Introduction
Sweet potato cinnamon bread is a delicious twist on traditional quick breads, combining the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the warm flavors of cinnamon. This bread is not only comforting but also packed with nutrients, making it a fantastic option for breakfast or an afternoon snack.
Bringing together simple ingredients, this recipe is easy to handle and requires minimal preparation time, perfect for home cooks of all skill levels. Whether slathered in butter or enjoyed plain, this sweet potato cinnamon bread is sure to become a beloved staple in your home.
Ingredients
- 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes
Sweet potatoes provide natural sweetness and moisture, which helps keep the bread tender. Their vibrant color also contributes to the appealing look of the finished product. - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
Sugar helps to sweeten the bread and contributes to the browning of the crust, creating a nice texture. It encourages the yeast to ferment properly, adding flavor. - 1/2 cup brown sugar
Brown sugar adds a deeper, more complex sweetness due to its molasses content. This gives the bread a rich flavor and helps retain moisture. - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Butter introduces richness and a tender crumb to the bread. Melting it ensures that it will incorporate easily into the batter, helping to create a smooth texture. - 2 large eggs
Eggs provide structure to the bread and act as a binding agent, ensuring the other ingredients hold together. They also add moisture, contributing to a rich flavor. - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor profile of the bread, providing a fragrant note that complements the sweetness of the sweet potatoes. - 2 cups all-purpose flour
Flour is the base ingredient that provides structure to the bread. It absorbs moisture and aids in the formation of gluten, helping the bread rise. - 1 teaspoon baking soda
Baking soda acts as a leavening agent, allowing the bread to rise and become fluffy by creating carbon dioxide bubbles during baking. - 1 teaspoon baking powder
Like baking soda, baking powder helps the bread rise, working with the other leavening agents to create a light texture in the final product. - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Cinnamon adds a delightful warmth and aromatic flavor that makes this bread comforting and inviting, enhancing the sweetness of the sweet potatoes. - 1/2 teaspoon salt
Salt balances the flavors and enhances the sweetness of the bread. It is essential for yeast activity and helps create a more developed flavor.
Directions & Preparation
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Preheating the oven is essential to ensure that your bread bakes evenly. An adequately heated oven allows the baking soda and baking powder to activate, creating the necessary rise, so be sure to do this step before preparing the batter.
Step 2: Prepare a loaf pan by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper.
Using cooking spray or parchment paper will help prevent the bread from sticking to the pan. This makes it easier to remove the bread once it's baked, ensuring a clean release and a beautiful presentation.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and melted butter until smooth.
This step combines the wet ingredients, allowing the sweet potatoes to provide moisture and sweetness while distributing the sugars evenly. Mixing well ensures that the sugars dissolve and contributes to a consistent flavor in every bite.
Step 4: Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until well incorporated.
Incorporating the eggs one by one helps maintain a smooth batter, while the vanilla enhances the overall flavor. This ensures that your bread has a rich taste and the structure needed to hold together.
Step 5: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
Whisking the dry ingredients creates an even distribution of the leavening agents and spices throughout the flour. This is crucial for the bread to rise properly and for each slice to have balanced flavor.
Step 6: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the sweet potato mixture, stirring gently until just combined.
Mixing the dry ingredients in gradually prevents overmixing, which can lead to tougher bread. The goal is to achieve a slightly lumpy batter, which indicates that the ingredients are just combined.
Step 7: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Smoothing the top ensures even baking and allows the bread to rise uniformly. This also shapes the final product, making for a more visually appealing loaf.
Step 8: Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Baking times can vary depending on your oven and the moisture content of the sweet potatoes. Checking with a toothpick ensures that the bread is cooked through without being overdone, which could lead to dryness.
Step 9: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
Cooling in the pan helps the bread set slightly, while transferring to a wire rack prevents it from becoming soggy at the base. Proper cooling facilitates slicing and enhances the texture.
Step 10: Slice and enjoy your sweet potato cinnamon bread as is or with your favorite spreads.
This delicious bread can be served warm or at room temperature. Its moist texture pairs beautifully with butter, cream cheese, or simply enjoyed plain, showcasing its rich flavor.
Secrets to Perfectly Mashed Sweet Potatoes
For the best flavor and texture in your bread, use freshly cooked and cooled sweet potatoes. Boiling or steaming ensures they remain soft and easy to mash, and can be flavored subtly with a pinch of salt to elevate their natural sweetness. Avoid using canned sweet potatoes, as they often contain added sugars or preservatives that can alter the taste and moisture balance in your bread.
The Aroma that Fills Your Home
As the sweet potato cinnamon bread bakes, an enticing aroma will fill your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around. This comforting scent is a promise of the warm, spiced flavor about to be enjoyed. The blend of cinnamon with sweet potatoes creates an irresistible ambiance that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also creates a warm and inviting atmosphere perfect for family and friends.
Serving Suggestions for Sweet Potato Cinnamon Bread
This bread is truly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Serve it warm, topped with a pat of butter for a rich treat, or with cream cheese for added tanginess. It also pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea, making it an ideal choice for brunch or afternoon snacks. For a delightful twist, consider toasting slices for extra crunch and texture before serving.
FAQs
Can I use leftover sweet potato casserole instead of plain sweet potatoes?
Yes, as long as it’s not overly sweet or seasoned, leftover sweet potato casserole can add flavor and moisture to the bread, but you may need to adjust the sugar.
What if my bread comes out too dense?
If your bread is dense, it could be due to overmixing the batter or not using fresh leavening agents. Be sure to mix just until combined and check that your baking soda and powder are within their expiration dates.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the batter?
Absolutely! Chopped nuts or chocolate chips can be folded into the batter just before pouring it into the pan for added texture and flavor.
How can I make the bread more spiced?
To boost the spice level, try adding additional ground cinnamon or even incorporating nutmeg or cloves for a more complex flavor profile.
What type of sweet potatoes are best for this recipe?
Use orange-fleshed sweet potatoes for their sweetness and moisture; they also puree smoothly and provide a beautiful color.
Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
Yes, you can reduce the sugar, but keep in mind that it may affect the moisture and sweetness of the bread. Consider substituting with mashed bananas or applesauce for a healthier alternative.
Conclusion
Sweet potato cinnamon bread is a delightful creation that brings warmth and flavor to any table. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it invites everyone to partake in the joy of baking.
Once you try this recipe, you’re likely to find it a favorite, easy to share with friends or enjoy all on your own. Embrace the comfort of home baking with a slice of this delicious bread.
Recipe Card
Moist Chocolate Pumpkin Muffins for Fall Delights
Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, mix the dry ingredients: flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Avoid over-mixing.
- If desired, fold in chocolate chips for extra richness and flavor.
- Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about two-thirds full.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the muffins cool in the pan for 5-10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.
For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.
Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.
