Sweet Potato Cornbread offers a delicious twist on the classic Southern cornbread. The natural sweetness of the sweet potato pairs harmoniously with the hearty, grainy texture of cornmeal. This recipe results in a moist, fluffy, and slightly sweet cornbread that makes an ideal side dish for any meal. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday gathering or as an everyday treat, this cornbread will stand out for its delightful flavor and unique texture.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional for added warmth)
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional for extra flavor)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or an 8×8-inch square pan.
- Begin by boiling the sweet potato cubes in a small pot with water. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until tender. Drain and mash the sweet potato until smooth. Set aside to cool.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using).
- In another bowl, beat the eggs until well combined. Add the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract to the eggs and mix until smooth.
- Stir in the mashed sweet potato and blend everything together until the batter is smooth.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cornbread dense.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cornbread cool for a few minutes before cutting it into squares.
- Serve warm with a dollop of butter or drizzle of honey for extra flavor.
Sweet Potato Cornbread is a wonderful variation of traditional cornbread, combining the creamy sweetness of the potato with the rustic, savory taste of cornmeal. Its rich texture makes it an ideal complement to dishes such as chili, roasted meats, or greens. Perfect for both casual and special occasions, this cornbread will quickly become a favorite in your household.