If you’re looking for the perfect Southern cornbread, one that’s moist, slightly sweet, and packed with rich flavor, sweet potato cornbread is the answer. It’s got everything you love about classic cornbread but with the bonus of mashed sweet potatoes for extra softness and a hint of natural sweetness.
Whether you’re serving it as a side for chili, collard greens, or just slathering it with butter and honey, this cornbread is a must-have recipe. Plus, it’s great for the holidays, perfect for Thanksgiving, and just as comforting on a regular weeknight.
Why You’ll Love This Sweet Potato Cornbread Recipe
✅ Super Moist & Fluffy: The addition of mashed sweet potatoes and buttermilk keeps it incredibly soft and tender.
✅ Perfectly Balanced Flavor: A touch of cinnamon and nutmeg complements the natural sweetness.
✅ Great for Any Occasion: Whether you’re making it for Thanksgiving dinner or a casual weeknight meal, it’s always a hit.
✅ Versatile & Customizable: You can make it gluten-free, dairy-free, or even turn it into muffins.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This easy cornbread recipe uses pantry staples and a few extra ingredients to give it the best flavor and texture.
Main Ingredients
🥣 Yellow cornmeal – Gives the cornbread its traditional texture.
🥣 All-purpose flour – Adds structure and softness.
🥣 Baking powder – Ensures a light and fluffy texture.
🥣 Mashed sweet potatoes – The secret ingredient for moisture and flavor.
🥣 Brown sugar – Adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness.
🥣 Cinnamon & nutmeg – Warms up the flavor and makes it extra cozy.
🥣 Salt & butter – Enhances the flavor and richness.
🥣 Eggs – Helps bind everything together.
🥣 Buttermilk – Makes the cornbread extra soft and tender.
Optional Add-Ins & Substitutions
🍯 For Extra Sweetness: Drizzle with a honey glaze or add maple syrup.
🌱 Dairy-Free Option: Swap buttermilk for almond or coconut milk with vinegar.
🌾 Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
How to Prepare Sweet Potatoes for Cornbread (Detailed Guide)
The key to achieving moist and flavorful sweet potato cornbread is preparing the sweet potatoes the right way. The smoother and creamier the mashed sweet potatoes, the better your cornbread will turn out. Below, I’ll walk you through three foolproof methods for cooking sweet potatoes, including boiling, roasting, and microwaving.
Each method has its own advantages depending on how much time you have and the depth of flavor you want. Let’s break it down!
1. Boiling Method (Quick & Easy)
🔥 Best for: Speed and convenience
Boiling is the fastest and easiest way to prepare mashed sweet potatoes. If you’re in a hurry and want smooth, creamy sweet potatoes, this method is perfect.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Peel & Chop: Peel 2 medium sweet potatoes and chop them into small cubes (about 1-inch).
- Boil Water: Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil.
- Cook Until Fork-Tender: Add the sweet potato cubes to the boiling water and cook for 15 minutes or until they’re easily pierced with a fork.
- Drain & Mash: Drain the potatoes, then use a potato masher or fork to mash them until smooth.
Pro Tips:
✔️ If you want extra creamy mashed sweet potatoes, use a hand mixer or blender.
✔️ Add a splash of buttermilk or melted butter while mashing for even more flavor.
2. Roasting Method (Best Flavor)
🔥 Best for: Deep, caramelized sweetness
Roasting sweet potatoes brings out their natural sweetness and adds a rich, caramelized flavor to the cornbread. This method takes longer than boiling, but it’s worth it if you want that deep, roasted taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Wash 2 whole sweet potatoes, then pierce them several times with a fork.
- Wrap in Foil (Optional): Wrapping them in foil helps retain moisture.
- Bake Until Soft: Place them on a baking sheet and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until they’re fork-tender.
- Scoop & Mash: Let them cool slightly, then cut them open and scoop out the soft flesh. Mash until smooth.
Pro Tips:
✔️ Roasted sweet potatoes have a naturally richer flavor—you may need less sugar in your cornbread.
✔️ For extra depth, sprinkle a bit of cinnamon or nutmeg on the potatoes before roasting.
3. Microwave Method (Fastest Option)
🔥 Best for: Saving time
If you’re in a time crunch, the microwave is the fastest way to cook sweet potatoes. This method works great when you only need one or two sweet potatoes for your cornbread.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Wash & Pierce: Wash 1-2 sweet potatoes and poke several holes with a fork.
- Microwave on High: Place them on a microwave-safe plate and cook on high for 5-7 minutes. Flip them halfway through for even cooking.
- Check for Softness: The potatoes are done when a fork slides in easily. If they’re still firm, microwave for 1-2 more minutes.
- Scoop & Mash: Let them cool slightly, then slice open and scoop out the flesh. Mash until smooth.
