Easy Sweet Potato Cornbread Recipe for a Crowd-Pleasing Treat

Cornbread is a classic comfort food that’s been a staple in Southern kitchens for generations, but have you ever tried adding sweet potatoes to the mix? This sweet potato cornbread recipe elevates the beloved dish with a subtle sweetness and a moist, tender crumb that’s perfect for any occasion.

Combining the earthy sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the hearty texture of cornmeal, this recipe strikes a beautiful balance between sweet and savory. It’s an incredibly versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with everything from spicy chili to a drizzle of honey butter. Whether you’re serving it as a side at a holiday feast or enjoying it as a snack, this cornbread is sure to become a favorite.

What sets this recipe apart is its rich flavor and texture, thanks to the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes and the added moisture they provide. It’s easy to make, adaptable to dietary needs, and guaranteed to impress. Get ready to enjoy cornbread like never before!

Why This Recipe Works

1. Moist and Tender Texture: Sweet potatoes bring natural moisture to the batter, ensuring every bite is soft and tender.
2. Subtle Sweetness: The natural sugars in sweet potatoes add just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering the cornbread’s savory elements.
3. Nutrient-Packed: Sweet potatoes are loaded with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, making this a healthier twist on traditional cornbread.
4. Versatility: Enjoy it as a side dish, a snack, or even as a lightly sweet dessert with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of maple syrup.
5. Customizable: Add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a sweeter version, or jalapeños and cheese for a savory kick.
6. Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible even for beginner bakers.
7. Crowd-Pleaser: Its rich flavor and moist texture make it a hit at potlucks, holiday dinners, or family gatherings.
8. Great for Leftovers: Sweet potato cornbread reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or enjoying over several days.

Ingredients Breakdown

Core Ingredients

• 1 cup mashed sweet potato (from 1 medium sweet potato)
  Adds natural sweetness, moisture, and a vibrant color to the cornbread.
• 1 cup yellow cornmeal
  Provides the signature texture and hearty flavor of classic cornbread.
• 1 cup all purpose flour
  Balances the cornmeal for a tender crumb; use gluten free flour if needed.
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
  Enhances the natural sweetness of the sweet potato. Adjust to taste or omit for a savory version.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
  Helps the cornbread rise, and it gives a light, fluffy texture.
• ½ teaspoon salt
  Balances the sweetness and makes the overall flavor better.

Wet Ingredients

• 2 large eggs
  Acts as a binder, giving structure and moisture.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  Adds richness and ensures a moist texture; use coconut oil for a dairy free option.
• 1 cup buttermilk
  Keeps the cornbread tender and moist while adding a subtle tang. Use plant based milk with a teaspoon of vinegar for a dairy-free alternative.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
  Enhances the sweetness and rounds out the flavor.

Optional Add-Ins

• ½ tea spoon ground cinnamon or nutmeg
  Adds warmth for a sweeter, dessert-like cornbread.
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
  For a savory twist, add sharp or mild cheddar.
• 1 small jalapeño, finely chopped
  Gives a spicy kick, perfect for pairing with chili.

Pro Tips for Success

1. Roast the Sweet Potato for Maximum Flavor: Baking the sweet potato enhances its natural sweetness and gives the cornbread a richer flavor. If you’re short on time, microwaving works, but roasting is worth the extra effort.
2. Don’t Overmix: Stir the batter just until combined to avoid overdeveloping the gluten in the flour, which can make the cornbread dense.
3. Use a Cast Iron Skillet: For crispy edges and even cooking, bake the cornbread in a preheated cast-iron skillet. Grease it generously to prevent sticking.
4. Room Temperature Ingredients: Bring eggs and buttermilk to room temperature before mixing for a smoother batter and better rise.
5. Customize Sweetness: Adjust the sugar to your liking. For a more savory cornbread, reduce or omit the sugar and add a pinch more salt.
6. Make It Gluten Free: Substitute all purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten free flour blend to keep the texture light and fluffy.
7. Test for Doneness: Insert a toothpick or knife into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready.
8. Storage Tip: Wrap leftovers in foil or store in an airtight container to keep the cornbread moist. Reheat in the oven or microwave to refresh the texture.

