Ingredients

• 2 (15-ounce) cans sweet potatoes in light syrup, drained
• 1/2 cup salted butter, melted
• 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1 package (2 layer) spice cake mix or yellow cake mix
• 1/2 cup salted butter, cold, cut into small pieces
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
• Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, to serve (if desired)

Making it Step by Step

1. Prepare the Sweet Potato Mixture:
   • In a large mixing bowl, mash the drained sweet potatoes until smooth.
   • Add 1/2 cup melted butter, 1 can sweetened condensed milk, 1 tablespoon vanilla extract, and 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice to the bowl.
   • Mix well until all ingredients are fully combined and the mixture is smooth.
2. Prepare the Cake Base:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish or similar-sized baking pan.
   • Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
3. Prepare the Crumble Topping:
   • In a separate bowl, combine 1 package of spice cake mix or yellow cake mix with 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces.
   • Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the cake mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
   • Sprinkle the crumble mixture evenly over the sweet potato layer.
4. Add Pecans (Optional):
   • If using, sprinkle 1/2 cup chopped pecans over the top of the crumble mixture.
5. Bake:
   • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool and Serve:
   • Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before serving.
   • Cut into squares and serve warm or at room temperature.
   • Top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream if desired.

Cooking Tips

• Sweet Potato Consistency: Ensure that the sweet potatoes are well-drained to avoid excess moisture that can affect the cake’s texture.
• Butter Temperature: Melt the butter for the sweet potato mixture thoroughly but allow it to cool slightly before mixing in to avoid curdling the condensed milk.
• Cake Mix Choice: Spice cake mix adds extra flavor, but yellow cake mix can also be used for a simpler taste.
• Crumble Consistency: The crumble topping should be coarse. Avoid overworking the butter into the cake mix to keep the topping light and crumbly.

Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cake for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, based on 12 servings)

• Calories: Approximately 330 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 16g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fiber: 2g

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh sweet potatoes instead of canned?
   • Yes, you can use cooked and mashed fresh sweet potatoes. Make sure they are well-drained and properly mashed.
2. Can I substitute the spice cake mix?
   • If you prefer, you can use yellow cake mix or another flavor of your choice. Adjust the spices if using yellow cake mix to mimic the spice cake flavor.
3. Is the pecan topping necessary?
   • The pecans add a nice crunch and flavor, but they are optional. You can omit them if desired.
4. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
   • Yes, this cake can be made ahead of time. Store it covered in the refrigerator and reheat or serve at room temperature.
5. What if I don’t have sweetened condensed milk?
   • If you don’t have sweetened condensed milk, you can use evaporated milk and adjust the sugar to taste.

Conclusion

This Sweet Potato Cake with Spice Cake Crumble offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that are sure to impress. The creamy sweet potato layer combined with the spiced cake crumble creates a dessert that’s both comforting and indulgent. Perfect for a variety of occasions, this recipe is easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy. Serve it warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra touch of sweetness. This cake will quickly become a cherished recipe in your dessert collection. Enjoy the delightful taste and aroma of this comforting dessert!