer the Batter:
- Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle half of the cinnamon swirl mixture over the batter.
- Add the remaining batter and use a knife to gently swirl the layers together.
- Sprinkle the remaining cinnamon sugar mixture on top.
- Bake the Cake:
- Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- Prepare the Glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake.
Notes
- Freshly mashed sweet potatoes provide the best flavor and moisture. Avoid canned sweet potatoes if possible.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute buttermilk with a mixture of 1 cup almond milk and 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice.
- Cool the cake completely before glazing to ensure the glaze sets properly.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American