What happens when sweet potatoes meet cinnamon rolls in a moist cake? This homemade masterpiece is a game changer for any weeknight dinner or family gathering, thanks to its easy preparation and use of pureed sweet potatoes. Save this idea for a delicious twist on a classic dessert and try it soon with your loved ones.

sweet potato cinnamon roll cake on a white plate

Introduction

The sweet potato cinnamon roll cake is a masterpiece of creativity and flavor, combining the warmth of cinnamon with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes. This recipe is designed to be easy to follow, using everyday ingredients that are accessible to everyone. The result is a dish that is not only delicious but also visually stunning, perfect for serving on a white plate to accentuate its golden brown beauty. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is sure to impress with its perfect balance of ease, flavor, and creativity.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility
• Ease of preparation
• Impressive results with minimal effort

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients for this sweet potato cinnamon roll cake include cooked and mashed sweet potatoes, all-purpose flour, sugar, yeast, cinnamon, and butter. The sweetness of the sweet potatoes pairs perfectly with the warmth of the cinnamon, while the yeast helps the dough rise, giving the cake its light and fluffy texture. For practical substitutions, you can use brown sugar instead of white sugar for a richer flavor, and if you don’t have yeast, you can use baking powder as a substitute, though the texture might slightly differ.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Then, peel and chop 2 large sweet potatoes into cubes and boil them until they’re tender. Drain the water and mash the sweet potatoes in a bowl. Measure out 1 cup of mashed sweet potatoes for the recipe.
2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tsp of sugar, 1 tsp of salt, and 1 tsp of active dry yeast. Mix well until all the dry ingredients are fully incorporated. Then, add 1/2 cup of warm water, 1/4 cup of melted butter, and the mashed sweet potatoes. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Step 3: Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size. After the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a large rectangle.
4. Step 4: For the filling, mix 1/2 cup of granulated sugar and 2 tbsp of cinnamon in a small bowl. Spread 1/4 cup of melted butter evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges. Then, sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the butter. Roll the dough tightly from the long side and cut it into 12 equal pieces. Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, leaving some space between each roll to allow for rising. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Handy Tips

• Always use warm water when mixing the dough to help the yeast activate. Also, be gentle when rolling out the dough to prevent tearing. For an extra crispy top, brush the rolls with egg wash before baking.

Heat Control

When baking the sweet potato cinnamon roll cake, it’s crucial to maintain the oven temperature at 375°F (190°C) for even cooking. The baking time is approximately 18-20 minutes, but this can vary depending on your oven. The rolls are done when they’re golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Crunch Factor

To achieve a nice crunch on the top of the cake while keeping the inside soft, make sure to not overbake. The golden brown color is a good indicator of doneness. Additionally, brushing the tops with butter as soon as they come out of the oven can add an extra layer of flavor and crunch.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• To make the rolls more evenly sized, use a piece of string or dental floss to cut through the dough after rolling it. This helps to prevent crushing the dough and gives cleaner cuts.

Storage Tips

• The sweet potato cinnamon roll cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the baked rolls for up to 2 months. Simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave when needed.

Gift Packaging Ideas

This sweet treat makes a wonderful gift, especially during the holidays. Consider packaging the rolls in a decorative tin or a nicely wrapped basket. You can also add a personal touch with a handwritten note or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top of the package.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices like nutmeg or cardamom can add unique flavors to the cake. Creative toppings such as cream cheese frosting, chopped nuts, or dried fruits can also enhance the flavor and texture.
• Ingredient swaps like using pumpkin puree instead of sweet potatoes can create a seasonal variation of the recipe.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems can often be resolved by checking the yeast’s expiration date or ensuring the dough rises long enough. Overmixing the dough can lead to a dense cake. If the rolls are too dark, reduce the oven temperature or cover the top with foil during baking.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, the sweet potato cinnamon roll cake can be frozen for up to 2 months. It’s best to freeze the rolls before baking, then bake them frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Is it gluten-free? The current recipe includes all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. However, you can experiment with gluten-free flours, though the texture and rising might differ.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe, but be sure to use a larger baking dish to accommodate the additional rolls.

Conclusion

With its unique blend of sweet potatoes and cinnamon, this cake offers a delightful twist on traditional cinnamon rolls. It’s perfect for brunch, dessert, or as a snack. Feel free to experiment with different spices and toppings to make the recipe your own. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or if you’d like more variations on this delicious sweet potato cinnamon roll cake. Happy baking!