Sweet Potato Bread is a delightful and wholesome treat that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with warm spices and a soft, tender crumb. This recipe boasts an irresistible flavor profile and a beautiful golden hue, making it an appealing addition to breakfast tables or afternoon snacks. Whether toasted with a pat of butter or enjoyed plain, sweet potato bread is sure to steal the spotlight.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will love this sweet potato bread recipe for its rich, comforting flavor and the ease with which it comes together. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes means you can reduce added sugars without sacrificing taste, making it a healthier option for those looking to enjoy a homemade treat. It’s perfect for busy mornings or cozy afternoons, fitting seamlessly into various dietary lifestyles, from vegetarian to gluten-free. Plus, the aroma that fills your kitchen while it’s baking is simply irresistible!
Tips and Tricks
To make the process easier, use canned or pre-cooked sweet potatoes if you’re short on time. For a more intense flavor, consider baking your sweet potatoes instead of boiling them; this caramelizes their sugars and enhances their natural sweetness. Additionally, make sure to measure your flour by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off to avoid dense bread. Don’t forget to let the bread cool completely before slicing to ensure clean cuts and a better texture.
Make Ahead Tips
For those looking to save time, you can prepare the sweet potato puree ahead of time. Cook and mash sweet potatoes up to three days in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Alternatively, the entire loaf can be baked ahead of time and stored at room temperature for up to three days or frozen for longer storage. Just wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.
Recipe Variations
This sweet potato bread recipe is highly adaptable! For a nutty flavor, add chopped walnuts or pecans. Try incorporating spices like nutmeg or cardamom for a unique twist. You can also substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture or use oat flour for a gluten-free version. For a more decadent treat, swirl in some chocolate or peanut butter before baking.
How to Serve
Serve your sweet potato bread warm, sliced thick, and toasted with a generous smear of butter or a drizzle of honey. It pairs beautifully with cream cheese or ricotta for a delightful breakfast or snack. For a festive touch, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar or top with a dollop of whipped cream for a dessert-like experience. Presentation is key, so consider serving on a rustic wooden board with a side of fresh fruit.
Pairing Suggestions
Complement your sweet potato bread with a warm cup of spiced chai tea or a rich coffee for a cozy breakfast experience. For a more adventurous pairing, a light, fruity white wine like Riesling can enhance the sweetness of the bread. On the side, consider serving a fresh fruit salad or a simple yogurt parfait to balance the flavors and add freshness.
How to Store
To store leftover sweet potato bread, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh at room temperature for about 3 days. For longer storage, freeze slices in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. The bread can be reheated in a toaster or oven for a few minutes to regain its softness.
Equipment Needed
For this recipe, you’ll need a mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, a whisk, and a loaf pan. A hand mixer is helpful for achieving a smoother batter, but a wooden spoon will also work well. If you don’t have a loaf pan, you can use a muffin tin for individual sweet potato muffins, adjusting the baking time accordingly.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this sweet potato bread vegan, substitute eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce, and use plant-based milk. For a dairy-free option, replace butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative. If you need to make it nut-free, simply omit any nuts used in variations and ensure your flour is processed in a nut-free facility.
Seasonal Adaptations
In autumn, consider adding pumpkin spice to the batter for a seasonal twist. In the spring, you can incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a unique flavor. During the summer, mix in grated zucchini or shredded carrots for added moisture and nutrition.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use canned sweet potatoes? Yes, just make sure to drain them well and measure the puree to avoid excess moisture.
What can I substitute for eggs? You can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water).
How long does it take to bake? The baking time is typically around 50-60 minutes, but check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips? Absolutely! Fold in your favorite mix-ins for added texture and flavor.
How To Make sweet potato bread recipe
Sweet Potato Bread
Sweet Potato Bread is a delightful and wholesome treat that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with warm spices and a soft, tender crumb.
Ingredients
- 1 cup sweet potato puree (cooked and cooled)
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar or coconut sugar
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil or melted coconut oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sweet potato puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice and serve as desired.
Nutrition Information
Yield
10Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 262Total Fat 13gSaturated Fat 3gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 10gCholesterol 37mgSodium 251mgCarbohydrates 32gFiber 1gSugar 14gProtein 4g
dinnerbytes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although dinnerbytes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
This sweet potato bread recipe is a simple yet delicious way to enjoy the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes while creating a comforting treat for your family and friends. With its versatility and ease of preparation, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and enjoy the delightful aroma and taste of homemade sweet potato bread!
