Sweet Potato Spoon Bread is a classic Southern dish that’s a cross between cornbread & bread pudding, with a light and fluffy texture that is perfect for any occasion!
Sweet potato bread recipe is made with sweet potatoes, cornmeal, eggs, milk, and a touch of sugar. The sweet potatoes give the spoon bread a natural sweetness, while the cornmeal provides a slightly crunchy texture. The eggs and milk help to bind everything together, creating a light and airy texture that is perfect for spooning onto a plate. The dish is typically baked in a casserole dish, and it can be served hot or cold, depending on your preference.
History of Sweet Potato Spoon Bread
Sweet Potato Spoon Bread is a classic Southern dish that has been enjoyed for generations. This dish has a rich history and cultural significance in the South, particularly among African Americans. Spoon Bread became popular in the South during the 19th and 20th centuries. It was a staple dish during holidays and special occasions, such as Thanksgiving and Christmas. The dish was often served as a side dish or dessert.
Today, sweet potato bread is still a beloved dish in the South. It has gained popularity in other parts of the country and is often served at restaurants and special events. It is a dish that has been passed down through generations and continues to be enjoyed by many. Once you give it a try you will know why it’s loved by many, your family will be hooked too!
Recipe Variations for Sweet Potato Bread
- Savory Add-Ins: For those who prefer a more savory version of sweet potato spoon bread, there are a variety of add-ins that can be incorporated into the recipe. Chopped herbs such as rosemary or thyme can add a fragrant and earthy flavor. Crumbled bacon or cooked sausage can add a smoky and meaty taste. Cheddar cheese or Parmesan cheese can be mixed in for a cheesy and creamy texture. Some even like to add a bit of heat with diced jalapenos or red pepper flakes.
- Sweet Enhancements: To enhance the sweetness of sweet potato spoon bread, there are a few ingredients that can be added to the recipe. Brown sugar or maple syrup can be mixed in for a deeper and richer sweetness. Cinnamon or nutmeg can add a warm and cozy flavor. Chopped pecans or walnuts can add a nutty and crunchy texture. Dried fruits such as cranberries or raisins can add a burst of sweetness in each bite.
- Dietary Adjustments: For those with dietary restrictions, sweet potato spoon bread can be adjusted to fit their needs. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour and cornmeal. For a dairy-free version, use non-dairy milk and omit any cheese. For a vegan version, use flax eggs instead of regular eggs and coconut oil instead of butter. For a lower sugar version, reduce the amount of sugar or use a natural sweetener such as honey or agave nectar.
Sweet Potato Spoon Bread Ingredients
Butter: Use 4 TBSP of butter, melted and divided, for a nice rich flavor and texture.
Sweet potatoes: You will need 2 sweet potatoes (about 1 lb total) for the base of this amazing bread recipe.
Milk: Add 2 ½ cups of milk to create the perfect consistency and give it the moisture it needs to stay soft.
Brown sugar: Just 1 TBSP of light brown sugar will sweeten this bread nicely but not overly so.
Salt: To balance all the wonderful flavors in this dish, use 1 tsp of salt.
Pepper: ¼ tsp of ground black pepper will add a nice subtle kick of flavor to this bread.
Cornmeal: You need 1 cup of ground cornmeal (white or yellow) to give this spoon bread a distinct texture and slightly sweet taste as well.
Baking powder: Help the bread rise as it bakes by adding 2 tsp of baking powder.
Eggs: Using 4 eggs, yolks separated from whites, helps bind the ingredients together and adds even more incredible flavor.
How to make Easy Spoon Bread with Sweet Potatoes
Prep
Start by preheating the oven to 400°F. Then, generously grease a 2-quart casserole dish or cast-iron pan with about 1 TBSP of butter; set it aside.
Potato prep
Next, cut the ends from the potatoes and place them on a foil-lined baking sheet. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes, until soft to the touch. Remove the sweet potatoes from the oven and discard foil.
When cool enough to handle, cut the potatoes open and transfer the flesh to a separate bowl, discarding the peels. Proceed to mash the sweet potato using a potato masher or fork.
