My Sweet Potato Cake recipe combines creamy sweet potato puree with rich cocoa to create a moist and delightful dessert. This cake is perfect for various occasions, from birthday parties to holiday gatherings. Its unique qualities lie in its simplicity, being made entirely in a food processor, and its ability to cater to dietary preferences as it’s both gluten-free and dairy-free.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- Dry Ingredients
- Wet Ingredients
- Topping
- How to Make Sweet Potato Cake
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Step 2: Blend the Ingredients
- Step 3: Bake the Cake
- Step 4: Cool and Frost
- How to Serve Sweet Potato Cake
- With Whipped Cream
- Topped with Nuts
- Served with Ice Cream
- Dusted with Powdered Sugar
- Paired with Fresh Berries
- With Coconut Cream Frosting
- How to Perfect Sweet Potato Cake
- Best Side Dishes for Sweet Potato Cake
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Sweet Potato Cake
- Reheating Sweet Potato Cake
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Sweet Potato Cake made of?
- Can I use other flours instead of coconut flour?
- How do I ensure my Sweet Potato Cake is moist?
- Can I make Sweet Potato Cake ahead of time?
- What are some customization options for Sweet Potato Cake?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: Just 5 minutes of prep time means you can whip this cake up in no time!
- Rich Flavor: The blend of sweet potatoes and cocoa creates a deliciously moist cake that everyone will love.
- Versatile Dessert: Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just a sweet treat after dinner.
- Healthy Twist: Made with nutritious ingredients like sweet potatoes, making it a healthier dessert option.
- Dairy and Gluten-Free: Suitable for those with dietary restrictions without sacrificing taste.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the baking process, gather your tools. Using the right equipment makes preparation easy and efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Food processor
- Cake pan (9 or 10-inch)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven
Importance of Each Tool
- Food processor: This tool simplifies mixing your ingredients into a smooth batter quickly.
- Cake pan: A good quality pan ensures even baking for a perfectly cooked cake.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Sweet Potato Cake:
Dry Ingredients
- 1/4 cup coconut flour
- 1 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 2 cups mashed sweet potato (3-4 large sweet potatoes)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 cup coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping
- 1 cup chocolate frosting
How to Make Sweet Potato Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 180C/350F. Grease your chosen 9 or 10-inch cake pan and set it aside.
Step 2: Blend the Ingredients
In a high-speed blender or food processor:
1. Add the coconut flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, salt, mashed sweet potato, eggs, maple syrup, coconut oil, and vanilla.
2. Pulse until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Transfer the cake batter into the greased pan:
1. Bake for 45-50 minutes.
2. Check for doneness by inserting a skewer; it should come out clean.
Step 4: Cool and Frost
Allow the cake to cool completely before adding your chocolate frosting on top. Enjoy this delightful Sweet Potato Cake as a tasty treat!
How to Serve Sweet Potato Cake
Sweet potato cake is a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed in many delightful ways. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging yourself, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your sweet potato cake experience.
With Whipped Cream
- Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a rich and airy texture that complements the moistness of the cake.
Topped with Nuts
- Chopped pecans or walnuts provide a crunchy contrast to the soft cake, enhancing both flavor and texture.
Served with Ice Cream
- A scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream on the side creates a delicious temperature contrast and adds creaminess to each bite.
Dusted with Powdered Sugar
- A light dusting of powdered sugar offers an elegant presentation and a touch of sweetness without overwhelming the cake.
Paired with Fresh Berries
- Fresh raspberries or strawberries not only add color but also provide a tartness that balances the sweetness of the cake.
With Coconut Cream Frosting
- For an extra tropical twist, use coconut cream frosting instead of chocolate frosting, enhancing the flavor profile of your sweet potato cake.

How to Perfect Sweet Potato Cake
Achieving the perfect sweet potato cake requires attention to detail and a few helpful tips. Follow these guidelines to ensure your cake turns out beautifully every time.
