Sweet Potato Bread

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Freshly baked sweet potato bread on a wooden cutting board

The moment you pull this sweet potato bread from the oven, your kitchen will be enveloped in a warm, inviting aroma, reminiscent of a cozy fall afternoon. The soft, golden loaf, with its slightly crackled top, invites you to slice into its fluffy interior. Each bite delivers a delightful balance of sweetness from the sugar and the subtle earthiness of the sweet potatoes, making it an instant classic for your baking repertoire.

What makes this recipe shine

So why should you embrace this sweet potato bread recipe? Let’s break it down. The balance of flavors is remarkable—while the sweet potatoes contribute moisture and a natural sweetness, the spices elevate it with warmth, creating a harmonious blend. Not to mention, it’s simple and straightforward; even a novice baker can succeed with just a few steps. Plus, it serves as a versatile base that can be enjoyed for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a unique dessert.

"This bread is now a family favorite—so hearty and comforting!"

Making Sweet Potato Bread

Creating this delicious sweet potato bread begins with a few straightforward steps. You’ll start by preparing your sweet potato puree—baking or boiling the potatoes until they are fork-tender is key for achieving that creamy texture. As you blend the ingredients, feel free to savor the vibrant colors and textures coming together in the bowl. Once you have everything ready, combine the dry and wet ingredients until just mixed, then pour the batter into a loaf pan. The crowning touch is a sweet cinnamon brown sugar topping that turns golden brown while baking, giving you that irresistible crust.

What you’ll need

Gather your items to get started on this delightful bake:

  • 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 3 eggs
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar (for topping)
  • 2 tablespoons butter (for topping)
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon (for topping)

When selecting sweet potatoes, opt for those that are firm, free of blemishes, and heavy for their size to ensure maximum flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a twist, consider using coconut milk instead of regular milk for an added layer of flavor.

How to cook it

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan with a bit of butter or non-stick spray.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy mashed sweet potatoes, granulated sugar, milk, and vegetable oil. Mix these ingredients until well blended and smooth.
  3. Incorporate the eggs, adding one at a time, and mix until well combined after each addition.
  4. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until evenly combined.
  5. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the sweet potato mixture, stirring just until incorporated—be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
  6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
  7. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon for the topping. Evenly sprinkle this mixture over the batter for that extra crunch on top.
  8. Bake for about 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
  9. Allow to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Sweet Potato Bread

Serving Suggestions

Once your sweet potato bread has cooled, it’s ready to shine on your table. Slice it generously and serve with a smear of softened butter, or even a drizzle of honey for an extra touch of sweetness. It pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making it an ideal breakfast or afternoon snack. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside spiced apple cider.

Keeping leftovers fresh

To keep your sweet potato bread at its best, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. If you’d like to extend its life, slice and freeze the bread, wrapping individual slices in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe bag. It will last several months this way. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply defrost it overnight in the refrigerator, or pop it in the toaster for a quick heat-up.

Expert Tips

  • Ensure you don’t overmix the batter—this can lead to a denser texture. Stir until just combined for a lighter loaf.
  • For a richer flavor, consider browning the butter before mixing it with the brown sugar topping—it adds an extra depth that can elevate your bread.
  • Don’t skip the spices! The combination of cinnamon and nutmeg not only enhances the sweetness but also brings warmth and nostalgia to your baking.

Ways to customize it

The beauty of sweet potato bread is its versatility. You can tweak it by adding a handful of chopped nuts or chocolate chips for added texture and richness. For a seasonal twist, consider incorporating dried cranberries or pecans. If you’re looking for a healthier option, feel free to substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for additional fiber.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh ones?
    Yes, canned sweet potatoes work well in this recipe. Just make sure to drain and mash them thoroughly.

  2. How do I know when the bread is done baking?
    Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, your bread is ready.

  3. Can I make this bread ahead of time?
    Absolutely! This bread stays fresh and flavorful for days, making it a great option for meal prep or holiday gatherings.

Sweet Potato Bread

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Sweet Potato Bread

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A moist and fluffy sweet potato bread with a delightful balance of sweetness and spices, perfect for breakfast or a cozy snack.

  • Total Time: 75 minutes
  • Yield: 1 loaf 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 3 eggs
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar (for topping)
  • 2 tablespoons butter (for topping)
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, milk, and vegetable oil. Mix until smooth.
  3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  4. In another bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
  5. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the sweet potato mixture until just combined.
  6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
  7. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon for the topping, then sprinkle over the batter.
  8. Bake for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
  9. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

For additional flavor, consider using coconut milk instead of regular milk. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to four days.

  • Author: alison
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60 minutes
  • Category: Baking
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 22g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 44g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg
Hey, I’m barbara !

As a chef, I believe good food doesn’t need to be complicated. I draw inspiration from comforting favorites and bold flavors, creating dishes that connect people and spark joy—one bite at a time.

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