Caramel-Frosted Potato Cake - Brenda Gantt (2024)

• Cake

• By recipeshub
• July 31, 2023

Delight in the nostalgic flavors of the Caramel-Frosted Potato Cake, a cherished recipe passed down through generations in the heart of Manitowoc, Wisconsin. Originally received from a sister-in-law in 1941, this cake has become a beloved Christmas tradition, captivating the taste buds of family and friends alike. Despite its name, the cake’s main ingredient, mashed potatoes, subtly contributes to its moist and tender texture, rather than dominating the flavor.

INGREDIENTS:

• ¾ cup butter, softened
• 2 cups sugar
• 4 eggs, separated
• 1 cup mashed potatoes (without added milk and butter)
• 2 ounces German sweet chocolate, melted
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves
• ½ cup whole milk
• 1 cup chopped walnuts

FROSTING:

• ¼ cup butter
• ½ cup packed brown sugar
• 1¼ cups confectioners’ sugar
• ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 to 4 tablespoons whole milk

PREPARATIONS:

1. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg yolks, mashed potatoes, and melted chocolate. Gradually add the flour, baking soda, nutmeg, and cloves, alternating with milk, beating well after each addition. Stir in chopped walnuts.
2. In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form, then gently fold them into the cake batter. Pour the batter into a greased and floured 10-inch fluted tube pan.
3. Bake the cake at 350° for 55-60 minutes or until it springs back when lightly touched. Allow it to cool for 10 minutes before removing it from the pan and transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
4. For the frosting, melt the butter in a small saucepan. Add brown sugar and cook and stir over low heat for 2 minutes. Remove from the heat and let it cool for 3 minutes. Stir in confectioners’ sugar, vanilla, and enough milk to achieve a thick pouring consistency. Pour the frosting over the cake.

YIELD: 12-16 servings

BAKING TIME: 55 minutes (plus cooling)

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

• Ensure the egg whites are beaten to stiff peaks for a light and airy cake texture.
• Grease and flour the pan thoroughly to prevent the cake from sticking during the baking process.
• Allow the cake to cool sufficiently before applying the frosting to achieve the desired consistency.

TIPS:

• To create a decorative touch, dust the cake with confectioners’ sugar or sprinkle chopped walnuts over the frosting before serving.
• For a richer flavor, substitute the whole milk in the frosting with heavy cream or evaporated milk.

In conclusion, the Caramel-Frosted Potato Cake serves as a cherished Christmas tradition in Manitowoc, Wisconsin, captivating both the taste buds and the heart. Passed down through decades, this beloved recipe showcases the creativity of home cooks, ingeniously incorporating mashed potatoes to yield a moist and tender cake.

As the cake bakes, the inviting aroma of nutmeg and cloves fills the kitchen, evoking memories of festive gatherings and joyous celebrations. The addition of German sweet chocolate imparts a delightful richness, complementing the other flavors in perfect harmony.

While the name may raise curiosity about its potato association, the cake’s essence lies in its heartwarming history. Using leftover mashed potatoes not only reflects resourcefulness but also transforms the cake into a delightful treat that holds a special place in the hearts of Manitowoc’s residents.

The Caramel-Frosted Potato Cake brings forth the essence of traditions passed down through generations, where family recipes weave tales of love, togetherness, and the joy of sharing. The anticipation of this cake gracing the holiday table becomes a cherished part of the Christmas festivities, evoking excitement and delight.

The rich, caramel-infused frosting crowns the cake, elevating its appeal and adding a touch of elegance to the presentation. As the smooth caramel cascades over the cake, it becomes a centerpiece of indulgence, inviting everyone to savor a slice of this delightful creation.

As the legacy of the Caramel-Frosted Potato Cake continues to endure, it remains a symbol of warmth, love, and culinary ingenuity. It embodies the spirit of community and the joy of sharing cherished recipes with loved ones, fostering a sense of connection and belonging.

So, this holiday season, allow the Caramel-Frosted Potato Cake to grace your table and create new memories with its heartwarming charm. As you savor each heavenly bite, let it remind you of the joy found in family traditions and the pleasure of sharing timeless recipes with those you hold dear.