Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread Recipe

If you’re craving a cozy, flavorful treat that feels like a warm hug from the inside, this Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread is exactly what you need. Combining the natural sweetness and moist texture of mashed sweet potatoes with a perfect blend of cinnamon and nutmeg, this bread is not just delicious but also beautifully aromatic. It’s an incredibly comforting loaf that stands out with its tender crumb and slightly crisp cinnamon-sugar topping, making every bite a delight whether for breakfast, a snack, or a sweet ending to your day. Trust me, once you try this Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread, it will quickly become a staple in your kitchen for its heartwarming taste and inviting aroma.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These simple ingredients work harmoniously to create the rich texture and warm flavors of the Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread. Each one plays a vital role—from the smooth sweetness of mashed sweet potatoes to the spicy kick of cinnamon and nutmeg, giving this bread its irresistible character.

• 1½ cups sweet potatoes mashed: Adds moisture, natural sweetness, and a lovely orange hue.
• ½ cup butter softened: Provides richness and a tender crumb to the bread.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the bread just right without overpowering the sweet potato flavor.
• 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and help the bread rise beautifully.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a subtle sweetness.
• 1½ cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of the bread, giving structure and body.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Acts as a leavening agent to ensure a light and fluffy texture.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and highlights other flavors.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Brings warmth and depth to every mouthful.
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a hint of spicy earthiness that complements the cinnamon perfectly.
• ¼ cup granulated sugar for topping: Gives the bread a sweet, crunchy crust.
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon for topping: Creates a fragrant cinnamon-sugar finish that’s irresistible.

How to Make Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9.25 x 5.25 inch loaf pan thoroughly, or line it with parchment paper if you want an easier time removing the bread once baked. This step sets you up for perfect baking and ensures your loaf won’t stick, giving you that flawless presentation.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl or with your mixer, beat the softened butter together with 1 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light, creamy, and fluffy. This process incorporates air, which helps give your bread a tender and airy texture.

Step 3: Add Eggs, Vanilla, and Sweet Potatoes

Next, add the eggs one at a time while mixing on low speed to maintain that fluffiness. Follow with the vanilla extract, then fold in the mashed sweet potatoes. The sweet potatoes lend moisture and a natural sweetness that makes this bread uniquely delicious.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients Separately

Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg in a separate bowl. This ensures the spices and leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the batter, giving consistent flavor and rise.

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a denser texture, so keep it light and tender. Then pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top for even baking.

Step 6: Add the Cinnamon-Sugar Topping and Bake

Mix together the ¼ cup granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon in a small bowl, then sprinkle this generously over the batter. This topping creates a wonderfully sweet and slightly crunchy crust after baking. Pop the loaf onto the center rack of your preheated oven and bake for 55 to 65 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center — it should come out clean when the bread is fully baked.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Once out of the oven, allow your Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread to cool in the pan for 15 minutes. Then gently remove it and let it cool fully on a wire rack before slicing. This resting time lets the flavors settle and the texture firm up for perfect slices every time.

How to Serve Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread

Garnishes

A light spread of butter or cream cheese complements the bread’s sweetness perfectly. For an extra special touch, you can drizzle a little honey or maple syrup on top just before serving. These simple garnishes elevate the warm spices and rich sweet potato flavor beautifully.

Side Dishes

Pair your Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread with a cup of hot coffee, chai tea, or warm apple cider for a cozy treat. It also works wonderfully alongside fresh fruit salads or a dollop of Greek yogurt for breakfast or brunch that feels both indulgent and wholesome.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the bread thick and toasting it lightly for a crunchy exterior with a soft inside. You can also spread your favorite nut butter and sprinkle with chopped nuts or a handful of seeds for extra texture. For a dessert twist, serve small slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread fresh by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or storing in a large ziplock bag, then refrigerate. It will stay moist and delicious for up to 5 days, making it a perfect make-ahead snack for busy mornings or quick afternoon treats.

Freezing

If you want to save the bread for later, wrap it well in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread keeps well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge or on the counter for a few hours.

Reheating

To bring your bread back to life, toast individual slices or warm them in an oven set to 300°F for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it might make the bread a bit soggy. Reheating restores that freshly baked feeling and aromatic warmth.

FAQs

Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Just make sure to drain them well and mash thoroughly before using. This can be a convenient shortcut without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Is it possible to make this bread gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix, but be sure it includes xanthan gum or another binder. The texture might be slightly different, but it will still taste delightful.

Can I add nuts or fruits to the batter?

Definitely! Chopped pecans, walnuts, or dried cranberries make great additions that add crunch and bursts of flavor. Just fold them in after mixing the batter so they’re evenly distributed.

How long does this bread stay fresh at room temperature?

Because of the moisture from the sweet potatoes, it’s best to store the bread in the fridge if you plan to keep it for more than a day or two. At room temperature, it will stay fresh for about 24 hours.

Can I make this bread vegan?

You can try substituting eggs with flax eggs and using a vegan butter alternative. The texture may vary slightly, but the warm spices and sweet potato flavor will still shine through beautifully.

Final Thoughts

This Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread is the kind of recipe that adds joy to your day with every bite. Its simple ingredients, cozy flavors, and moist texture make it a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for sharing or savoring solo. I can’t wait for you to bake this at home – it’s a soul-soothing treat you’ll want to keep coming back to again and again.

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