Allergen Alert: Contains Tree NutsAllergen Alert: Contains Milk
For the Batter
2 medium sweet potatos
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1 / 2 cups granulated sugar
1 / 2 cups vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1 / 2 teaspoons ground nutmeg
1 / 2 teaspoons salt
1 / 2 cups, chopped pecans
For the Quick Glaze
1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons heavy cream
1 / 2 teaspoons maple extract
Steps
Step 1
Peel and cube your sweet potatoes. Boil them until fork-tender (about 15–20 minutes). Drain and mash them until completely smooth. Let them cool slightly before using.
Step 2
In a large bowl, whisk together the mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla until well combined.
Step 3
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
Step 4
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined—do not overmix, or the bread will be tough. Fold in the nuts if using.
Step 5
Pour the batter into a greased 9x5-inch loaf pan (for bread) or an 8-inch square pan (for cake). Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 55–65 minutes. Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
Step 6
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then move to a wire rack. Whisk the glaze ingredients together and drizzle over the top while the cake is still slightly warm.
Notes
For a deeper, more "honey-like" flavor, roast the sweet potatoes in their skins at 400°F until they ooze syrup, then peel and mash them.
The "Day Two" Rule: This cake is significantly better the next day. Wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap overnight to let the moisture redistribute.
This dish is special because...
This dish is a centerpiece of Southern "soul food" tradition. It’s special because it transforms a humble root vegetable into a sophisticated dessert. Unlike many cakes that rely purely on sugar for flavor, this recipe uses the sweet potato's natural sugars and starches to create a moist texture that actually improves after a day of sitting, as the spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger) meld together.
