Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread

If you’re looking for a comforting treat that fills your home with the irresistible aroma of cinnamon and sweetness, look no further! This Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread is not only delicious but also incredibly simple to whip up. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, cozy family gatherings, or even as a delightful gift for a friend. Every bite offers a wonderful balance of hearty sweet potato goodness and the warm embrace of spices that will make your heart smile.

I love how this recipe combines wholesome ingredients with that nostalgic flavor we all crave. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven or toasted with a little butter, it’s bound to become a favorite in your household!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for both beginner and seasoned bakers.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the sweet flavors and soft texture—great for breakfast or snack time!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake a loaf on the weekend and enjoy it throughout the week; it stays fresh for days.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet potatoes, cinnamon, and nutmeg creates a unique taste that feels like a warm hug.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making this Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread is simple thanks to these wholesome ingredients. You may already have many of them in your pantry!

For the Bread:

• 1½ cups sweet potatoes (mashed)
• ½ cup butter (softened)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

For the Topping:

• ¼ cup granulated sugar (for topping)
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon (for topping)

Variations

This recipe is versatile, allowing you to customize it to suit your taste! Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
• Mix in Dried Fruit: Consider adding raisins or cranberries for an extra burst of flavor.
• Spice It Up: Experiment with adding ginger or cardamom to elevate the spice profile.
• Swap the Sweetener: Use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar for a deeper flavor.

How to Make Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Greasing a 9.25 x 5.25 inch loaf pan is important at this stage; you can also line it with parchment paper if you’d like easier removal later on.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, or using a mixer, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it helps incorporate air into the mixture, making your bread light and tender.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Sweet Potatoes

Add the eggs one at a time while mixing at low speed. Then introduce the vanilla extract along with those lovely mashed sweet potatoes. Mixing these wet ingredients well ensures that everything blends beautifully.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This helps distribute the baking soda evenly throughout the flour so that your bread rises perfectly.

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this keeps your bread soft! Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. In a small bowl, mix together the topping sugar and cinnamon then sprinkle it generously over the batter—this adds an irresistible crunch!

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 55–65 minutes on the center rack of your preheated oven until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. After baking, let it cool on a rack for about 15 minutes before removing from the pan. Slice up this delicious Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread and serve warm—or store it in a ziplock bag in the fridge for up to five days!

Enjoy every slice!

Pro Tips for Making Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread

Baking this delightful Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread is simple and rewarding, especially with a few handy tips that will make your loaf even more scrumptious!

• Use fresh sweet potatoes: Freshly mashed sweet potatoes not only enhance the flavor but also provide better moisture and texture compared to canned options.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing just until combined ensures your bread remains soft and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a denser texture.

• Check for doneness correctly: Instead of relying solely on time, insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs for perfect doneness.

• Cool completely before slicing: Allowing your bread to cool for at least 15 minutes helps it firm up, making slicing easier and preventing it from crumbling.

• Experiment with add-ins: Consider adding nuts or dried fruits like walnuts or raisins for added texture and flavor. Just be sure to adjust baking time slightly if you add heavier ingredients.

How to Serve Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread

Serving Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread is as delightful as making it! The warm spices and inviting aroma create a cozy atmosphere that’s perfect for any occasion.

Garnishes

• Cream cheese spread: A light layer of cream cheese adds a tangy contrast that beautifully complements the sweetness of the bread.
• Chopped pecans: Sprinkle some chopped pecans on top for an extra crunch and nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with cinnamon.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad brings a burst of color and freshness, balancing the richness of the bread with vibrant flavors.
• Yogurt parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a delicious breakfast or snack that complements the sweet notes of the bread.
• Hot tea or coffee: A warm beverage like chai tea or freshly brewed coffee enhances the cozy vibe while providing a comforting pairing to each slice.
• Simple green salad: A light green salad drizzled with vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the sweetness, making it an excellent side option for brunch or lunch.

With these serving suggestions, your Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread will surely be a hit at any gathering! Enjoy sharing this scrumptious treat with friends and family.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy this delicious treat whenever the craving strikes.

Storing Leftovers

• Keep any leftover sweet potato cinnamon bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate the bread in a ziplock bag for up to 5 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the bread cool completely after baking.
• Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil or place it in a freezer-safe bag.
• It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, simply slice off a piece and warm it in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.
• Alternatively, you can toast individual slices for a delightful crunch that enhances its flavor.

FAQs

If you have questions about making Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I use fresh sweet potatoes instead of canned?

Yes! Just make sure to cook and mash your sweet potatoes before adding them to the batter. Freshly mashed sweet potatoes will provide great flavor and moisture.

How do I know when my Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached, your bread is ready. Remember, baking times may vary depending on your oven!

Can I substitute other spices for cinnamon?

Absolutely! While cinnamon is key for that classic flavor, feel free to experiment with spices like ginger or allspice for a unique twist on your Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread.

Is this bread suitable for freezing?

Yes! This Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread freezes beautifully. Just wrap it well after cooling and store it in the freezer. You’ll love having slices on hand whenever you want!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread as much as I do! It’s not just a recipe; it’s a warm hug in loaf form, perfect for sharing or savoring all by yourself. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh out of the oven or toasted with a pat of butter, this bread brings comfort and joy to every bite. Happy baking!