Name: Heavenly Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread for Cozy Mornings
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 95 min
Ingredients: 1 cup mashed sweet potatoes (fresh or canned); 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 cup granulated sugar (or brown sugar); 2 large eggs (or flaxseed meal as a substitute); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or almond extract for variation); 2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend); 1 teaspoon baking soda (fresh); 1/2 teaspoon salt (sea salt or kosher salt); 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (adjust to taste); 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional); 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (adjust based on preference); 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (preferably freshly ground)

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The rich aroma of cinnamon and sweet potatoes wafting through the kitchen instantly transforms any day into a cozy celebration. Today, I’m thrilled to share my go-to recipe for Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread, a delightful quick bread that captures the essence of fall baking. Not only is it incredibly easy to whip up, but it’s also the perfect way to savor the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes while enjoying a warm, tender loaf. This comforting treat strikes the right balance between moistness and a satisfying crunch, thanks to its sugary cinnamon topping. Whether you’re looking to impress at brunch or indulge in a delightful snack, this recipe is your ticket to homemade bliss. So, are you ready to turn your kitchen into a haven of warmth and irresistible aromas? Let’s dive into this delicious baking adventure together!

Why choose Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread?

Comforting, Cozy Flavors: The warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg create a comforting aroma that fills your kitchen, making it a perfect addition to any cozy morning.
Quick & Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible for bakers of all levels. You can whip up a loaf in no time!
Moist & Tender Texture: The sweet potatoes ensure a moist crumb, while the crunchy topping adds that delightful contrast we all crave.
Perfect for Sharing: This bread is a crowd-pleaser! Serve it fresh at brunch or package it up as a thoughtful gift—everyone will love it.
Versatile Options: Want to change things up? Try adding raisins or chopped nuts for exciting flavor variations. It pairs beautifully with cream cheese or honey, too. Enjoy this delightful treat and check out our Sweet Potato Breakfast for more delicious inspirations!

Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread Ingredients

For the Bread

Sweet Potatoes – Provides natural sweetness and moisture; substitute mashed canned sweet potatoes or yams if fresh is unavailable.
Butter – Adds richness and moisture; use unsalted butter for precise control over salt levels.
Granulated Sugar – Contributes sweetness and aids in achieving a tender crust; consider using brown sugar for additional depth of flavor.
Eggs – Acts as a binding agent and provides structure; use flaxseed meal as an egg substitute for a vegan option.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor profile; no direct substitute, but almond extract can add a different depth.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend to make it gluten-free.
Baking Soda – Helps the bread rise; ensure it is fresh for the best results.
Salt – Balances the sweetness; sea salt or kosher salt can be used.
Ground Cinnamon – Adds warm spice flavor; adjust according to taste preference.
Ground Nutmeg – Enhances warmth and aromatic qualities; omit if not available.

For the Topping

Granulated Sugar – Provides a crunchy finish; optional to adjust the amount based on sweetness preference.
Cinnamon – Complements the flavor of the bread; ensure it’s freshly ground for the best taste.

This Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread is bound to become a beloved addition to your baking repertoire!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, grease a 9.25 x 5.25 inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray. For an easy release, you can also line the bottom with parchment paper. This step ensures your Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread bakes evenly and comes out effortlessly after baking.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream together 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. Next, add in 2 eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Finally, incorporate 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1 cup of mashed sweet potatoes, blending until smooth.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg. Ensure all dry ingredients are evenly combined to prevent any clumping when you mix them into your wet ingredients later. This step creates the flavorful base for your Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently with a spatula or wooden spoon. Be careful not to overmix; stop when just combined. This will help you achieve a moist and tender texture for your Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread. The batter should be somewhat thick and slightly lumpy.

Step 5: Pour into the Loaf Pan
Carefully pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, using a rubber spatula to scrape down the sides of the bowl. Smooth the top for an even surface. This is where your flavorful Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread starts to take shape, ready for the scrumptious topping you’ll add next.

Step 6: Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture evenly across the top of the batter in the loaf pan. This crunchy topping adds delightful texture and flavor, enhancing the warm cinnamon-spiced essence of your Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread.

Step 7: Bake the Bread
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 55-65 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the bread is ready. The top should be golden brown and spring back slightly when pressed.

Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. As it cools, the flavors meld beautifully, making your Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread a perfect treat to slice and serve warm, perhaps with a little butter or cream cheese!

Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread Variations

Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own; the fragrant aroma of cinnamon and sweet potatoes can inspire your own delicious twists!

