Growing up in an Italian household, bread was always on the table. But when I first tasted sweet potato bread during a visit to a friend’s Southern kitchen, I instantly fell in love with its tender crumb and deep, earthy sweetness. My nonna used to say, “Pane buono scalda il cuore” — good bread warms the heart. And this loaf certainly does. I’ve since blended the Southern tradition with some old-world rustic charm to create a loaf that’s moist, flavorful, and deeply comforting.
In this recipe, we’ll create a sweet potato bread that’s soft, lightly spiced, and perfect for slathering with butter or drizzling with honey. Whether you’re enjoying it as a breakfast treat, an afternoon snack, or even as a holiday side dish, this loaf is a hug in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Sweet Potato Bread
- Super Moist: Thanks to the mashed sweet potatoes.
- Perfectly Spiced: A subtle hint of cinnamon and nutmeg gives it that cozy warmth.
- Versatile: Great for breakfast, snack time, or even paired with savory dishes.
- Easy to Make: No fancy equipment needed, just a bowl, whisk, and loaf pan.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup mashed cooked sweet potatoes (about 1 medium sweet potato)
- 2/3 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil (or melted butter for a richer flavor)
- 1/4 cup milk (whole or plant-based)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional Add-ins:
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries or raisins
Instructions
1. Prepare Your Sweet Potato
- Boil or roast your sweet potato until tender (roasting brings out more sweetness).
- Peel and mash until smooth. Set aside to cool slightly.
2. Preheat & Prep
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
4. Mix the Wet Ingredients
- In another bowl, whisk the mashed sweet potato, brown sugar, eggs, oil, milk, and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Combine Wet & Dry
- Gradually fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined — don’t overmix!
6. Add Optional Goodies
- If using, fold in nuts and/or dried fruit.
7. Bake
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic: Warm with a pat of butter and a drizzle of honey.
- Savory: Pair with sharp cheddar cheese or a slice of salty prosciutto.
- Sweet: Toasted with cream cheese and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar.
- Festive: Add candied ginger or chocolate chips for a holiday twist.
Storage Tips
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze slices for up to 3 months.
Sarah’s Nonna’s Tip 🌿
Nonna always said, “Bread should be made with love and patience.” Take your time mashing the sweet potatoes well — the smoother the mash, the more tender your bread will be. And never forget to taste the batter for balance in sweetness and spice (yes, raw batter taste testing is allowed in nonna’s kitchen)!
FAQs
Can I use canned sweet potato puree?
Yes, but make sure it’s unsweetened and 100% pure.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
What if I don’t have brown sugar?
You can use granulated sugar with a tablespoon of molasses for a similar flavor.
Can I make muffins with this recipe?
Yes! Just adjust the bake time to about 20-25 minutes.
Conclusion
There’s something undeniably comforting about a loaf of homemade sweet potato bread — the aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg filling the kitchen, the tender crumb that melts in your mouth, and the subtle sweetness from the roasted sweet potatoes. This bread is more than just a recipe; it’s a story of warmth, tradition, and simple pleasures. Whether you’re enjoying a slice on a chilly morning with a cup of coffee or serving it as part of a festive brunch spread, this sweet potato bread brings joy to every bite.
I invite you to give this recipe a try, share it with loved ones, and maybe even create your own special twist. After all, the best recipes are the ones that tell your story.