Chocolate Sweet Potato Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chocolate Sweet Potato Cake is a rich, moist, and decadent dessert that combines the earthy sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the deep, indulgent flavor of chocolate. This cake is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect treat for those who want to enjoy a slightly healthier, yet incredibly satisfying dessert. With its tender crumb, subtle sweetness, and chocolatey goodness, this cake is sure to impress everyone!

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

sweet potatoes (peeled and cubed)
unsweetened cocoa powder
all-purpose flour
baking powder
baking soda
salt
unsalted butter (softened)
brown sugar
granulated sugar
eggs
vanilla extract
milk (or buttermilk for extra richness)
semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional, for added chocolate flavor)

directions

1. Roast the Sweet Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the peeled and cubed sweet potatoes on a baking sheet, drizzle with a little olive oil, and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender. Once roasted, mash the sweet potatoes and set them aside to cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and the mashed sweet potatoes.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined. If you’re using chocolate chips, fold them into the batter at this stage.
5. Bake the Cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper. Divide the batter evenly between the pans, smoothing the tops. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool the Cake: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Frost (Optional): If desired, frost the cake with chocolate ganache, cream cheese frosting, or whipped cream. Alternatively, serve it plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 8-10 people.
Preparation time: 15-20 minutes
Cooking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Frosting: Top with a rich chocolate ganache, cream cheese frosting, or even a simple dusting of powdered sugar for a lighter finish.
• Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced flavor.
• Nutty Version: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter for extra texture and flavor.
• Dairy-Free Version: Substitute the milk with a dairy-free alternative, such as almond or coconut milk, and use dairy-free butter.

storage/reheating

Store leftover Chocolate Sweet Potato Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to 5 days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, or enjoy it chilled.

FAQs

Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
While fresh roasted sweet potatoes yield the best flavor and texture, you can use canned sweet potatoes in a pinch. Just ensure they are well-drained before mashing.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the cake a day ahead and store it in an airtight container. The flavors often improve after resting overnight.

Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake for up to 2-3 months. Wrap the cooled cakes tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and store in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Can I use a different type of flour?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend if you need to make this cake gluten-free.

Can I use dark chocolate in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute dark chocolate chips or use a higher percentage of cocoa in place of semi-sweet chocolate chips if you prefer a more intense chocolate flavor.

Conclusion

Chocolate Sweet Potato Cake is a wonderful fusion of rich chocolate flavor and the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes. This cake is perfect for any occasion, from a cozy afternoon treat to a special holiday dessert. With its moist texture and depth of flavor, it’s a dessert that’s as wholesome as it is delicious!

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