Nutty Delight: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and a lovely nutty flavor that complements the sweetness.
Fruity Twist: Toss in raisins or dried cranberries for a burst of sweetness and texture. These added gems will soften as the bread bakes, offering pockets of fruity goodness.
Spice it Up: Introduce a dash of ground ginger or cloves to elevate the flavor profile. The extra spices will warm you from the inside out and make it feel like fall all year round.
Gluten-Free Option: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate gluten sensitivities, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delightful bread.
Maple Sweetness: Instead of granulated sugar, use maple syrup for a deeper, earthy sweetness. This substitution will add a lovely nuance to the overall flavor.
Coconut Flair: Replace some of the granulated sugar with unsweetened shredded coconut for a tropical twist. This will give your bread a wonderful chewiness that’s absolutely irresistible.
Chocolatey Treat: Add chocolate chips into the batter for a decadent version that combines sweet potatoes and chocolate—a match made in dessert heaven!

For further inspiration, check out our recipes like Peanut Sweet Potato and Smashed Potato Salad to enjoy even more delicious sweet potato creations!

How to Store and Freeze Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread

Fridge: Keep your Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread in an airtight container or a ziplock bag in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This helps maintain its moisture and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, slice the bread and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy warm slices, microwave for 15-30 seconds or toast them lightly in a toaster. This helps restore the moist and tender texture of the bread.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, simply remove the desired slices from the freezer and thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a quick treat!

Make Ahead Options

These Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread options are ideal for busy home cooks who want to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prep the batter up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the wet and dry ingredients and store the combined batter in the refrigerator, which helps keep the bread moist and tender. If you’ve got leftover mashed sweet potatoes, they can be refrigerated for up to 3 days before use. When you’re ready to bake, pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, sprinkle on the cinnamon sugar topping, and bake as directed. This way, you can enjoy fresh bread with minimal effort, ensuring it’s just as delightful as if made freshly today!

Expert Tips for Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread

Check Sweet Potato Quality: Use fresh sweet potatoes for the best flavor. Older potatoes may be less sweet and drier.
Avoid Overmixing: Stir the batter just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf rather than the moist texture you desire.
Test for Doneness: Insert a toothpick in the center to ensure it’s baked through. If it comes out clean, your Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread is ready!
Flavor Variations: Feel free to enhance your bread with nuts, raisins, or other spices—get creative and make it your own!
Proper Cooling: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps maintain its structure.

What to Serve with Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread

The delightful aroma of freshly baked bread calls for a meal that complements its warm, cozy notes.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery smoothness of mashed potatoes creates a comforting side that balances the bread’s sweetness.
Maple Glazed Carrots: These sweet, caramelized carrots echo the flavors of the sweet potato and add a pop of color to your meal.
Savory Spinach Salad: A bright salad with fresh spinach, nuts, and a zesty vinaigrette cuts through the density of the bread, offering a refreshing contrast.
Apple Butter: This sweet and spiced spread is perfect for slathering on warm slices, enhancing the flavor experience with its fruity richness.
Cinnamon Coffee: Enjoy this pairing with a comforting cup of coffee brewed with a hint of cinnamon, perfectly harmonizing with the bread’s flavors.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: For a seasonal touch, this creamy, spiced beverage complements the bread’s flavors while adding a festive touch to your breakfast or snack.

Imagine serving these alongside your Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread, creating a complete and heartwarming meal that feels like a cozy hug!

Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe sweet potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for sweet potatoes that are firm and free from dark spots or blemishes. They should be smooth and have a vibrant, consistent color. If you find any wrinkly or soft potatoes, it’s best to avoid them, as they may not provide the right moisture and sweetness for your Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread.

What’s the best way to store Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread?
To keep your Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container or a ziplock bag in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This will help retain its moisture and flavor. If the weather is particularly warm and you find your bread drying out quickly, you can also wrap it in parchment paper before placing it in the container for an extra layer of protection.

Can I freeze Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread?
Very much so! Freezing is a fantastic option if you want to extend the life of your Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread. Slice the loaf and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place all the wrapped slices in an airtight container or freezer bag, and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, just thaw it at room temperature or pop it in the microwave for a quick warm-up!

What should I do if my Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread is dense?
If your Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread turns out denser than expected, it could be due to overmixing the batter. Aim to mix the wet and dry ingredients gently until just combined to preserve that light texture. Also, make sure your baking soda is fresh; old leavening agents can hinder the bread’s rise. Finally, ensure your sweet potatoes are properly mashed—lumps can also contribute to density.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Definitely! If you’re baking for someone with dietary restrictions, sweet potatoes are naturally gluten-free; simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend to make your Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals. Additionally, for a vegan option, you can replace the eggs with flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon of flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water equals one egg) for every egg in the recipe. Just remember to keep an eye out for any nut or dairy allergies if you’re adding variations like walnuts or butter!