Sweet Potato Cornbread

A sweet and rustic Sweet Potato Cornbread is the perfect accompaniment to any savory meal or can be enjoyed as a delightful snack. Its unique blend of sweet potatoes enhances the cornbread’s natural flavors, making it a standout dish at family gatherings or casual dinners. Not only is it easy to prepare, but its moist texture and rich taste ensure it will be a hit with everyone. This cornbread pairs beautifully with chili, soups, or as a standalone treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet potatoes and warm spices creates a comforting taste that elevates traditional cornbread.
• Versatile Dish: Whether served alongside main dishes or enjoyed on its own, this cornbread fits perfectly in any meal setting.
• Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps and readily available ingredients, making this recipe is hassle-free.
• Moist Texture: Sweet potatoes add moisture, resulting in a soft and tender cornbread that everyone will love.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Tools and Preparation

To make your Sweet Potato Cornbread, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly during the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups
• Whisk
• Baking dish (8-inch glass)
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes allows for easy mixing of dry and wet ingredients without confusion.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the right flavor and texture in your cornbread.
• Baking dish: An 8-inch glass baking dish ensures even cooking and allows you to monitor browning easily.

Ingredients

A sweet and rustic cornbread that goes with any savory meal or served as a snack!

Ingredients:
– 1¼ cups yellow cornmeal
– ¾ cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon cinnamon
– ⅛-¼ teaspoon clove
– ⅛-¼ teaspoon nutmeg
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– ¼ cup light brown sugar, packed
– 1 cup cooked sweet potatoes (pureed) ((See note))
– 2 eggs, room temperature
– 1 egg yolk, room temperature
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– ½ cup butter, melted
– ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup buttermilk
– orange food coloring (optional)
– 4 tablespoons butter, melted
– 2 tablespoons light brown sugar, packed
– 2 tablespoon honey
– pinch of salt
– pinch of cinnamon

How to Make Sweet Potato Cornbread

Step 1: Prepare Sweet Potato Puree

• Begin by cooking sweet potatoes until soft.
• Allow them to cool slightly before peeling.
• Puree the cooked sweet potatoes in a blender or food processor until smooth.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400 F. Lightly butter an 8-inch glass baking dish and set it aside.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together:
1. Yellow cornmeal
2. All-purpose flour
3. Baking powder
4. Salt
5. Baking soda
6. Cinnamon
7. Clove
8. Nutmeg
9. Granulated sugar
10. Brown sugar

Set this mixture aside for later use.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another large bowl, combine:
1. Pureed sweet potatoes
2. Eggs (both whole egg and yolk)
3. Melted butter
4. Vegetable oil
5. Vanilla extract
6. Buttermilk

If desired, add orange food coloring at this stage.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients while stirring just until combined. Be careful not to over stir; this will keep your cornbread light and fluffy.

Step 6: Bake the Cornbread

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and bake on the middle rack for 20 minutes. After this time, tent it with foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes or until the center is fully set.

Step 7: Prepare Glaze

While the cornbread bakes, stir together all glaze ingredients in a small bowl while they are still hot from melting.

Step 8: Glaze & Serve

Once out of the oven, brush the glaze generously over the hot cornbread several times until well coated (you may not need all of it). Now it’s ready to serve! Enjoy your delicious Sweet Potato Cornbread warm!

How to Serve Sweet Potato Cornbread

Sweet Potato Cornbread is a delightful dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of meals. Whether served as a side or enjoyed on its own, there are many ways to enjoy this rustic bread.

With Savory Dishes

• Chili: The sweetness of the cornbread complements the spiciness of chili, making it a perfect match.
• Grilled Meats: Serve alongside grilled chicken or pork for a hearty meal.
• Soups: Pair with your favorite soup, such as butternut squash or vegetable soup, for a cozy dinner.

As a Snack

• With Butter: Spread some butter on warm slices for a simple yet satisfying treat.
• Honey Drizzle: A drizzle of honey adds an extra touch of sweetness and makes for a delicious snack option.
• Cheese Platter: Include slices of Sweet Potato Cornbread in a cheese platter for an interesting twist.

How to Perfect Sweet Potato Cornbread

To make your Sweet Potato Cornbread truly stand out, consider these helpful tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh to achieve the best rise.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined to keep your cornbread light and fluffy; overmixing can lead to dense bread.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Using eggs and buttermilk at room temperature helps create a smoother batter and better texture.
• Check Doneness Early: Ovens vary; check your cornbread a few minutes early to avoid overbaking.
• Add Extras: For added flavor, consider incorporating jalapeños or cheese into the batter before baking.

Best Side Dishes for Sweet Potato Cornbread

Sweet Potato Cornbread complements various side dishes. Here are some great options that will elevate your meal.

1. Collard Greens: These savory greens bring a classic Southern touch and balance the sweetness of the cornbread.
2. Fried Chicken: Crispy fried chicken is always a favorite; serve with cornbread for an irresistible combination.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables adds color and nutrition to your plate.
4. Baked Beans: The rich flavors of baked beans pair wonderfully with the sweet notes in the cornbread.
5. Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese provides comfort, and its richness complements the cornbread’s texture.
6. Corn Chowder: This hearty soup enhances the corn flavor while providing warmth on chilly days.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Sweet Potato Cornbread, it’s easy to overlook some important steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Using cold ingredients: Ensure your eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature for better mixing and a fluffier texture.
• Overmixing the batter: Gently combine wet and dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to dense cornbread instead of light and fluffy.
• Neglecting to preheat the oven: Always preheat your oven before baking. This helps achieve the perfect rise and texture.
• Skipping the glaze: The glaze adds a delightful sweetness and shine. Don’t skip this step for the best flavor experience.
• Not measuring accurately: Use standard measuring cups for dry and wet ingredients. Accurate measurements are key to consistent results.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Keep Sweet Potato Cornbread in an airtight container.
• It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Sweet Potato Cornbread

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Sweet Potato Cornbread

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place cornbread on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 20-30 seconds.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Sweet Potato Cornbread that might help enhance your cooking experience.

Can I use fresh sweet potatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh sweet potatoes. Just cook and puree them before adding them to the batter.

How do I know when my Sweet Potato Cornbread is done?

The cornbread is done when it’s golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Can I add other ingredients to my Sweet Potato Cornbread?

Absolutely! You can mix in cheese, jalapeños, or herbs for extra flavor.

What should I serve with Sweet Potato Cornbread?

This cornbread pairs well with soups, stews, or even as a side for grilled meats.

Final Thoughts

Sweet Potato Cornbread is not only delicious but also versatile. It complements savory dishes beautifully or can be enjoyed as a snack on its own. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite herbs or spices for a personal touch. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!