The Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread Recipe is a cozy and delightful treat that perfectly balances moist, tender sweet potatoes with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of ginger. This bread feels like a comforting hug in every bite, bringing a gorgeous natural sweetness and rich texture that’s perfect for breakfast, snacking, or even a light dessert. I love how this recipe transforms humble ingredients into a loaf that fills your kitchen with the most inviting aromas and invites everyone to gather around. Whether you’re new to baking with sweet potatoes or looking to add a new favorite to your repertoire, this recipe is so approachable and delicious, it’s bound to become a classic you reach for again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread Recipe uses simple, staple ingredients that come together beautifully to create a moist, flavorful loaf. Each one plays an important role: the sweet potatoes add natural sweetness and moisture, the spices bring that warm autumnal comfort, and the nuts add a satisfying crunch that complements the soft crumb.
- Mashed sweet potatoes: The star ingredient providing creamy texture and subtle sweetness, make sure they are well mashed for the best consistency.
- All-purpose flour: The base that gives the bread its structure and density without being heavy.
- Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness that balances the earthiness of the sweet potatoes.
- Brown sugar: Adds moisture and a rich, caramel-like depth of flavor to the bread.
- Baking soda: Helps the bread rise and become light and fluffy.
- Baking powder: Works alongside baking soda to give an even rise and tenderness.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Ground cinnamon: The warm spice that defines the bread’s comforting flavor.
- Ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle, fragrant spice that blends wonderfully with cinnamon.
- Ground ginger: Brings a gentle spicy kick that livens up the flavor.
- Eggs: Bind everything together and add richness.
- Melted unsalted butter: Provides moisture and a luscious mouthfeel.
- Milk: Adds just enough liquid to create a smooth batter.
- Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors with a sweet, fragrant note.
- Chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): For crunchy texture and nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the spices.
How to Make Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper to ensure your bread comes out cleanly. This initial step might seem minor, but it’s essential for achieving a perfect crust and easy removal of your loaf once baked.
Step 2: Cook and Mash the Sweet Potatoes
Peel and boil your sweet potatoes until they’re tender and easily pierced with a fork. Drain them thoroughly to avoid excess moisture, then mash them until smooth. Let them cool completely before mixing into the batter—this helps keep the texture just right and prevents overcooking the eggs later.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Combining your dry ingredients first makes it easier to ensure everything is evenly distributed, which is key for consistent flavor throughout your bread.
Step 4: Combine the Wet Ingredients
Next, in a separate bowl, whisk the mashed sweet potatoes with the eggs, melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract. This mixture is going to be delightfully smooth and aromatic, setting the stage for a rich and moist loaf.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the sweet potato mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as that can lead to a tougher texture. The batter should be thick but moist, full of promise for that perfect slice of bread.
Step 6: Add the Nuts (Optional)
If you like a bit of crunch, fold in chopped walnuts or pecans now. They add a wonderful textural contrast and nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the warm spices.
Step 7: Pour and Smooth the Batter
Transfer your batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even bake. This helps the bread rise uniformly and ensures each slice looks as appealing as it tastes.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Bake in your preheated oven for 60 to 70 minutes. You’ll know your Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread Recipe is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The loaf should be golden brown on top and fill your kitchen with the most heavenly, spicy aromas.
How to Serve Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread Recipe
Garnishes
A fresh slice of this bread on its own is heavenly, but consider a light spread of honey butter or cream cheese to add a creamy, slightly sweet contrast that enhances the spices beautifully. A sprinkle of additional chopped nuts on top also makes a lovely touch for texture and presentation.
Side Dishes
This bread pairs wonderfully with a bowl of warm, spiced apple cider or a cup of your favorite coffee or tea. For a heartier breakfast or snack, serve it alongside a fresh fruit salad or a dollop of Greek yogurt topped with cinnamon and honey.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings or brunch, slice this bread thickly and toast it lightly, then drizzle with maple syrup and add a handful of seasonal berries for a stunning and delicious display. You can also turn leftover slices into French toast or bread pudding, making sure no crumb goes to waste.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread Recipe fresh by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or storing it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps it moist while maintaining its tender crumb.
Freezing
This bread freezes beautifully. Slice it first, then wrap individual slices or the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap and foil before placing in a freezer bag. It will keep for up to three months, perfect for those moments when you want a cozy treat ready to pop into the oven.
Reheating
To enjoy your bread fresh out of the oven again, simply warm slices in a toaster or oven at 325°F until heated through. This revives the flavors and texture, making it taste like it was freshly baked all over again.
FAQs
Can I use canned sweet potatoes for this Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread Recipe?
Canned sweet potatoes can be used in a pinch, but fresh cooked sweet potatoes provide a better texture and flavor. Make sure to drain canned sweet potatoes well to avoid extra moisture in the batter.
Is it necessary to include the nuts?
Not at all—nuts are optional in this recipe. They add a lovely crunch, but the bread is delicious on its own or even with mix-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruit if you want to get creative.
Can I substitute the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour?
You can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier loaf. Keep in mind it may result in a denser texture, so don’t overmix and consider adding a bit more milk if the batter feels too thick.
How do I know when the bread is fully baked?
The best way is to insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf—if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s done. The top should be golden brown and spring back slightly when pressed.
Can I add other spices or flavorings?
Absolutely! While the cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger work fabulously, feel free to experiment with a pinch of cloves or cardamom to suit your taste. You can also swirl in a cinnamon-sugar mixture before baking for an extra sweet surprise.
Final Thoughts
This Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread Recipe is one of those special creations that feels like a warm kitchen hug, full of comforting spices and moist sweetness. I encourage you to try it soon—it’s simple, rewarding, and sure to bring joy to anyone lucky enough to share it. Once you do, I bet it will become a cherished recipe in your home just like it is in mine.
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Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 20m
- Cook Time: 1h 10m
- Total Time: 1h 30m
- Yield: 1 loaf (approximately 10-12 slices)
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Deliciously moist and aromatic Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread, perfect for breakfast or a cozy snack. This bread combines mashed sweet potatoes with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, creating a flavorful loaf complemented by optional crunchy nuts. Easy to prepare and baked to golden perfection, this bread is a comforting treat for sweet potato lovers.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup mashed sweet potatoes (about 2 medium sweet potatoes)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Sweet Potatoes: Peel and boil the sweet potatoes until tender, then drain and mash them until smooth. Allow the mashed sweet potatoes to cool completely before use.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Mix thoroughly to distribute all spices and leavening agents evenly.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the cooled mashed sweet potatoes, eggs, melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the sweet potato mixture, stirring gently just until incorporated. Take care not to overmix to keep the bread tender.
- Add Nuts: If desired, fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans carefully into the batter for added texture and flavor.
- Prepare for Baking: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top evenly with a spatula to ensure consistent baking.
- Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 60 to 70 minutes. The bread is ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and allow to cool before slicing.
Notes
- You can substitute the walnuts or pecans with other nuts like almonds or omit them for a nut-free version.
- Ensure mashed sweet potatoes are cooled before mixing to avoid cooking the eggs prematurely.
- Storage: Keep the bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with a plant-based margarine and use almond or soy milk instead of regular milk.
- This bread also freezes well; wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