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Use fresh sweet potatoes: Freshly mashed sweet potatoes give the best flavor and moisture. Avoid canned for optimal results.
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Measure ingredients accurately: Use precise measurements for flour and cocoa powder. Too much or too little can alter the cake’s texture.
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Blend until smooth: Ensure all ingredients are thoroughly blended in your food processor for a uniform batter without lumps.
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Check doneness carefully: Insert a skewer into the center; it should come out clean. This ensures your cake is perfectly baked without being dry.
Best Side Dishes for Sweet Potato Cake
Pairing your sweet potato cake with complementary side dishes can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider.
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Cinnamon Apples: Warm, spiced apples make a comforting side that pairs well with the flavors of sweet potato.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling homemade caramel sauce over each slice adds an indulgent touch that’s hard to resist.
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Chocolate Ganache: A rich chocolate ganache can intensify the chocolate flavor while adding a luxurious finish.
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Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad provides brightness and balances the sweetness of the cake.
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Cheese Platter: A mix of soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese can create an interesting flavor contrast to the sweetness.
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Yogurt Parfait: Layering yogurt with granola and fruit can serve as a light counterpart to your rich dessert.
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Chai Spiced Tea: A warm cup of chai tea complements the flavors in sweet potato cake beautifully, making for a cozy pairing.
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Sliced Oranges: Fresh oranges add acidity and brightness, cutting through the richness of the cake for a well-rounded meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a sweet potato cake can be easy, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Using too much flour: Too much flour can make your cake dry. Measure carefully and stick to the recipe for the best results.
- Not mashing sweet potatoes properly: Lumpy sweet potatoes can lead to uneven texture. Ensure they are smooth and creamy before mixing.
- Skipping the cooling step: Frosting a warm cake can cause it to melt. Always let your cake cool completely before applying frosting.
- Neglecting to grease the pan: This can cause your cake to stick and break apart. Use coconut oil or parchment paper to prevent this issue.
- Overmixing the batter: This can result in a dense cake. Mix just until combined for a light and airy texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover sweet potato cake in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh for up to 5 days when refrigerated.
Freezing Sweet Potato Cake
- Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Sweet Potato Cake
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cake on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 20-30 seconds or until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat. Cover with a lid and heat for about 5 minutes, checking periodically.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making sweet potato cake.
What is Sweet Potato Cake made of?
Sweet potato cake typically includes coconut flour, cocoa powder, sugar, mashed sweet potatoes, eggs, and coconut oil.
Can I use other flours instead of coconut flour?
Yes, you can experiment with almond flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour, but this may alter the texture slightly.
How do I ensure my Sweet Potato Cake is moist?
Using creamy sweet potato puree helps maintain moisture in the cake. Avoid overbaking it as well.
Can I make Sweet Potato Cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer until you’re ready to serve.
What are some customization options for Sweet Potato Cake?
Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or spices like cinnamon and nutmeg for extra flavor!
Final Thoughts
This sweet potato cake recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional desserts. Its rich flavors and moist texture make it perfect for any occasion. Plus, you can easily customize it with your favorite additions! Give this delicious treat a try—you won’t be disappointed!
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Sweet Potato Cake
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Sweet Potato Cake is a decadent yet wholesome dessert that blends creamy sweet potato puree with rich cocoa to create a moist and flavorful treat. This cake is perfect for birthdays, holiday gatherings, or simply as a comforting indulgence after dinner. With its easy preparation in a food processor and its gluten-free and dairy-free qualities, this recipe caters to various dietary preferences without compromising on taste. In just 5 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delightful cake that everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup coconut flour
- 1 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups mashed sweet potato (about 3–4 large sweet potatoes)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 cup coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chocolate frosting (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a 9 or 10-inch cake pan.
- In a food processor, combine coconut flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, salt, mashed sweet potato, eggs, maple syrup, coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 45-50 minutes. Check doneness with a skewer; it should come out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting with chocolate frosting.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (85g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg