Imagine the warm, sweet aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg filling your kitchen as a golden, moist cake bakes in the oven. It’s comforting, nostalgic, and irresistible. If you’ve ever craved a dessert that’s both indulgent and heartwarming, the Moist Sweet Potato Cinnamon Cake is your answer. This cake takes the earthy sweetness of sweet potatoes and pairs it with rich cinnamon sugar swirls and a pecan glaze that’s pure perfection.

Perfect for holiday gatherings, casual get-togethers, or a cozy night in, this cake is as delightful to make as it is to eat. Let’s dive into this recipe that’s destined to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love Moist Sweet Potato Cinnamon Cake

This cake isn’t just about satisfying your sweet tooth—it’s an experience. The combination of sweet potatoes, cinnamon sugar, and pecan glaze creates layers of flavor and texture. It’s moist, tender, and perfectly spiced, with just the right balance of sweetness.

Perfect for Any Occasion

• Holiday Desserts: A showstopper on Thanksgiving or Christmas dessert tables.
• Comfort Food: Ideal for a chilly evening with a cup of tea or coffee.
• Potluck Hero: Portable and universally loved, this cake is a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients for Moist Sweet Potato Cinnamon Cake

Here’s a complete breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need for the cake, topping, and glaze:

For the Cake:

Ingredient	Amount
All-Purpose Flour	3 cups
Nutmeg	1/2 tsp
Salt	1/4 tsp
Sugar	1 cup
Baking Powder	4 tsp
Cooked Sweet Potatoes	2 cups
Milk	1 1/2 cups
Eggs (beaten)	2
Vanilla Extract	2 tsp
Butter (melted)	1/2 cup

For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping:

Ingredient	Amount
Butter (softened)	1 stick
Brown Sugar	1/2 cup
Flour	1 tbsp
Cinnamon	1 1/2 tsp

For the Pecan Glaze:

Ingredient	Amount
Powdered Sugar	1 cup
Milk	2 1/2 tbsp
Vanilla Extract	1/2 tsp
Chopped Pecans	1/2 cup

Step-by-Step Instructions for Moist Sweet Potato Cinnamon Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease the Pan: Spray a 13×9-inch baking pan with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

1. Beat the Sweet Potatoes: In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, beat the sweet potatoes and milk until smooth and creamy.
2. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Stir in the beaten eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, and nutmeg.

Step 4: Mix the Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Combine the Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the sweet potato mixture. Mix until just combined—be careful not to overmix.
2. Incorporate Butter: Drizzle in the melted butter and gently fold it into the batter until well incorporated.

Step 5: Pour and Prepare for Topping

1. Transfer the Batter: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the surface with a spatula.

Step 6: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Topping

1. Mix the Topping: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon until well blended.
2. Add to Cake: Drop small dollops of the topping evenly over the batter.

Step 7: Create the Swirl

1. Swirl the Topping: Use a knife to gently swirl the cinnamon sugar topping through the batter, creating a marbled effect similar to a cinnamon roll.

Step 8: Bake the Cake

1. Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 9: Cool the Cake

1. Set and Cool: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 20 minutes.

Step 10: Prepare the Pecan Glaze

1. Mix the Glaze: In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and chopped pecans until smooth.

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Step 11: Glaze the Cake

1. Drizzle the Glaze: Pour the pecan glaze over the slightly warm cake, letting it seep into the surface.

Step 12: Serve and Enjoy

1. Slice and Serve: Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature for the ultimate cozy dessert experience.

Tips for the Best Sweet Potato Cinnamon Cake

• Use Fresh Sweet Potatoes: For the best flavor, cook and mash fresh sweet potatoes instead of using canned ones.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can make the cake dense. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Swirl Gently: When swirling the cinnamon sugar topping, avoid overmixing to maintain the marbled effect.
• Cool Before Glazing: Let the cake cool slightly to prevent the glaze from melting completely into the cake.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (makes 12 servings):

Nutrient	Per Serving
Calories	310 kcal
Protein	4 g
Carbohydrates	43 g
Fat	13 g
Saturated Fat	7 g
Sugar	24 g
Sodium	170 mg

(Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on ingredients used.)

FAQs About Moist Sweet Potato Cinnamon Cake

1. Can I use canned sweet potatoes?

Yes, but drain them thoroughly and mash them until smooth before using.

2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! Bake the cake a day ahead and add the glaze just before serving for the freshest presentation.

3. Can I freeze this cake?

Yes! Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

4. What other toppings can I use?

Try adding chopped walnuts or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra flavor.

5. Can I make this gluten-free?

Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure other ingredients are also gluten-free.

6. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Conclusion: A Cake to Savor and Share

The Moist Sweet Potato Cinnamon Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a slice of comfort and warmth. From the tender crumb to the rich cinnamon swirls and the decadent pecan glaze, every bite feels like a cozy hug. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply indulging your sweet tooth, this cake is sure to delight.

Ready to bake your own Moist Sweet Potato Cinnamon Cake? Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the sweet, spicy, and nutty flavors of this masterpiece. Share it with friends and family or savor it all to yourself—you deserve it! Happy baking!

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