Grandma’s Famous Sweet Potato Butter Cake

Grandma's Famous Sweet Potato Butter Cake

A Southern Classic with a Buttery Twist

There’s something magical about family recipes especially when they come from Grandma’s kitchen. This Sweet Potato Butter Cake isn’t just a dessert, it’s a warm memory wrapped in every moist, spiced bite. With the rich earthiness of sweet potatoes and the indulgence of butter, this cake has earned its place at every family gathering, from Thanksgiving feasts to Sunday brunches.

The Legacy Behind the Cake

A Recipe Passed Through Generations

Long before “from scratch” was a trend, Grandma was already doing it the right way. She mashed fresh sweet potatoes, added hand-churned butter, and always said, “Bake it with love, or not at all.” This cake carries her legacy—a dessert that feels like home with every bite.

Why Sweet Potatoes?

Sweet potatoes add natural sweetness, rich color, and velvety texture to cakes. They’re packed with fiber, vitamins, and just the right touch of earthy depth, making them the secret star of this dessert.

Ingredients That Make It Irresistible

  • 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes (fresh, not canned)
  • 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • ½ tsp nutmeg
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ cup buttermilk

Optional: Glaze made with brown sugar, vanilla, and butter for a shiny finish.

How to Make Grandma’s Sweet Potato Butter Cake

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a bundt or loaf pan.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This creates the foundation for a moist cake.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Sweet Potatoes

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then fold in the mashed sweet potatoes and vanilla extract.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

Step 5: Combine and Add Buttermilk

Gradually add dry ingredients to the sweet potato mixture, alternating with buttermilk. Mix until just combined.

Step 6: Bake

Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 50–60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Glaze (Optional)

Let the cake cool for 15 minutes before removing from the pan. Drizzle with glaze for extra decadence.

Nutrition Facts (Per Slice, based on 12 servings)

NutrientAmount
Calories325 kcal
Total Fat16 g
Saturated Fat9 g
Cholesterol85 mg
Sodium220 mg
Carbohydrates42 g
Dietary Fiber2 g
Sugars24 g
Protein4 g
Vitamin A120% DV
Calcium6% DV
Iron8% DV

DV = Daily Value (Based on a 2,000-calorie diet)

Why You’ll Love This Cake

  • Moist and Flavorful: Thanks to the sweet potatoes and buttermilk.
  • Comforting and Nostalgic: Just like Grandma used to make.
  • Perfect for Any Season: Great for fall, but delightful all year round.

Final Thoughts

Grandma’s Famous Sweet Potato Butter Cake is more than a dessert—it’s a celebration of tradition, warmth, and flavor. Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion or just because, this cake is sure to bring smiles and second helpings.

Ready to try it yourself? Go ahead bring a little bit of Grandma’s love into your kitchen today.