A Slice of Home: The Story Behind This Sweet Potato Corn Bread
Growing up, my grandmother’s kitchen was always filled with warmth both from the oven and the love she poured into her food. On cold winter evenings, when the frost kissed the windows and we huddled under quilts, she’d bring out a pan of her famous sweet potato corn bread. Slightly sweet, perfectly moist, and with a subtle spice, it was the one thing that could coax everyone to the dinner table in seconds.
This recipe is my modern take on her classic, blending nostalgia with a touch of culinary refinement. It’s not just bread it’s comfort in every crumb.
Why You’ll Love This Sweet Potato Corn Bread
- Moist and flavorful thanks to mashed sweet potatoes and rich buttermilk.
- Perfectly spiced with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg for a cozy, winter feel.
- Versatile pairs with chili, stews, or even as a breakfast treat with honey or syrup.
- Simple to make, yet so satisfying.
Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a holiday dinner, or simply craving something hearty and heartwarming, this sweet potato corn bread is guaranteed to deliver.
Ingredients for the Best Sweet Potato Corn Bread
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this soul-satisfying bread:
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 cup fine yellow cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup packed light or dark brown sugar
- 4 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Wet Ingredients:
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups whole buttermilk
- 1 cup cooked and mashed sweet potato (about 1 medium-sized sweet potato)
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For Serving:
- Pats of butter
- Honey, or Alaga/sorghum syrup for drizzling
How to Make Sweet Potato Corn Bread Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Prepare Your Sweet Potato Corn Bread Batter
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Grease a 9-inch cast iron skillet or an 8×8-inch baking dish. Place it in the oven while it preheats this creates a beautifully crisp edge to your cornbread.
2: Mix the Ingredients for Perfect Sweet Potato Corn Bread
- In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Set aside and inhale the warm, wintery aroma of the spices.
3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs.
- Add the buttermilk, mashed sweet potato, and melted butter.
- Whisk until fully combined. You want a smooth, creamy mixture.
4: Bring It All Together
- Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients.
- Stir gently with a wooden spoon or spatula just until no dry spots remain. Don’t overmix or it’ll get tough.
5: Bake
- Carefully remove your hot skillet from the oven and pour the batter in. You should hear a slight sizzle (that’s a good sign!).
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick comes out clean from the center.
6: Cool and Serve
- Let the cornbread rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing.
- Serve warm with pats of butter, a drizzle of honey, or syrup of your choice.
Tips for the Best Sweet Potato Corn Bread
- Roast the sweet potato instead of boiling for a richer, caramelized flavor.
- Don’t skip the hot skillet that crispy edge is everything.
- Add chopped pecans or a handful of corn kernels for texture.
- Want a little kick? Stir in some finely chopped jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne.
Pairing Suggestions
This sweet potato corn bread is a natural companion to hearty winter dishes like:
- Slow Cooker Chili : The perfect cozy combo.
- Beef Stew with Root : Vegetables Mop up the rich broth with sweet, spongy bread.
- Greens & Ham Hocks : Southern-style soul food pairing.
Or enjoy it for breakfast with a slather of butter and maple syrup, and a hot cup of coffee. Heaven.
Make Ahead & Storage
Make Ahead:
You can bake this a day in advance. Let it cool, wrap it tightly in foil, and store at room temp.
Storage:
Keep leftovers wrapped in foil or an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing:
Wrap slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 300°F.
Variations to Try
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- Dairy-Free: Swap buttermilk for almond milk with a tablespoon of lemon juice. Use dairy-free butter.
- Savory: Reduce sugar and add crumbled bacon or shredded cheddar.
Nutrition Info (per serving, based on 3 servings):
- Calories: ~430
- Fat: 20g
- Carbs: 55g
- Protein: 9g
- Fiber: 4g
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this recipe without buttermilk?
Yes! If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar with 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
2. How do I keep sweet potato corn bread moist?
The key to keeping it moist is using mashed sweet potatoes, buttermilk, and melted butter. Also, avoid overbaking—check for doneness at 25 minutes to prevent dryness.
3. Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh?
Yes! Just make sure to drain and mash them well. Freshly roasted sweet potatoes provide a richer flavor, but canned sweet potatoes work in a pinch.
4. What’s the best way to store leftover this recipe?
Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week, or freeze for up to 3 months.
5. Can I make this sweet potato corn bread gluten-free?
Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. Make sure to check that your cornmeal is labeled gluten-free as well.
Discover More Comforting Recipes
If you’re a fan of hearty dishes that warm both the heart and the belly, you’re in for a treat. Pair this sweet potato corn bread with our creamy and indulgent Creamy Mushroom Gnocchi: A Comfort Food Masterpiece for the ultimate comfort meal. For a soul-soothing bowl to accompany your bread, try the Tuscan Bean Soup: A Hearty Comfort Dish for Every Occasion. And if you’re looking for dessert ideas to end your meal on a sweet note, don’t miss the Best Citrus Cake Recipe: A Zesty Delight for All Occasions. These recipes, just like our sweet potato corn bread, are all about home, flavor, and heart.
Final Thoughts
There’s something magical about warm, homemade bread on a chilly evening and this sweet potato corn bread brings it all. It’s soulful, simple, and packed with heartwarming flavor. Whether you’re continuing a tradition or starting a new one, this recipe is sure to become a winter staple in your kitchen.