Sweet Potato Heart Cakes

Name: Sweet Potato Heart Cakes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 2 eggs; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon salt; Whipped cream; Chopped nuts; Maple syrup; Cinnamon sugar

Highlighted under: Treats & Confections

I absolutely love making Sweet Potato Heart Cakes, especially during the cozy months. The combination of sweet, earthy, and slightly nutty flavors bring warmth to my kitchen. These little delights are so versatile, as I often experiment with different toppings and spices. Each bite melts in your mouth, making them a perfect treat for gatherings or quiet evenings at home. Plus, they're wonderfully simple to whip up, so you can enjoy baking and indulging in no time at all!

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2026-01-18T13:49:27.374Z

When I first tried making Sweet Potato Heart Cakes, I was amazed by how nutritious and delicious they turned out. The vibrant color and unique sweetness of sweet potatoes transform ordinary cakes into something spectacular. I quickly learned that the key to their deliciousness lies in properly cooking the sweet potatoes; they should be tender enough to mash smoothly.

Over time, I have experimented with different spices, but my favorite combination remains cinnamon and nutmeg. This creates a warm aroma that fills my home while baking, adding to the comforting experience.

        Why You'll Love These Cakes
        Unique blend of sweetness and earthiness from sweet potatoes
Perfectly moist texture that makes each bite irresistible
Easy to customize with your favorite spices and toppings

      

The Importance of Sweet Potatoes

Using sweet potatoes in these heart cakes is not just about flavor; they also add natural moisture, which is crucial for achieving that perfectly tender texture. When selecting sweet potatoes, opt for those with smooth skin and a vibrant color. This ensures they are sweet and flavorful. Moreover, you can boil or steam them as both methods retain their nutrients, but avoid overcooking to prevent waterlogged potatoes that could negatively affect the cake's consistency.

Incorporating sweet potatoes into your cakes also enhances their nutritional profile. They are rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. This makes Sweet Potato Heart Cakes a more wholesome treat. By keeping the skin on while boiling or steaming, you can pack even more nutrients in your batter. However, its sweetness can vary from potato to potato, so consider adding a touch more sugar to balance the flavor if your sweet potatoes are on the less sweet side.

Customizing Your Cakes

One of the joys of baking Sweet Potato Heart Cakes is the ability to customize them to fit your taste. Feel free to adjust the spices; try adding a pinch of ginger or cardamom for an aromatic twist. If you prefer a sweeter cake, consider incorporating chopped dates or raisins into the batter. These dried fruits not only add sweetness but also provide delightful texture and small bursts of flavor with each bite.

The optional toppings are also a great way to personalize your cakes. Whipped cream can be flavored with a dash of vanilla or a sprinkle of cinnamon to enhance the familiar flavors of the cake. Additionally, sprinkling chopped nuts on top not only adds a delightful crunch but also elevates the dish visually. Experimenting with maple syrup or cinnamon sugar can bring different finishes to your Sweet Potato Heart Cakes, ensuring that each batch can provide a unique experience.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create these delightful heart cakes:

For the cakes

2 cups mashed sweet potatoes
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup vegetable oil
2 eggs
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the topping (optional)

Whipped cream
Chopped nuts
Maple syrup
Cinnamon sugar

Make sure to have these items on hand for the most delicious results!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Sweet Potato Heart Cakes:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a heart-shaped cake pan or regular muffin tin.

Prepare Sweet Potatoes

Boil or steam sweet potatoes until tender, then mash them thoroughly and set aside to cool.

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine cooked sweet potatoes, flour, sugar, oil, eggs, baking powder, baking soda, vanilla, spices, and salt. Mix well until the batter is smooth.

Pour into Pan

Pour the batter into your prepared pan, filling it about two-thirds full.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Let the cakes cool for a few minutes before removing them from the pan. Serve with your choice of toppings, like whipped cream or syrup.

Enjoy your delicious Sweet Potato Heart Cakes!

Pro Tips

Feel free to mix in chocolate chips or nuts for an added texture. These cakes also freeze well, so you can make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them later.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Sweet Potato Heart Cakes can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze the cakes after they've cooled completely. Wrap each cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They will keep well for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature for a few hours or in the refrigerator overnight.

To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. This will refresh their texture, making them almost as good as fresh. If you choose to microwave them, do so in short intervals to avoid making them soggy. Make sure to cover them with a microwave-safe lid or another plate to retain moisture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One of the most common issues when baking these heart cakes is the risk of them coming out dry. This can occur if the sweet potatoes are overcooked or if there’s too much flour in the batter. To gauge proper texture, the batter should be smooth but slightly thick. Ensure you measure your ingredients accurately, using the spoon-and-level method for flour to prevent packing it down in the measuring cup.

Alternatively, if your cakes turn out too moist or sink in the middle, it might be a sign that additional baking time is needed, or that the sweet potatoes were not thoroughly drained after cooking. Always check for doneness about two minutes before the recommended time using a toothpick. If it comes out with wet batter, they need a bit more time. Watch for golden edges, which indicate they’re ready.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned sweet potatoes?

Yes, you can use canned sweet potatoes, but make sure to drain them well and mash before use.

→ How can I make these gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary restrictions.

→ Can I make these in advance?

Absolutely! You can bake them a day before and store them in the fridge, just warm them up before serving.

→ What other toppings would you recommend?

In addition to whipped cream, consider using yogurt, fresh fruit, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.