STEP 1: PREHEAT THE OVEN

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly and rises beautifully.

STEP 2: PREPARE THE SWEET POTATOES

1. Cook the Sweet Potatoes: Peel and chop 2-3 medium-sized sweet potatoes. Boil them in a pot of water until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and let cool.
2. Mash the Sweet Potatoes: Once cooled, mash the sweet potatoes until smooth. You should have about 2 cups of mashed sweet potatoes for the cake.

STEP 3: MIX THE CAKE BATTER

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the mashed sweet potatoes and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a denser cake.

STEP 4: BAKE THE CAKE

1. Prepare the Cake Pans: Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to prevent sticking. Alternatively, you can line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. Divide the Batter: Evenly divide the cake batter between the prepared pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula.
3. Bake: Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
4. Cool the Cakes: Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

STEP 5: MAKE THE CREAM CHEESE FROSTING

1. Beat the Cream Cheese and Butter: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together until smooth and creamy.
2. Add Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
3. Adjust Consistency: If the frosting is too thick, add milk one tablespoon at a time until the desired consistency is reached.

STEP 6: ASSEMBLE THE CAKE

1. Level the Cakes: If the cakes have domed on top, use a serrated knife to level them for even stacking.
2. Frost the First Layer: Place one cake layer on a serving platter. Spread a generous amount of cream cheese frosting over the top.
3. Add the Second Layer: Place the second cake layer on top, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Frost the Entire Cake: Use the remaining frosting to cover the top and sides of the cake. Smooth it out with a spatula for a polished look.
5. Decorate (Optional): For added flair, you can sprinkle chopped pecans or toasted coconut on top of the cake.

STEP 7: SERVE

Once the cake is frosted, slice it into generous pieces and serve. Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful treat.