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Introduction:
Sweet Potato Honeybun Cake is a rich, moist dessert that combines the soul-soothing flavors of mashed sweet potatoes and warm spices with the nostalgic sweetness of a classic honeybun. This tender, cinnamon-swirled cake is perfect for breakfast, brunch, potlucks, or a cozy dessert—especially during fall and winter seasons.
Origin and Cultural Significance:
Inspired by the iconic honeybun snack and the Southern tradition of sweet potato-based desserts, this cake celebrates two beloved flavors in one nostalgic treat. Sweet potatoes hold a deep-rooted place in Southern cooking, symbolizing comfort, heritage, and seasonality. Blending them into a honeybun-style cake is a modern twist that honors tradition while delighting with every gooey, cinnamon-laced bite.
Ingredients (Quantities):
- 1 cup mashed sweet potatoes (about 1 large or 2 small sweet potatoes)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
Cinnamon-Sugar Swirl (optional but recommended):
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- 1½ tsp cinnamon
Glaze (optional but classic):
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tbsp milk or cream
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Optional Additions:
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch
- 1 tsp vanilla extract or maple extract in the batter
- ½ tsp nutmeg or allspice for a deeper spice profile
- Replace oil with applesauce for a lighter version
- Top with cream cheese glaze instead of simple glaze for extra richness
Tips for Success:
- Make sure sweet potatoes are fully cooked and mashed smooth to blend seamlessly into the batter.
- Use room temperature eggs and buttermilk for best mixing results.
- Don’t overmix the batter to maintain a tender crumb.
- Grease the pan thoroughly to ensure clean release.
- Allow the cake to cool slightly before glazing so it doesn’t soak in too much.
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, mix mashed sweet potatoes, granulated sugar, brown sugar, oil, and eggs until smooth.
- Stir in buttermilk and mix until combined.
- In a separate small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon for the swirl.
- Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mix evenly over the top. Pour remaining batter over the top and gently swirl with a knife.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cool slightly. Whisk glaze ingredients together and drizzle over warm cake.
- Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.
Description:
This Sweet Potato Honeybun Cake is soft, dense, and full of rich flavor. The sweet potato adds natural moisture and depth, while the cinnamon swirl brings a familiar spiced comfort. The glaze melts into the top layer, creating a gooey, irresistible finish reminiscent of the bakery-fresh honeybun.
Nutritional Information (approx. per slice, based on 12 servings):
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Sugar: 28g
- Protein: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 120mg
(Values may vary based on optional additions and glaze use.)
Conclusion and Recommendation:
Sweet Potato Honeybun Cake is the ultimate comfort dessert with nostalgic flair and seasonal charm. Whether enjoyed with coffee for breakfast or as a cozy dessert, it’s bound to become a crowd favorite. It’s simple to make, travels well, and can be dressed up or down for any occasion.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence:
For a lighter version, try reducing the sugar by ¼ cup, swapping oil with unsweetened applesauce, and using a lighter glaze or skipping it altogether. Whole wheat pastry flour or almond flour can also be used for added fiber. Despite the indulgent name, sweet potatoes bring natural sweetness and nutrients, making this a wholesome treat when enjoyed mindfully.
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