Pro Tips:
✔️ If the sweet potatoes feel dry, mix in a teaspoon of butter or honey before mashing.
✔️ Microwaved sweet potatoes tend to be softer but not as sweet as roasted ones, so adjust sugar in your cornbread accordingly.
Best Method for Sweet Potato Cornbread?
| Method | Time Required | Flavor | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boiling | 15-20 minutes | Mild, neutral | Fast preparation |
| Roasting | 45-50 minutes | Deep, caramelized | Maximum flavor |
| Microwave | 5-7 minutes | Slightly sweet | Quickest option |
Each method works, but if you have time, roasting is the best option for bringing out the most flavor. If you’re in a hurry, boiling or microwaving will still give you great results.
Step-by-Step Sweet Potato Cornbread Recipe
1. Prep the Oven & Baking Pan
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or a cast iron skillet (for crispy edges).
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together:
✅ 1 cup yellow cornmeal
✅ 1 cup all-purpose flour
✅ 1 tbsp baking powder
✅ ½ tsp salt
✅ ½ tsp cinnamon
✅ ¼ tsp nutmeg
3. Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix:
✅ 1 cup mashed sweet potatoes
✅ ½ cup brown sugar
✅ 2 eggs
✅ ½ cup melted butter
✅ 1 cup buttermilk
4. Mix Everything Together
- Slowly fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients.
- Stir just until combined—do not overmix, or the cornbread will be dense instead of fluffy.
5. Bake to Perfection
- Pour the batter into your prepared pan.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes (or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean).
- Cover with foil halfway through to prevent over-browning.
6. Optional Honey Glaze (Highly Recommended!)
To take your sweet potato cornbread to the next level, brush it with a honey glaze while it’s still warm:
✅ 2 tbsp melted butter
✅ 2 tbsp honey
✅ 1 tbsp brown sugar
This gives it a beautiful shine, extra moisture, and a touch of sweetness.
Serving Suggestions: What Goes Well with Sweet Potato Cornbread?
Sweet potato cornbread is delicious on its own, but it truly shines when paired with savory mains, hearty sides, or even sweet toppings. Whether you’re serving it for Thanksgiving, a Southern-style meal, or just a cozy family dinner, here are the best ways to enjoy it.
1. Classic Southern Pairings 🍗🥬
For a true Southern meal, serve your sweet potato cornbread with these traditional dishes:
✅ Chili & Stews 🥘 – The mild sweetness of the cornbread balances out spicy, savory chili. Try it with a beef or turkey chili, or even a vegetarian chili.
✅ Fried or Baked Chicken 🍗 – A golden, crispy fried chicken with a slice of cornbread? It doesn’t get better than that!
✅ Collard Greens 🥬 – Cornbread soaks up the delicious juices from slow-cooked collard greens with smoked turkey or bacon.
✅ BBQ Ribs or Pulled Pork 🍖 – The rich, smoky flavors of BBQ go perfectly with cornbread’s slightly sweet, buttery taste.
✅ Gumbo & Southern Soups 🍲 – A slice of cornbread on the side of a hearty gumbo or creamy soup makes for a complete meal.
2. Sweet Toppings for a Dessert Twist 🍯🍓
Want to turn your sweet potato cornbread into a sweet treat? Here are some toppings and spreads to make it even better:
🍯 Honey Butter – Mix softened butter with honey and a pinch of cinnamon for a creamy, dreamy topping.
🍁 Maple Syrup Drizzle – Warm maple syrup adds a caramel-like richness that melts into the cornbread.
🍓 Fresh Berries & Whipped Cream – Top with sliced strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a light and refreshing dessert.
🍨 Vanilla Ice Cream – Warm cornbread + a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream = heaven!
🍫 Chocolate Spread or Nutella – A rich, chocolatey spread takes this cornbread from comfort food to indulgence.
3. Breakfast Ideas ☕🍳
Leftover sweet potato cornbread is amazing for breakfast! Here’s how to start your day right:
🥓 Cornbread & Eggs – Pair it with scrambled eggs and crispy bacon for a hearty morning meal.
🍶 Yogurt & Nuts – Crumble cornbread over Greek yogurt with walnuts and honey for a protein-packed breakfast.
🥞 Cornbread French Toast – Slice the cornbread, dip it in an egg and milk mixture, and fry it like French toast!
☕ Coffee & Butter – A simple slice with butter and a hot cup of coffee is the perfect way to enjoy leftovers.
4. Holiday & Special Occasion Serving Ideas 🍽️
Since sweet potato cornbread is a great holiday side dish, here are ways to make it even more festive:
🎄 Thanksgiving Dinner – Serve it with roast turkey, gravy, stuffing, and cranberry sauce for a Southern-inspired Thanksgiving spread.
