Sweet Potato Cinnamon Roll Cake with Creamy Frosting

When you think of breakfast or dessert, sweet potato cinnamon roll cake might not be the first thing to pop into your head. But let me tell ya, it’s a game changer! This sweet, moist cake is a heavenly blend of sweet potatoes, cinnamon, and all the gooey goodness of cinnamon rolls. It’s a treat that can be enjoyed any time of day. Plus, it’s relatively easy to make, making it a fantastic addition to your recipe arsenal. Prepare to delve in, ’cause we’re gonna explore every little detail on how to whip up this scrumptious cake.

The Origins of Sweet Potato Cake

Sweet potatoes have been a staple ingredient in many cultures, particularly in the Southeastern United States. They’ve been cherished for their natural sweetness and versatility. The combination of sweet potatoes with cinnamon-flavored recipes can be traced back to the heart of Southern cooking.

The idea of merging a cake with the festive flavors of cinnamon rolls is something that has popped up recently, thanks to creative bakers experimenting in their kitchens. The result? A cake that satisfies sweet cravings while offering the warmth and comfort of cinnamon rolls.

Why Choose Sweet Potatoes?

Sweet potatoes are not just delicious; they’re packed with nutrition! Here’s a breakdown of their benefits:

• High in Vitamins: Sweet potatoes are rich in Vitamin A, which supports vision.
• Fiber-Rich: They offer a good source of dietary fiber, helping digestive health.
• Antioxidants: These guys are full of antioxidants, promoting overall health.
• Low in Calories: They’re relatively low in calories, making them a smart choice for people watching their weight.

So, when you use sweet potatoes in your cake, you’re not just adding flavor; you’re also boosting its nutritional profile!

Ingredients for Sweet Potato Cinnamon Roll Cake

Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty! Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Cake:

• 1 cup of mashed sweet potatoes
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Cinnamon Filling:

• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2–3 cups powdered sugar
• 1–2 tablespoons milk (as needed for consistency)

Preparation Steps: How to Make It

Creating this sweet potato cinnamon roll cake is an enjoyable process. Let’s take it step-by-step!

Step 1: Prepping the Sweet Potatoes

The first thing ya wanna do is cook your sweet potatoes. You can steam them or bake them until they’re tender. Once they’re cool enough to handle, mash ‘em up real good. You need about one cup of mashed sweet potatoes for this recipe, so make sure you measure it out.

Step 2: Making the Cake Batter

In a large bowl, mix together the mashed sweet potatoes, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until everything is well blended and smooth.

In a separate bowl, whisk together your dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing; we want it light and fluffy!

Step 3: Preparing the Cinnamon Filling

In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Pour in the melted butter, stirring until it resembles a slurry. This mixture is what’ll give your cake those delicious swirls of cinnamon goodness.

Step 4: Assembling the Cake

Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan. Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared pan. Then, drizzle half of the cinnamon filling over the top. Use a knife to swirl it gently into the batter.

Pour the remaining cake batter on top and then drizzle the rest of that cinnamon filling. Again, swirl it lightly with a knife. Don’t go too deep; you want swirls, not a mixed-up mess!

Step 5: Baking

Bake the cake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30–35 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Make the Frosting

While the cake’s baking, whip up that delightful cream cheese frosting. In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add in the vanilla extract and mix again. Gradually introduce powdered sugar, adding milk as necessary to achieve your desired consistency.

Step 7: Frosting the Cake

Once the cake has cooled for about 10 minutes, spread the cream cheese frosting over the top. Allow it to cool completely before cutting into squares. Serve, and enjoy every bite as the flavors dance on your palate!

Tips for the Best Sweet Potato Cinnamon Roll Cake

Here are some helpful tips that can take your cake to the next level:

• Choose the Right Sweet Potatoes: Look for firm, smooth-skinned ones. They should feel heavy for their size.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on that cake. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture.
• Mix-in Variations: Feel free to add nuts, raisins, or even chocolate chips for extra flavor and texture.
• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet cake, reduce the sugars slightly.

Nutritional Breakdown

Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional content for one slice (assuming 12 slices total):

Storing Leftovers

If you find you’ve got leftovers (which is rare because it’s so good!), here’s how to store them:

• Refrigeration: Keep the cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days.
• Freezing: You can freeze slices for up to three months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil for the best protection.

Serving Suggestions

This cake is versatile. Here are a few serving suggestions:

• Top with nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts add a lovely crunch.
• Pair with ice cream: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat.
• Fresh fruits: Slice up some fresh apples or pears as a side.

Final Thoughts

The sweet potato cinnamon roll cake is a delightful twist on two comfort foods. Its rich flavors and moist texture make it an instant favorite for breakfast, dessert, or even an afternoon snack. Plus, with the nutritional benefits of sweet potatoes, it makes indulging a bit less guilty!

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice, this cake is simple enough to tackle. Its warmth and deliciousness create a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for gatherings with friends and family.

So, roll up those sleeves, mash those sweet potatoes, and get ready to enjoy a slice (or two) of pure happiness. Your taste buds will thank you!