Variants of the Sweet Potato Cornbread Recipe

1. Savory Sweet Potato Cornbread
   Skip the sugar and add shredded cheddar cheese, chopped jalapeños, and a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a savory twist.
2. Spiced Sweet Potato Cornbread
   Add ½ teaspoon each of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger for a warm, spiced flavor. Serve with a drizzle of maple syrup for a cozy treat.
3. Vegan Sweet Potato Cornbread
   Replace eggs with flaxseed eggs (1 table spoon ground flaxseed + 3 table spoons water per egg). Use plant-based milk with a teaspoon of vinegar instead of buttermilk, and swap butter with coconut oil.
4. Sweet Potato Honey Cornbread
   Replace granulated sugar with ¼ cup honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetener and a hint of floral flavor.
5. Cornbread Muffins
   Divide the batter into a greased or lined muffin tin. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes for perfectly portioned, portable cornbread.
6. Sweet Potato Cornbread Stuffing
   Bake the cornbread a day ahead, crumble it, and use it as a base for a sweet and savory stuffing with sausage, celery, and fresh herbs.

Serving Suggestions

1. With Butter and Honey: A classic combination that enhances the natural sweetness of the cornbread. Serve warm for the best experience.
2. As a Side Dish: Pair with hearty stews, soups, or chili for a complete and satisfying meal. Sweet potato cornbread’s subtle sweetness complements spicy and savory dishes beautifully.
3. Topped with Maple Syrup: Drizzle warm cornbread with maple syrup for a breakfast or dessert option.
4. Crumble Over Salads: Add texture and flavor to green salads or grain bowls by crumbling leftover cornbread on top.
5. With Fried Chicken: A Southern-inspired pairing that’s perfect for gatherings or Sunday dinners.
6. With Fresh Fruits: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries for a light dessert option.
7. As a Snack: Enjoy it plain or with a smear of almond butter or cream cheese for an afternoon pick-me-up.
8. Holiday Pairing: Serve alongside roasted turkey or ham during holiday meals for a crowd-pleasing side dish.

Creative Uses for Sweet Potato Cornbread

1. Cornbread Croutons
   Cube leftover cornbread and bake at 375°F (190°C) until golden and crispy, then, use as croutons for salads or soups.
2. Cornbread Pancakes
   Crumble leftover cornbread into a pancake batter for a fun breakfast twist.
3. Cornbread Casserole Topping
   Use crumbled cornbread as a topping for casseroles or baked mac and cheese for a crunchy, flavorful layer.
4. Sweet Potato Cornbread Parfait
   Layer crumbled cornbread with yogurt and fresh berries for a unique breakfast or dessert parfait.
5. Cornbread Fritters
   Mix crumbled cornbread with an egg, shredded cheese, and spices then, fry in a skillet for savory fritters.

Recipe Card

Sweet Potato Cornbread Recipe

Recipe by SoukaynaCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

8

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

30

minutes

Calories

260

kcal

This sweet potato cornbread recipe takes the classic Southern dish to new heights with the natural sweetness and moisture of roasted sweet potatoes. Perfect as a side dish, snack, or even dessert!

Ingredients

• 1 cup mashed sweet potato (from 1 medium sweet potato)

• 1 cup yellow cornmeal

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• ⅓ cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)

• 1 tablespoon baking powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 2 large eggs

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

• 1 cup buttermilk

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

• Optional Add-Ins:

• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon or nutmeg

• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (for savory variation)

• 1 small jalapeño, finely chopped

Directions

• Prepare Sweet Potato:
  Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and pierce the sweet potato with a fork. Bake for 45-60 minutes or microwave for 5-8 minutes until soft. Let cool, then peel and mash until smooth.
• Preheat Oven and Pan:
  Lower oven temperature to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch cast-iron skillet, baking dish, or 8×8-inch square pan with butter or nonstick spray.
• Mix Dry Ingredients:
  In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon or nutmeg (if using).
• Combine Wet Ingredients:
  In a separate bowl, whisk mashed sweet potato, eggs, melted butter, buttermilk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
• Mix the Batter:
  Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula until just combined. Do not overmix.
• Bake:
  Pour the batter into the prepared skillet or pan. Smooth the top and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Cool and Serve:
  Let the cornbread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with butter, honey, or your favorite toppings.

Notes

• For a dairy-free version, substitute buttermilk with plant-based milk and a teaspoon of vinegar, and use coconut oil instead of butter.
• This cornbread is freezer-friendly; slice and wrap individual pieces for easy storage.

FAQs About Sweet Potato Cornbread Recipe

This sweet potato cornbread recipe masterfully combines the earthy sweetness of sweet potatoes with the hearty texture of cornbread, creating a dish that’s both comforting and versatile. Moreover, whether you serve it as a side dish alongside chili, enjoy it as a snack topped with honey butter, or include it as part of a festive holiday meal, it’s sure to leave a lasting impression.

Have you tried this recipe? Let us know your favorite twists in the comments below, and tag us on social media to share your creations! Looking for more inspiration? Check out our Milk Bar Pumpkin Pie.