There’s something absolutely magical about pulling a loaf of Spiced Sweet Potato Bread from the oven: a golden, fragrant crown that fills your kitchen with a warm, cozy aroma. This bread is pure comfort, laced with just the right mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger, with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes shining through. It’s perfect for breakfast with a steaming mug of coffee, an afternoon pick-me-up, or even served at brunch for a holiday crowd. You’re about to discover why this classic needs to be in your baking rotation!

Spiced Sweet Potato Bread Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be thrilled at how everyday ingredients transform into something utterly irresistible. Each one brings either flavor, lift, or that signature tender crumb to your Spiced Sweet Potato Bread. Every detail here matters, so don’t skip the little things—each spice and swap is key!

All-purpose flour: The dependable base, building structure without making the loaf dense.
Baking soda: Helps the bread rise for a beautiful, domed top.
Baking powder: Gives it an extra lift for lightness.
Salt: Balances and enhances the sweet and spicy flavors.
Ground cinnamon: The backbone of cozy warmth in each bite.
Ground nutmeg: Adds nutty, aromatic depth.
Ground cloves: Infuses rich, warming notes throughout the bread.
Ground ginger: Brings brightness and zing that cuts through the sweetness.
Mashed cooked sweet potato (about 1 medium): Adds sweetness, color, and keeps the loaf super moist.
Vegetable oil (or melted butter): Makes the crumb extra tender and moist—oil is my go-to, but butter gives rich flavor.
Brown sugar, packed: Deepens the sweetness with subtle caramel notes.
Granulated sugar: Ensures the bread is sweet but balanced, and helps develop that beautiful brown crust.
Large eggs: Bind everything together, giving structure and richness.
Vanilla extract: Adds a fragrant, comforting undertone.
Milk (or buttermilk): Brings the proper amount of moisture and a touch of tang if you use buttermilk.
Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional): Stir in for a little crunch and nutty flavor if you’d like an extra layer of texture.

How to Make Spiced Sweet Potato Bread

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Start with the basics: preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper; this makes for easy release and keeps the bottom extra-soft. Getting your pan right is the first step to a perfectly baked Spiced Sweet Potato Bread!

Step 2: Whisk Together the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger. You want to break up any clumps and make sure the spices are evenly distributed so every slice is packed with flavor.

Step 3: Mix Up the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the mashed sweet potato, oil (or melted butter), brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla, and milk. The mixture should look thick, creamy, and beautifully golden—this is your flavor foundation for Spiced Sweet Potato Bread.

Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Together

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing just until everything is incorporated. Don’t overmix; a few streaks of flour are okay! This helps keep your loaf soft and tender instead of tough or rubbery.

Step 5: Add the Nuts (If You Like)

If you’re using them, now’s the time to stir in your chopped pecans or walnuts. They add wonderful crunch and earthiness that balances out the sweet and spice.

Step 6: Pour and Smooth

Scrape the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. If you want something extra-special, sprinkle a little cinnamon sugar over the top before baking for an irresistible crust.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Slide the pan into the oven and bake for 55 to 65 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean (a few moist crumbs are fine). Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before turning it out onto a wire rack to cool completely—patience pays off here!

How to Serve Spiced Sweet Potato Bread

Garnishes

Dust your slices with a little powdered sugar for sweetness, or drizzle with a vanilla glaze for a bakery-style finish. A pat of butter melting into a warm slice is always a classic, and a handful of toasted nuts on top gives a lovely crunch.

Side Dishes

Think about pairing this Spiced Sweet Potato Bread with tangy Greek yogurt, fresh orange slices, or a warm mug of chai tea. A side of fruit salad or scrambled eggs transforms it into a hearty brunch.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice it into thick slabs and toast lightly, then top with cream cheese and a sprinkle of cinnamon. You can also cut it into cubes for an autumn bread pudding or serve as mini tea sandwiches with a swipe of apple butter. It makes a wonderful edible gift wrapped in parchment and tied with twine!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Spiced Sweet Potato Bread fresh by wrapping it tightly in plastic or foil and storing it at room temperature. It will stay soft for about 3 days, and the flavors even intensify by day two!

Freezing

Cool your loaf completely, then wrap it in plastic wrap followed by foil, or slip it into a freezer bag. It keeps beautifully for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, just thaw at room temperature—perfect for make-ahead holiday baking.

Reheating

Pop individual slices in the toaster or microwave for a few seconds to restore that just-baked warmth. If you prefer, wrap the whole loaf in foil and gently warm it in a low oven before serving.

FAQs

Can I use canned sweet potato puree?

Absolutely! Just be sure it’s pure sweet potato with no added sugar or spices. Canned puree makes this recipe even quicker.

What’s the best way to cook sweet potatoes for this bread?

Roasting brings out the sweet potatoes’ natural sugars and rich color, but boiling works too. Just mash thoroughly and let cool before adding to the batter.

Can I make this Spiced Sweet Potato Bread gluten-free?

Swap the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free baking blend—just make sure it contains xanthan gum. You might need to adjust the baking time slightly, but it works well!

How do I know when the bread is done?

Test with a toothpick in the center: if it comes out clean or with moist crumbs (but no wet batter), you’re good to go. The top should feel springy and set.

Can I leave out the nuts?

Definitely! They’re totally optional and the bread is just as delicious without them. If you love extra texture, try adding dried cranberries or chocolate chips instead.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a loaf that tastes like a cozy hug, it doesn’t get better than Spiced Sweet Potato Bread. Give it a try—your kitchen will smell amazing, and I promise your friends and family will be coming back for seconds! Happy baking!