Mother'S White Potato Cake

Prep: 15 min Cook: 30 min Cuisine: American

A moist, chocolate-flavored potato cake with a rich, tender crumb, perfect for family gatherings or tea time, offering a unique twist on traditional desserts.

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Ingredients

  • 3 Tbsp cocoa
  • 1/2 c Crisco
  • 1 c mashed potatoes
  • 2 c sugar
  • 1 c warm water
  • 3 c flour
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • pinch of salt
  • 1 to 2 tsp vanilla flavoring

Instructions

  1. Mix together cocoa, Crisco, and mashed potatoes while potatoes are hot.
  2. Add remaining ingredients and mix well.
  3. Grease a pan and pour in the mixture.
  4. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using unsweetened dark cocoa instead of regular cocoa. If you're out of Crisco, unsalted butter can be a good substitute. Ensure the mashed potatoes are well-mixed and free of lumps for a smoother cake texture. Adding a pinch of cinnamon can enhance the flavor profile as well.

Serving Suggestions

This cake is delightful on its own but can be enhanced with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Pair it with Copper Pennies (Carrot Salad) for a balanced meal or serve alongside Delores' Winter Salad for a refreshing contrast. It also makes a great brunch item or dessert at gatherings.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, simply microwave a slice for 10-15 seconds or warm it in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes until heated through.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Mother'S White Potato Cake contains roughly 129 calories, with 3g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (27% of the Daily Value) and calcium (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2231mg per serving (97% of the Daily Value).

129 kcal 6% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 2.5g 5% DV
Total Fat 2.8g 4% DV
Carbs 25.6g 9% DV
Fiber 3.8g 14% DV
Sugar 0.1g

Electrolytes

Sodium 2231.3mg 97% DV
Potassium 379.7mg 8% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin C 24.7mg 27% DV
Calcium 302.2mg 23% DV
Iron 1.3mg 7% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use sweet potatoes instead of white potatoes?

Yes, you can substitute mashed sweet potatoes for white potatoes in this recipe. However, it will alter the flavor and color of the cake, giving it a sweeter and more vibrant hue. Adjust the sugar slightly if you prefer a less sweet cake.

What can I do if the cake is too dry?

If your cake turns out dry, consider adding a simple syrup made from equal parts sugar and water brushed over the cooled cake. You can also serve it with a sauce or ice cream to add moisture. Ensuring the cake is not overbaked is key to maintaining its moistness.

Is this cake suitable for vegan diets?

To make this cake vegan, substitute Crisco with a plant-based margarine and replace the warm water with a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk. Make sure the cocoa is dairy-free as well. This way, you can enjoy a delicious vegan version of this classic recipe.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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