This ultra-moist sweet potato cake is swirled with a cinnamon-pecan ribbon and draped in a sweet vanilla glaze—like a cozy cross between sweet potato casserole and a cinnamon bun! Perfect for holiday gatherings or Sunday suppers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Rich, spiced flavor – Cinnamon, nutmeg, and sweet potatoes shine
✅ Double-textured crumb – Moist cake + crunchy pecan filling
✅ Easy to make – Simple mixing, no fancy techniques
✅ Feeds a crowd – Perfect for potlucks and family dinners
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 cup mashed sweet potatoes (2 medium, boiled & peeled)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp nutmeg
For the Filling:
- 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp cinnamon
For the Glaze:
- 1½ cups powdered sugar
- 3 tbsp milk (adjust for thickness)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep & Preheat
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch pan.
2. Make the Batter
- Beat sweet potatoes, sugars, and oil until smooth.
- Add eggs one at a time.
- Whisk together dry ingredients (flour through nutmeg), then mix into wet batter.
3. Layer & Swirl
- Pour half the batter into the pan.
- Mix pecans, brown sugar, and cinnamon; sprinkle over batter.
- Top with remaining batter and smooth gently.
4. Bake & Glaze
- Bake 40–45 mins (toothpick test).
- Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla; drizzle over warm cake.
Pro Tips
🔥 Toast pecans first – 350°F for 5-7 mins for deeper flavor
🍯 Warm glaze slightly – Drizzles more evenly
⏳ Cool before slicing – Prevents crumbling
FAQs
1. Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
✅ Yes! Drain well and measure 1 cup mashed.
2. How to store leftovers?
- Room temp: 2 days (covered)
- Fridge: 1 week
- Freeze: 3 months (unglazed)
3. Can I make it gluten-free?
✅ Use 1:1 GF flour blend.
4. Why is my cake dense?
- Overmixed batter
- Old baking powder/soda
5. Can I add raisins?
✅ Soak ½ cup raisins in warm water first to plump.
Serving Suggestions
☕ Brunch: Pair with coffee or chai
🍦 Dessert: Serve warm with vanilla ice cream
🎁 Gifting: Wrap slices in parchment + twine
Final Thoughts
This Sweet Potato Honey Bun Cake is Southern comfort in every bite—warmly spiced, nutty, and just sweet enough. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any day you crave cozy flavors!
What’s your favorite way to use sweet potatoes? Share below! 👇💛
Happy Baking! 🎉🍠
#SweetPotatoCake #SouthernDesserts #HolidayBaking #EasyCakes
