Sweet potato Dump Cake is the perfect blend of convenience and delightful taste that will leave a lasting impression at any gathering. This dish incorporates the creamy richness of sweet potatoes, making it a delectable dessert that is incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a holiday celebration or simply craving a sweet treat, this sweet potato dump cake will satisfy your sweet tooth.
I vividly remember the first time I made this sweet potato dump cake for a family Thanksgiving. I was tasked with desserts and, being short on time with so many other dishes to prepare, needed something quick yet impressive. As the cake baked, the scent of cinnamon and Sweet Potatoes filled the kitchen, reminiscent of holiday warmth and comfort, putting everyone in a festive mood even before dinner was served.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe shines due to its simplicity and rich flavors. You will appreciate that it requires minimal ingredients, most of which are pantry staples, saving you a trip to the store. Its unique flavor profile combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg. Topped with a buttery, crunchy crust, it’s a crowd-pleaser for those busy holiday dinners or any special occasion.
Ingredients Notes
When selecting sweet potatoes for this recipe, opt for the orange-fleshed varieties as they offer a natural sweetness and creamy texture. If you’re running low on time, canned sweet potatoes can be a convenient substitute. For the topping, a classic yellow cake mix works wonders, but feel free to experiment with spice cake mix for an added depth of flavor.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Meanwhile, prepare the sweet potato mixture by mashing cooked sweet potatoes in a bowl until smooth. Add milk, eggs, sugar, and spices, and stir until well-blended.
Step 2
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and pour the sweet potato mixture evenly across the bottom. Ensure the layer is smooth to serve as the base for the cake.
Step 3
Sprinkle a packet of dry yellow cake mix evenly over the sweet potato layer. Take care to distribute the mix uniformly so that the cake bakes evenly.
Step 4
Pour melted butter over the entire dish, ensuring that the dry cake mix is well-covered. This step is crucial for forming the crusty topping that distinguishes this cake.
Step 5
Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Let it cool for at least 15 minutes before serving.
Storage Options
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you wish to extend its shelf life, consider freezing individual portions wrapped in plastic wrap and then foil. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Variations & Substitutions
For a dairy-free version, swap milk with almond or coconut milk and use a dairy-free cake mix. For a nutty twist, add crushed pecans or walnuts to the topping before baking. Vegans can use a flax egg mixture to replace regular eggs, maintaining the cake’s structure while adhering to dietary preferences.
Serving Suggestions
This sweet potato dump cake pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla Ice Cream. It’s an excellent choice for holiday meals, potlucks, or simply as a delightful weeknight dessert.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this dish in advance? Absolutely! Prepare the sweet potato base and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, assemble the remaining layers and proceed with baking as directed.
What if I don’t have yellow cake mix? No worries—a white or spiced cake mix can be used as an alternative. Each will lend a slightly different flavor but will still result in a deliciously moist cake.
Is there a way to make this cake less sweet? Yes, you can adjust the sugar quantity in the sweet potato mixture or opt for unsweetened almond milk if substituting milk. Ensuring balance in sweetness will enhance rather than overpower the natural flavors.
This sweet potato dump cake is sure to become a family favorite with its ease of preparation and comforting flavors. It embodies the joy of baking with its aromatic spices and the taste of home-cooked goodness. Enjoy making and sharing this beloved dessert!

Sweet Potato Dump Cake Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2.5 cups mashed sweet potatoes cooked and cooled
- 1 cup sugar
- 0.5 cup melted butter
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, mix together sweet potatoes, sugar, melted butter, and vanilla until well combined.
- Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.