Sweet Potato Honeybun Cake

Sweet Potato Honeybun Cake is a decadent and flavorful dessert that combines the earthy sweetness of sweet potatoes with the warm, spiced notes of a classic honeybun glaze. Perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or as a cozy treat, this cake is moist, tender, and bursting with flavor. The rich combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and sweet potatoes creates a melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s enhanced by the caramel-like glaze drizzled over the top. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying something new, this cake will surely impress anyone who takes a bite.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups cooked and mashed sweet potatoes (about 2 medium-sized sweet potatoes)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 4 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup whole milk or buttermilk

For the Honeybun Filling:

• ½ cup packed brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk (or more for desired consistency)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional: 2 tablespoons melted butter for a richer glaze

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Peel and chop sweet potatoes into chunks. Boil them in a pot of water until fork-tender (about 15-20 minutes). Drain the water and mash the sweet potatoes until smooth. Allow them to cool completely before using.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and lightly dust it with flour to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil. Mix well until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, beating thoroughly after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.

Step 5: Create the Honeybun Layer

Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared pan. In a small bowl, mix the honeybun filling ingredients (brown sugar and cinnamon). Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the batter layer. Pour the remaining batter on top, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool for 10-15 minutes.

Step 7: Prepare the Glaze

In a medium bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and melted butter (if using). The glaze should be smooth and pourable. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if needed.

Step 8: Glaze the Cake

Once the cake has cooled slightly, drizzle the glaze evenly over the top. Allow it to set for a few minutes before serving.

Variations

1. Nutty Twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the honeybun filling for extra crunch and flavor.
2. Maple Glaze: Substitute maple syrup for the milk in the glaze for a rich, autumn-inspired twist.
3. Spiced Kick: Add a pinch of ground cloves or cardamom to the cake batter for an extra layer of warmth.
4. Chocolate Addition: Fold in mini chocolate chips to the batter for a sweet surprise.
5. Cream Cheese Frosting: Swap the glaze for a tangy cream cheese frosting for a more indulgent dessert.

Cooking Notes

• Ensure the sweet potatoes are completely cool before incorporating them into the batter to avoid altering the texture.
• Do not overmix the batter after combining the wet and dry ingredients; this can make the cake dense.
• If you’re short on time, canned sweet potato puree can be used, but fresh sweet potatoes provide the best flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of flavors.
• Pair with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
• Enjoy with a cup of coffee or spiced chai tea for a cozy treat.

Tips

1. For a moist cake, do not overbake; check for doneness a few minutes before the recommended time.
2. Use a serrated knife to cut the cake for clean slices, especially after the glaze has set.
3. To store leftovers, cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain freshness.
4. This cake freezes well; slice and wrap individual portions before freezing for easy thaw-and-eat treats.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 4g
• Sodium: 220mg
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fat: 12g
• Sugars: 32g
• Fiber: 2g

FAQs

Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?

A: Yes! Sweet Potato Honeybun Cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Q: Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh?

A: Absolutely. Canned sweet potatoes work well, but ensure they are drained and mashed before using.

Q: Can I substitute the glaze with something else?

A: Yes, cream cheese frosting, caramel drizzle, or a dusting of powdered sugar can be excellent alternatives.

Q: How can I make this cake gluten-free?

A: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Ensure other ingredients, like baking powder, are also gluten-free.

Q: Can I freeze the cake?

A: Yes. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Conclusion

Sweet Potato Honeybun Cake is a delightful fusion of comfort and indulgence. With its moist texture, warm spices, and irresistible glaze, it’s a dessert that promises to be a crowd-pleaser. Perfect for any occasion, this cake brings a touch of warmth and sweetness to your table. Whether you’re enjoying it with loved ones or savoring a slice on your own, it’s a treat worth making again and again. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and dive into the delicious world of sweet potato desserts!

 

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