Name: Sweet Potato Pecan Bread Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 2 medium); ½ cup unsalted butter, melted; ¾ cup brown sugar, packed; ¼ cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg; ½ teaspoon ground ginger; ½ cup chopped pecans (plus extra for topping)

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There is nothing quite as cozy and delightful as a freshly baked loaf of Sweet Potato Pecan Bread Recipe. This moist and warmly spiced bread combines the natural sweetness of mashed sweet potatoes with the satisfying crunch of toasted pecans, creating a comforting treat that tastes like autumn wrapped up in every bite. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, serving it at brunch, or snacking on it with your afternoon tea, this bread brings a touch of Southern charm and heartfelt home baking into your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a clear glass bowl placed on a white marbled surface. Inside the bowl, there is a thick, light brown batter filling about three-quarters of the bowl. On the top right side of the batter, there is a generous layer of dark brown pecan nuts, roughly chopped and spread out unevenly, adding texture and color contrast to the smooth batter. The rest of the bowl is filled with the smooth batter surface, which has a slightly lumpy texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Sweet Potato Pecan Bread Recipe lies in using simple, wholesome ingredients that each play a special role, from the creamy texture of sweet potatoes to the aromatic spices and crunchy nuts that make every slice unforgettable.

1 ½ cups mashed sweet potatoes: Provides natural sweetness and moisture, making the bread wonderfully tender.
½ cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and depth of flavor without overpowering the sweet potatoes.
¾ cup brown sugar, packed: Infuses a deep molasses flavor that complements the spices perfectly.
¼ cup granulated sugar: Balances sweetness and helps create a nice crumb.
2 large eggs: Bind the batter together and contribute to the bread’s structure.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the warm flavors for added complexity.
1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour: The base of the bread, helping hold everything just right.
1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the bread rise and stay fluffy.
½ teaspoon baking powder: Provides additional lift for a light texture.
½ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds a classic warming spice that sings alongside sweet potato.
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Offers a hint of earthiness and depth.
½ teaspoon ground ginger: Brings a subtle zing and warmth.
½ cup chopped pecans (plus extra for topping): Deliver a crunchy contrast and nutty richness you’ll love.

How to Make Sweet Potato Pecan Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal. This simple prep sets the stage for a perfectly baked bread with a beautiful shape.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, melted butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk these together until you get a smooth, creamy mixture that promises soft, moist slices.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. This blend of dry ingredients infuses the bread with that signature sweet potato pecan bread flavor—warm, spicy, and inviting.

Step 4: Bring Everything Together

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mix in batches, being careful not to overmix – just until you see no more streaks of flour. Then, stir in the chopped pecans. This step ensures the bread stays light while spreading the pecans evenly.

Step 5: Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Sprinkle extra pecans on top if you like added crunch and presentation flair. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean—a sure sign your bread is perfectly baked.

Step 6: Cool and Enjoy

Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling step helps the flavors settle and the texture firm up just right, making every slice a piece of heaven.

How to Serve Sweet Potato Pecan Bread Recipe

A single thick slice of moist pumpkin bread with bits of nuts visible inside, resting on a white speckled plate. The bread has one layer with a rough crumb texture and a light brown-orange color. The edges of the slice are coated with a thin layer of white icing that drips slightly down the sides, holding small pieces of nuts. Some crumbs and small pieces of bread are scattered around the slice on the plate. In the soft-focus background, there is another slice of the same bread and a glass of milk on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar can add a lovely touch, but you can also spread a thin layer of honey butter or cream cheese frosting to elevate the experience. The subtle sweetness and smoothness will complement the natural flavors without overpowering them.

Side Dishes

Enjoy this bread alongside a cup of strong coffee or a chai latte for a truly soul-warming treat. It also pairs beautifully with soups like butternut squash or creamy tomato bisque for a comforting and complete meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your Sweet Potato Pecan Bread Recipe into a fancy brunch feature by slicing it thick and serving with bowls of spiced yogurt or maple syrup for dipping. Alternatively, you can toast slices lightly and top them with mascarpone and fresh figs, turning simple bread into an elegant delight.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your sweet potato pecan bread stays moist and flavorful when stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to savor it longer, refrigerate for up to one week to maintain freshness without losing texture.

Freezing

Want to keep your bread around for a special occasion? It freezes beautifully. Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to protect against freezer burn. It can keep well for up to three months without compromising taste or texture.

Reheating

To refresh frozen or leftover bread, thaw at room temperature and warm slices in a toaster oven or regular oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 to 15 minutes. This method restores that just-baked feel and brings out the lovely aroma once again.

FAQs

Can I substitute regular potatoes for sweet potatoes in this recipe?

Regular potatoes won’t provide the same natural sweetness or moisture that sweet potatoes bring to this bread, so it’s best to stick with mashed sweet potatoes or try similar options like pumpkin or butternut squash for a close flavor.

Do I need to toast the pecans before adding them?

Toasting pecans first adds a gorgeous nutty depth and crunch to your bread. While it’s not mandatory, toasting is highly recommended for enhancing flavor and texture.

Can I make this bread gluten-free?

Yes! Use a 1-to-1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that includes xanthan gum, and your Sweet Potato Pecan Bread Recipe should still come out moist and delicious.

Is this bread good for freezing in slices?

Absolutely. Slicing before freezing makes it super convenient to toast or warm individual portions without thawing the entire loaf.

What’s the best way to serve it warm?

Simply pop slices into a toaster oven or warm them in a skillet over low heat with a pat of butter for a melty, aromatic treat that tastes like fresh from the oven.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about a homemade Sweet Potato Pecan Bread Recipe that fills your kitchen with warmth and your heart with comfort. This recipe is perfect for anyone at any skill level who wants to create a loaf bursting with flavor and texture that celebrates the best of fall. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and share it with your loved ones!