If you’re on the hunt for a cozy, flavorful loaf that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, this Sweet Potato Maple Bread Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining the natural sweetness of tender sweet potatoes with the rich, comforting notes of maple syrup and warming spices, this bread is tender, moist, and utterly irresistible. It’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even a simple dessert, and it’s packed with vibrant color and a depth of taste that’ll have you reaching for seconds (and thirds) without hesitation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Sweet Potato Maple Bread Recipe plays a starring role, bringing together texture, sweetness, and spice in perfect harmony. The magical mix of pantry staples and a few special additions like maple syrup and pecans make it as delicious as it is straightforward to whip up.
- 15 ounces canned sweet potatoes: These add moisture, natural sweetness, and a gorgeous orange hue to the bread.
- 1 cup light brown sugar (packed): Provides a deep, caramel sweetness that complements the maple perfectly.
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the bread moist and tender without weighing it down.
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup: Infuses the loaf with that iconic, rich maple flavor we all love.
- 1/4 cup sour cream: Adds a subtle tang and helps create a soft crumb.
- 2 large eggs (room temp): Bind everything together while adding structure and richness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Elevates the flavor with a sweet, fragrant touch.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of the bread, provides just enough structure.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the bread rise beautifully and stay light.
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger: Adds a gentle hint of warmth and spice.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Offers a cozy, aromatic layer of flavor.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon: Infuses the bread with a classic, inviting spice.
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional): Adds a delightful crunch and nutty depth.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: For the sweet glaze that makes the bread even more special.
- 2-4 tablespoons whole milk: To achieve the perfect glaze consistency.
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon: Mixed into the glaze for a cinnamon-kissed finish.
How to Make Sweet Potato Maple Bread Recipe
Step 1: Get Your Oven Ready and Prepare Your Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures the temperature is just right when your bread goes in. Don’t forget to spray a 9×5 loaf pan with nonstick baking spray to keep your loaf from sticking, making the removal process smooth and perfect.
Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, mash the canned sweet potatoes until smooth. Next, stir in the brown sugar, oil, maple syrup, sour cream, vanilla extract, and eggs. Mixing these ingredients until well combined creates a luscious, sweet, and velvety base that makes this bread stand out.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, kosher salt, ginger, nutmeg, and cinnamon. This spice blend is essential because it adds those cozy fall flavors that make the Sweet Potato Maple Bread Recipe so memorable.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Slowly add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until everything is just incorporated. If you’re adding pecans, fold them in at this point for that lovely crunch. Be careful not to overmix, so your bread stays tender and light.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter evenly into your prepared loaf pan and pop it in the oven. Bake for 60 to 70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The enticing aroma of sweet potatoes, maple, and spices baking away will fill your kitchen—pure bliss!
Step 6: Cooling Time
Once out of the oven, let your loaf cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. This resting time helps the bread set and makes it easier to remove from the pan without crumbling.
Step 7: Glaze It Up
Whisk together powdered sugar, cinnamon, and milk until smooth for a drizzle-worthy glaze. Pour it over the warm bread for a sweet finish that complements the spiced loaf beautifully.
How to Serve Sweet Potato Maple Bread Recipe
Garnishes
A dusting of additional cinnamon or a sprinkle of chopped pecans on top of the glaze adds lovely texture and visual appeal. Fresh whipped cream or a small pat of butter on a warm slice can also elevate the experience to a decadent treat.
Side Dishes
This bread is lovely on its own but pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or even a dollop of Greek yogurt topped with honey and nuts. It also works as a subtle sweet contrast alongside savory breakfast eggs or a hearty soup.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the bread and serve it as part of a brunch spread with fresh fruit, nuts, and cheeses. You can also toast slices lightly and use them as bases for ricotta and fruit toppings, turning this simple bread into an impressive dessert or appetizer.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap your leftover Sweet Potato Maple Bread Recipe tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature. It should stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. For best texture, consume sooner rather than later.
Freezing
If you want to save bread for longer, slice it and freeze individual pieces in a freezer-safe bag. When you need a quick treat, simply thaw slices at room temperature or pop them straight into the toaster.
Reheating
To enjoy your bread warm, lightly toast or microwave a slice for 10 to 15 seconds. Warming it this way brings back that fresh-from-the-oven softness and sweetness in every bite.
FAQs
Can I use fresh sweet potatoes instead of canned?
Absolutely! Just be sure to cook and mash your fresh sweet potatoes beforehand, then drain off any excess moisture to avoid a soggy loaf.
Is the maple syrup necessary in the recipe?
Maple syrup is what gives this bread its signature flavor, but if you don’t have it, honey or molasses could be suitable substitutes, albeit with slightly different taste profiles.
Can I make this bread gluten-free?
You can experiment with gluten-free flour blends, but since this recipe relies on a balance of textures, results may vary. Adding a bit of xanthan gum can help mimic gluten’s binding properties.
Why is sour cream included?
Sour cream adds moisture and a subtle tang that balances the sweetness while making the bread wonderfully tender and soft.
How do I know when the bread is done baking?
The bread is ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs clinging to it, and the top is golden brown.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Sweet Potato Maple Bread Recipe, it’s bound to become one of your all-time favorites for good reason. The comforting flavors, moist texture, and simple preparation make it a standout treat for any time of day. Bake a loaf, share it with loved ones, and watch how quickly it disappears—enjoy every sweet, spicy bite!
Print
Sweet Potato Maple Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 60-70 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15-20 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Sweet Potato Maple Bread is a moist and flavorful loaf perfect for breakfast or a cozy snack. Made with canned sweet potatoes, warm spices, and a hint of maple syrup, it offers a delightful autumnal taste. The bread is topped with a cinnamon maple glaze that adds a sweet finish and a touch of elegance.
Ingredients
Bread Ingredients
- 15 ounces canned sweet potatoes (drained)
- 1 cup light brown sugar (packed)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil (or avocado oil, olive oil, whatever you prefer)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1/4 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1/2 cup pecans (chopped, optional)
Maple Cinnamon Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–4 tablespoons whole milk
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×5-inch loaf pan with nonstick baking spray to ensure easy removal of the bread and set it aside.
- Mash Sweet Potatoes and Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mash the drained sweet potatoes until smooth. Add the brown sugar, vegetable oil, maple syrup, sour cream, vanilla extract, and eggs. Mix thoroughly to combine all the wet ingredients into a smooth batter.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, kosher salt, ground ginger, nutmeg, and cinnamon until well blended.
- Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the sweet potato mixture and mix well until fully incorporated. Fold in the chopped pecans if using.
- Pour Batter and Bake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared loaf pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 60 to 70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool Bread: Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 15 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before glazing.
- Prepare the Maple Cinnamon Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, ground cinnamon, and 2 tablespoons of whole milk. Add more milk as needed, one teaspoon at a time, to reach a smooth, pourable consistency.
- Glaze the Bread: Once the bread has completely cooled, drizzle the maple cinnamon glaze evenly over the top of the loaf. Allow the glaze to set before slicing and serving.
Notes
- You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
- Chopped pecans are optional but add a nice crunch and texture.
- Ensure eggs are at room temperature to help create a smoother batter.
- For a nuttier flavor, try toasting the pecans before adding them.
- The glaze thickness can be adjusted by adding more or less milk according to your preference.
- Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
