Print

Grandma’s Famous Sweet Potato Butter Cake: How to Make an Irresistible Classic

Freshly baked sweet potato butter cake on a rustic kitchen table

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Grandma’s Famous Sweet Potato Butter Cake is a moist, rich, and comforting dessert made with mashed sweet potatoes, warm spices, and a luscious butter glaze. This classic Southern cake is a family favorite, perfect for holidays or any time you crave old-fashioned homemade goodness.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp nutmeg
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 cups mashed cooked sweet potatoes (about 2 medium)
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 cup whole milk or buttermilk

For the Butter Glaze:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a Bundt pan or 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cream butter and sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
  3. Mix in mashed sweet potatoes until fully combined and smooth.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
  5. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture alternately with milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix just until combined—do not overmix.
  6. Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
  7. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  8. For the glaze: While the cake bakes, melt butter with sugar and water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil and simmer for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
  9. While cake is still warm, poke holes all over the top with a skewer or toothpick. Slowly pour the butter glaze over the cake, allowing it to soak in completely. Let the cake cool in the pan.
  10. Invert and serve if using a Bundt pan, or slice and serve straight from the baking dish.

Notes

  • Use room temperature butter for a light, fluffy cake texture.
  • Buttermilk adds extra tenderness and tang, but whole milk also works well.
  • Make sure to poke plenty of holes for the glaze to fully soak in.
  • This cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
  • Serve with whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar for a special touch.

Nutrition