🎉 Christmas Feast – Pair it with honey-glazed ham and roasted sweet potatoes for an unforgettable holiday meal.
🥂 Potluck Favorite – Bring a warm skillet of cornbread to a family gathering or potluck—it’s guaranteed to be a hit!
5. How to Serve Sweet Potato Cornbread at Its Best 🍞
No matter how you serve it, here are some final tips to make sure your cornbread is always at its best:
✅ Warm it up before serving – Cornbread tastes best when slightly warm. You can microwave a slice for 15-20 seconds or warm it in the oven at 300°F for 5 minutes.
✅ Use a cast iron skillet for crispy edges – If you love crunchy edges, bake it in a cast iron skillet.
✅ Brush with butter before serving – A light butter glaze keeps it moist and flavorful.
✅ Pair with both sweet and savory flavors – This cornbread is versatile, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and toppings!
Final Thoughts: The Perfect Side for Any Occasion
Whether you’re enjoying it with chili, topped with honey butter, or as part of a holiday meal, sweet potato cornbread is one of the most versatile and delicious dishes you can make.
Now that you’ve got all these serving ideas, how will you enjoy your sweet potato cornbread? Let me know in the comments! ⬇️ 🍞🔥
Storage & Reheating Tips
To keep your sweet potato cornbread fresh:
✅ Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
✅ Refrigerator: Wrap tightly and store for up to 5 days.
✅ Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months (wrapped in plastic wrap and foil).
How to Reheat Without Drying It Out
🔥 Microwave: Wrap in a damp paper towel and heat for 20-30 seconds.
🔥 Oven: Warm at 300°F for 10 minutes.
🔥 Air Fryer: Heat at 325°F for 5 minutes (for crispy edges).
Recipe Variations & Customizations
One of the best things about sweet potato cornbread is how versatile it is. Whether you like it sweeter, heartier, or even a little spicy, there are plenty of ways to customize it.
1. Make It Gluten-Free 🌾
- Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour.
- Double-check that your cornmeal is labeled gluten-free, as some brands process it with wheat.
2. Dairy-Free & Vegan Option 🥛
- Use almond milk or coconut milk instead of buttermilk.
- Swap butter for coconut oil or vegan butter.
- For a vegan version, replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water per egg).
3. Make It Extra Sweet & Dessert-Like 🍯
- Increase the brown sugar to ¾ cup for a richer sweetness.
- Add ½ cup honey or maple syrup to the batter.
- Sprinkle a cinnamon-sugar mixture on top before baking.
4. Turn It into Muffins 🧁
- Use the same batter, but pour it into a lined muffin tin.
- Reduce the baking time to 15-18 minutes at 375°F.
- Great for grab-and-go breakfasts or snacking!
5. Give It a Savory Twist 🌶️
- Reduce the brown sugar to ¼ cup for less sweetness.
- Add ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese for a cheesy version.
- Stir in chopped jalapeños or crispy bacon bits for a bold kick.
With all these variations, you can switch things up and never get bored of making sweet potato cornbread!
More Recipes You’ll Love
To make your meal even more delicious, here are some must-try recipes that go perfectly with sweet potato cornbread!
🔥 Try these fluffy mashed potato muffins for another delicious baked side dish!
🧄 If you love creamy textures, this cheesy garlic mashed potatoes recipe is a must-try!
🍞 For a sweeter baked treat, this cranberry and pistachio bread pairs perfectly with coffee or tea.
🥕 Pair your cornbread with crockpot glazed carrots for a balanced, wholesome meal.
🎃 Looking for another nutritious and sweet bake? These pumpkin protein muffins are a healthy option.
Now you’ve got a full menu of sides and treats to serve with your cornbread. Mix and match to create the perfect comfort food feast!
Final Thoughts on Sweet Potato Cornbread
At this point, you’ve got all the tools you need to make the best sweet potato cornbread ever! Whether you like it sweet or savory, baked in a skillet or a muffin tin, this cornbread is sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.
Let’s do a quick recap:
✅ Sweet potato cornbread is soft, moist, and packed with flavor.
✅ It’s easy to make, with simple pantry ingredients.
✅ You can tweak it to be gluten-free, dairy-free, or extra sweet.
✅ It pairs perfectly with chili, fried chicken, and collard greens.
✅ Leftovers store well and can be reheated without drying out.
So, now it’s your turn! Go ahead, grab those sweet potatoes, and start baking. And don’t forget to share your results—I’d love to hear how your sweet potato cornbread turned out!
Would you make yours sweet or savory? Let me know in the comments! ⬇️😊
📌 Don’t Forget to Save This Recipe!
If you love sweet potato cornbread, be sure to bookmark this page or pin it to your favorite recipe board. That way, you’ll have it ready whenever a craving hits!