Introduction
Southern Sweet Potato Butter Cake is a delightful and rich dessert that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the moisture of butter cake. This traditional recipe is perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or any occasion when you crave a comforting slice of cake. The addition of sweet potatoes not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful orange hue and a tender texture, making it a unique twist on the classic butter cake.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Sweet potatoes – 1 cup, cooked and mashed
Unsalted butter – 1 cup, softened
Granulated sugar – 2 cups
Brown sugar – 1/2 cup
Vanilla extract – 2 teaspoons
Baking powder – 1 tablespoon
All-purpose flour – 2 cups
Eggs – 4 large
Milk – 1/2 cup
Salt – 1/2 teaspoon
Ground cinnamon – 1 teaspoon
Prep Time
The preparation time for Southern Sweet Potato Butter Cake is approximately 20 minutes. This includes peeling and cooking the sweet potatoes until soft, as well as mixing the other ingredients to create a smooth batter.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cook time for this cake is around 50 to 60 minutes, depending on your oven. In total, you can expect the entire process, from prep to serving, to take about 1 hour and 20 minutes. This recipe yields a generous 12 slices, making it perfect for sharing with friends and family. Enjoy the rich flavors and delightful texture of this Southern classic!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Ensure that your oven is properly calibrated for accurate baking.
Prepare the Baking Pan
Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan. This will help prevent the cake from sticking to the pan after baking.
Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of softened butter and 2 cups of granulated sugar. Cream them together using an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Add Eggs and Sweet Potato
Add 4 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, add 1 cup of cooked and mashed sweet potatoes, continuing to mix until fully incorporated.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
Add Dry Ingredients to Wet Mixture
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the texture of the cake.
Incorporate Milk
Pour in 1 cup of buttermilk, mixing gently until everything is well blended and the batter is smooth.
Pour Batter into Pan
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Bake the Cake
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool the Cake
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely.
Frost the Cake (Optional)
If desired, frost the cooled cake with cream cheese frosting or any preferred frosting for added flavor.
Notes
Using Sweet Potatoes
For best results, use fresh sweet potatoes that are cooked and mashed. Canned sweet potato puree can also be used but ensure it’s unsweetened.
Storing the Cake
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Freezing the Cake
This cake can be frozen. Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cake as a dessert or with a cup of coffee or tea. It pairs well with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Cook techniques
Using Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes can be prepared in various forms. For this cake, they should be cooked and mashed until smooth to incorporate the natural sweetness and moisture they provide.
Creaming Butter and Sugar
The key to a fluffy cake is creaming cold butter and sugar together until light and airy, which helps to incorporate air and achieve a better rise when baking.
Incorporating Eggs
Add eggs one at a time to the butter and sugar mixture. This helps with even distribution and ensures that the mixture remains fluffy.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
Sift together dry ingredients like flour, baking powder, and spices to ensure even mixing and to remove any lumps before combining with wet ingredients.
Layering Flavors
To enhance the taste, consider adding vanilla extract and cinnamon to the batter, complementing the sweetness of the sweet potatoes.
Baking Temperature
Baking at the correct temperature is crucial. Ensure your oven is preheated properly to create a uniform texture in the cake.
Testing for Doneness
Use a toothpick or cake tester inserted in the center of the cake to check for doneness; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs attached.
FAQ
Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, canned sweet potatoes can be used, but make sure to drain and mash them well to avoid excess moisture.
What type of flour is best for this cake?
All-purpose flour is typically the best choice for this type of cake to achieve the desired texture.
How can I make this cake gluten-free?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring that it contains a binding agent like xanthan gum.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?
Yes, adding chopped pecans or walnuts can provide a nice crunch and additional flavor.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.
Conclusion
The Southern Sweet Potato Butter Cake is a delightful treat that combines rich flavors and a moist texture, making it a delicious addition to any dessert table. Its unique sweetness from the sweet potatoes paired with buttery notes creates a comforting experience. Perfect for family gatherings or special occasions, this cake is sure to impress and satisfy anyone with a sweet tooth.
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