Sweet Potato Honeybun Cake is more than just a cake—it’s a celebration of flavor and texture that combines the classic comfort of honeybun cake with the rich, earthy sweetness of sweet potatoes. This recipe is a game-changer, transforming a traditional favorite into something extraordinary and delicious.
Introduction
Imagine biting into a cake that’s a perfect blend of buttery sweetness, warm spices, and the unexpected but delightful addition of sweet potatoes. That’s exactly what you’ll experience with Sweet Potato Honeybun Cake. This cake isn’t just a treat; it’s an experience. It marries the comforting flavors of sweet potatoes with the decadence of honeybun cake, making it a standout dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to impress at a family gathering or simply indulge in a slice of something special, this cake is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cake
To make the Sweet Potato Honeybun Cake, you’ll need:
- 1 cup cooked and mashed sweet potatoes: For the best results, use fresh sweet potatoes. Cook them until tender, mash them until smooth, and let them cool before using. You can also use canned sweet potatoes, but be sure to drain and mash them well.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: This forms the base of your cake.
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar: For that perfect balance of sweetness.
- 1 cup vegetable oil: Adds moisture and richness to the cake.
- 4 large eggs: Provides structure and stability.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor.
- 1 cup sour cream: Keeps the cake moist and tender.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works with the baking powder to provide lift.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
For the Cinnamon Swirl
You’ll need:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed: Provides a rich, caramel-like sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: For that irresistible cinnamon swirl.
For the Glaze
To finish off your cake, you’ll need:
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Creates a sweet, smooth glaze.
- 2 tablespoons milk: Thin the glaze to the right consistency.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a touch of extra flavor.
How to Prepare Sweet Potato Honeybun Cake
1. Preparing the Sweet Potatoes
Start by preparing the sweet potatoes. You can either bake them until tender or boil them. If you choose to bake, place the sweet potatoes on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 45-60 minutes, or until easily pierced with a fork. For boiling, peel and cut the sweet potatoes into chunks, then boil in water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Once cooked, let them cool before mashing until smooth. Make sure there are no lumps for a perfectly smooth batter.
2. Mixing the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. In another bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, sour cream, and mashed sweet potatoes. Combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients, mixing until just blended. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense cake.
3. Creating the Cinnamon Swirl
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and ground cinnamon for the swirl. Pour half of the cake batter into a greased bundt pan. Evenly sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter. Add the remaining batter on top and sprinkle with the remaining cinnamon mixture. Using a knife or skewer, gently swirl the cinnamon mixture into the batter to create a marbled effect.
4. Baking the Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The exact baking time may vary depending on your oven and the size of your bundt pan. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
5. Glazing the Cake
While the cake is cooling, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, mix the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.
Tips for Perfecting Your Sweet Potato Honeybun Cake
- Sweet Potato Preparation: For the smoothest cake, ensure your sweet potatoes are well-mashed with no lumps.
- Swirl Technique: To achieve a more pronounced swirl, gently swirl with a knife or skewer after adding the cinnamon mixture. Don’t overdo it—just a few swirls will create the desired effect.
- Cooling Time: Allow the cake to cool completely before applying the glaze to prevent it from melting or sliding off.
- Bundt Pan Prep: Grease your bundt pan thoroughly to ensure the cake releases easily after baking. You can also use a non-stick spray for added assurance.
Variations and Additions
Nutty Twist
For a delightful crunch, add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter. Fold in 1/2 cup of nuts before baking for added texture and flavor.
Frosting Alternative
If you’re looking for a richer flavor, consider swapping the glaze for a cream cheese frosting. Simply mix together 8 oz of cream cheese, 1/2 cup of butter, 4 cups of powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth. Spread over the cooled cake for a decadent finish.
Spiced Version
Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the cinnamon mixture for an extra layer of warmth and spice. This variation adds a subtle complexity to the flavor profile.
Common Questions About Sweet Potato Honeybun Cake
- Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
Yes, canned sweet potatoes work well. Be sure to drain them thoroughly and mash them before adding to the batter to avoid excess moisture. - How can I make this cake dairy-free?
Substitute the sour cream with a dairy-free yogurt or buttermilk alternative. Use a non-dairy milk like almond or soy milk for the glaze. - What if I don’t have a bundt pan?
You can use a 9×13-inch baking pan instead. Adjust the baking time as the cake may bake faster in a shallower pan. - Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, this cake freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature and apply the glaze before serving. - What is honey bun cake made of?
Honey bun cake is made with a rich batter of sugar, butter, eggs, and flour, often flavored with cinnamon and topped with a sweet vanilla glaze. - What is honey bun icing made of?
Honey bun icing is typically a glaze made from powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Some versions may include butter or cream cheese. - What are potato cakes made of?
Potato cakes are made with cooked, mashed potatoes, flour, eggs, and seasonings. Sweet potato cakes also include sugar, spices, and sometimes nuts or other add-ins. - Is a honey bun a snack cake?
Yes, a honey bun is a snack cake. It’s a sweet, often individually packaged cake known for its soft texture and sweet, cinnamon flavor.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
The Sweet Potato Honeybun Cake is versatile and pairs well with a variety of accompaniments:
- Coffee: The cake’s warm spices and sweetness complement a hot cup of coffee or a latte.
- Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a decadent dessert.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds a light and airy contrast to the dense cake.
Why Sweet Potatoes?
Sweet potatoes add more than just flavor to this cake—they bring nutritional benefits as well. Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, sweet potatoes contribute to a healthier dessert option. Plus, their natural sweetness means you can use less sugar, making this cake a bit more guilt-free.
The Sweet Potato Honeybun Cake Experience
Baking and enjoying the Sweet Potato Honeybun Cake is more than just eating a dessert; it’s about savoring the blend of textures and flavors that come together in each slice. The moist, sweet cake, with its swirls of cinnamon and the creamy glaze, offers a comforting and satisfying experience.
Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just to enjoy with a cup of tea, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Each bite brings a taste of home and a touch of elegance, making it a perfect choice for any gathering.
If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also love our strawberry cinnamon rolls recipe for another sweet twist, or check out our biscoff brownies for more baking inspiration.
Conclusion
The Sweet Potato Honeybun Cake is a delightful fusion of classic and contemporary flavors that will surely win hearts and taste buds. Its moist, flavorful texture combined with a tantalizing cinnamon swirl and creamy glaze creates a dessert that’s both comforting and elegant. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just indulging yourself, this cake promises to be a crowd-pleaser. Give it a try, and experience a fresh twist on a beloved classic that’s sure to become a new favorite.