Also, reduce the oven temperature to 350°F.
Batter
After that, in a large saucepan, bring the milk, brown sugar, salt, and pepper to a low boil over medium heat. In a slow, steady stream, whisk the cornmeal into milk mixture.
Continue to cook, whisking constantly, for 4 to 5 minutes, until the mixture is thick and pulls away from bottom of pan. At that time, remove the pan from the heat and let it cool slightly.
Next, add the mashed potatoes, egg yolks (reserve the egg whites!), remaining 3 TBSP of butter, and baking powder to the cornmeal mixture; stir thoroughly to combine.
Now, in a large mixing bowl, beat the egg whites with electric mixer until soft peaks form.
Then gently fold the egg whites into the potato cornmeal mixture, leaving obvious swirls of egg white (do not mix completely).
Bake
Spoon the batter into the prepared dish and place in the preheated oven to bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until the internal temp reaches 165°. The edges will be firm and the center a bit soft when done.
Remove the bread from the oven and let it stand for 10 minutes or so to cool.
Serve the bread warm, slice or spoon for single servings and enjoy!
Sweet Potato Spoon Bread
Ingredients
- 4 TBSP butter melted (½ a stick)
- 2 sweet potatoes about 1 lb total
- 2½ cups milk
- 1 TBSP light brown sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- ¼ tsp ground black pepper
- 1 cup ground cornmeal white or yellow
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 4 eggs yolks separated from whites
Instructions
- Prep: Preheat oven to 400°F. Generously grease a 2-quart casserole dish or cast iron pan with about 1 TBSP of butter; set aside.
- Potato prep: Cut ends from potatoes and place them on a foil-lined baking sheet. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes, until soft to the touch. Remove from oven; discard foil. When cool enough to handle, cut the potatoes open and transfer the flesh to a separate bowl, discarding the peels. Proceed to mash the sweet potato.
- Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F.
- Batter: In a large saucepan bring milk, brown sugar, salt, and pepper to a low boil over medium heat. In a slow, steady stream, whisk cornmeal into milk mixture. Cook, whisking constantly, for 4 to 5 minutes, until mixture is thick and pulls away from bottom of pan. Remove from heat; cool slightly.
- Add potatoes, egg yolks, remaining 3 TBSP of butter, and baking powder to cornmeal mixture; stir thoroughly to combine.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat egg whites with electric mixer until soft peaks form. Leaving obvious swirls of egg white, gently fold egg whites into the potato cornmeal mixture. Spoon batter into prepared dish.
- Bake: Bake for 35 to 40 until internal temp reaches 165°. Edges will be firm and the center a bit soft. Remove from oven. Let stand for 10 minutes. Serve the bread warm, slice or spoon for single servings and enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition
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Tips for Making Perfect Spoon Bread
To ensure the perfect sweet potato spoon bread, it’s important to follow the recipe instructions carefully. Be sure to measure all ingredients accurately and mix them thoroughly. When baking, keep a close eye on the spoon bread to prevent overcooking. If the top is browning too quickly, cover it with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
Storage and Preservation of Sweet Potato Bread
Sweet potato spoon bread can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the spoon bread in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Is sweet potato spoon bread considered a healthy dish?
Sweet potato spoon bread can be a healthier alternative to traditional cornbread or other baked goods. Sweet potatoes are a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. However, the addition of sugar and butter can increase the calorie count. Moderation is key when enjoying sweet potato spoon bread.
What distinguishes sweet potato spoon bread from regular sweet potato bread?
Sweet potato spoon bread is a moist, pudding-like dish that is made with cornmeal, eggs, and milk. It has a soft, creamy texture that is similar to a soufflé. Regular sweet potato bread is a denser, bread-like baked good that is made with flour, sugar, and baking powder. It has a firmer texture and can be sliced like bread.
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Sweet Potato Spoon Bread is a classic Southern dish that has been enjoyed for generations. This sweet potato bread is a cross between a pudding and cornbread, with a soft and tender texture that everyone is sure to enjoy!
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