Moist & Magical Southern Sweet Potato Cake Recipe (Pound Cake Style)

If you’re craving a dessert that wraps you in warmth, nostalgia, and Southern charm, this Southern Sweet Potato Pound Cake is the answer. With a rich, buttery crumb, bold spice notes, and natural sweetness from mashed sweet potatoes, this cake is everything we love about old-fashioned Southern baking.

Whether you’re searching for a new holiday showstopper, something unique for Sunday dinner, or a comfort dessert for chilly nights, this sweet potato cake recipe belongs in your kitchen. It’s moist, dense, and glazed to perfection—everything a classic Bundt cake recipe should be.

Want even more old-school flavor? Pair it with a slice of Cream Cheese Pumpkin Bread or a mug of Pumpkin Spice Cold Brew.

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Why This Sweet Potato Cake Recipe is a Holiday Staple

Southern desserts have a way of making people feel at home—and this sweet potato pound cake is no exception. It’s a staple at Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter, thanks to:

• Its rich, buttery flavor enhanced by warm spices
• Naturally moist texture from mashed sweet potatoes
• Easy-to-make batter that bakes beautifully in a Bundt pan
• A classic glaze that makes it table-ready for special occasions

It’s not just a dessert—it’s a tradition. Much like Pumpkin Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls or Pumpkin Dump Cake, it becomes a talking point at the dessert table.

What is a Sweet Potato Pound Cake?

A sweet potato pound cake is a variation of the traditional pound cake, made with mashed sweet potatoes for extra moisture, flavor, and richness. The addition of cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar gives it a deep, autumnal character. While some versions lean toward dessert, others are subtle enough to serve with coffee.

Unlike lighter cakes, this Southern sweet potato cake has a dense, moist crumb—ideal for baking in a Bundt pan or loaf form. If you love classic Southern cakes, this one should be next on your list right after Mini Pumpkin Bread with Cinnamon Swirl.

Ingredients You’ll Need for This Southern Sweet Potato Cake

Here’s what you’ll need to make a perfect sweet potato dessert:

• 2½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup mashed sweet potatoes (homemade or canned)
• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ cup milk

Glaze Ingredients:

• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 2–3 tablespoons milk or cream
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional add-ins include chopped pecans, crushed pineapple, or a bit of bourbon extract for a deeper flavor (but keep it family-friendly and alcohol-free if preferred).

Want a shortcut? Learn more about Canning Sweet Potatoes to always have them on hand for baking.

Kitchen Tools & Bundt Cake Equipment Checklist

To bake this Southern delight, gather:

• 12-cup Bundt cake pan
• Stand or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Rubber spatula
• Sifter or whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wire cooling rack
• Cake tester or toothpick

Need more Bundt-style inspo? Try our Pumpkin Truffles or Apple Fritter Donuts, both perfect for holiday gifting.

How to Make the Best Sweet Potato Pound Cake (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour your Bundt pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a separate bowl, use a mixer to cream the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy—about 3–5 minutes.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

Beat in eggs, one at a time, followed by vanilla extract. Add the mashed sweet potatoes and mix until smooth.

Step 5: Combine

Add the dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with the sour cream and milk. Do not overmix—stop when just combined.

Step 6: Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared Bundt pan. Smooth the top and bake for 60–75 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Glaze

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack. Once completely cool, drizzle with glaze made from powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla.

This cake pairs beautifully with a side of Lavender Lemonade or your favorite herbal tea.

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Tips for Moist and Perfect Southern Cake Every Time

• Don’t overmix the batter once flour is added
• Room temperature ingredients are a must
• Use fresh sweet potatoes if possible for more depth
• Grease the pan well to avoid sticking
• Let the cake cool completely before glazing

Looking for a gluten-free treat with the same warmth? Check out our Gluten-Free Pumpkin Donuts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Sweet Potato Cake

• Skipping the pan prep (Bundt pans stick easily)
• Overbaking, which dries out the cake
• Using watery sweet potatoes—drain well if using canned
• Not allowing the cake to fully cool before glazing

For more baking help, read our tips on soft baked treats like Cheesecake-Stuffed Cookies.

How to Store, Freeze & Reheat Sweet Potato Dessert

To store: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container for up to 5 days at room temp.

To freeze: Slice and wrap individually, then store in freezer bags for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temp and warm in the microwave if desired.

To reheat: Lightly warm slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds or enjoy cold!

Want a breakfast-friendly option? Try our Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal for a cozy morning bite.

Can I Use Canned Sweet Potatoes or Fresh?

Yes, both work well—but there are pros and cons:

• Fresh sweet potatoes give more flavor and color but require boiling, peeling, and mashing
• Canned sweet potatoes are convenient but may be watery—drain them well before use

Want to can your own? Try pairing this recipe with homemade Canned Apple Pie Filling or roasted Garlic Parmesan Potatoes for the holidays.

Glaze Ideas and Toppings for Sweet Potato Pound Cake

Classic glaze is made with powdered sugar and milk, but here are more ideas:

• Maple glaze with a dash of cinnamon
• Cream cheese glaze for tangy contrast
• Brown butter glaze with pecans
• Drizzle of caramel sauce and toasted coconut

Want something with crunch? Serve with Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs on the side for a sweet-and-savory mix.

Serving Suggestions: Holiday and Everyday Pairings

• Thanksgiving dessert table with Stuffed Acorn Squash
• Sunday supper dessert with Creamy Mushroom Soup
• Afternoon treat with Fruit Dip and sliced apples
• Gift-wrapped slices for friends, neighbors, or bake sales

This recipe holds its own among traditional Southern desserts like chess pie, hummingbird cake, and peach cobbler.

Sweet Potato Cake Variations (Add Nuts, Spices, or Swaps)

• Swap vanilla for maple extract
• Add chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch
• Mix in shredded coconut
• Dust with powdered sugar instead of glaze
• Add a pinch of ginger or cloves for more spice

For something less sweet, check out our savory Vegetable Casserole as a side.

More Southern Desserts and Bundt Cakes Recipes to Try

If you love this, explore more Bundt cake recipes and Southern favorites:

• Pumpkin Bread with Chocolate Chips
• Cream Cheese Swirled Cinnamon Pumpkin Butter Bread
• Mini Pumpkin Pie Cups
• Apple Crisp with Oatmeal
• Peach Cobbler Cheesecake Bars

Browse our Dessert Collection for more holiday-ready sweets.

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FAQs About Sweet Potato Cake

Can I use yams instead of sweet potatoes?
Technically yes, but true sweet potatoes yield better flavor and texture.

Can I bake this in loaf pans or round cake pans?
Yes—adjust baking time to about 45–55 minutes depending on pan size.

Does this need to be refrigerated?
Not required unless using cream cheese glaze. Otherwise, store covered at room temperature.

Is this a dessert or breakfast cake?
Both! It’s sweet enough for dessert but hearty enough to enjoy with morning coffee.

Final Thoughts: Southern Comfort in a Bundt Cake

This Southern Sweet Potato Pound Cake is everything a classic Southern dessert should be—rich, comforting, flavorful, and a little indulgent. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or just want to bring back the taste of home, this is the cake to bake.

If you loved this sweet potato cake recipe, please share it with friends and family—and don’t forget to subscribe to the blog for more Southern cake favorites, sweet potato desserts, and timeless treats from the heart of the kitchen.

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