When autumn arrives, and the crisp air calls for a comforting, cozy treat, few things are better than freshly baked Sweet Potato & Walnut Quick Bread. With its moist texture, fragrant spices, and crunchy walnut bits, this quick bread is the perfect addition to any brunch spread, an afternoon snack, or a thoughtful homemade gift. Whether you enjoy it with a hot cup of coffee or serve it at a festive gathering, this Sweet Potato & Walnut Quick Bread is sure to steal the show.
What is Sweet Potato & Walnut Quick Bread?
Sweet Potato & Walnut Quick Bread is a simple yet delicious baked good made with mashed sweet potato, warm spices, and crunchy walnuts. Unlike traditional yeasted bread, it uses baking powder and baking soda as leavening agents, making it a “quick bread” that doesn’t require rising time. It’s the perfect recipe for beginners or anyone looking to whip up a cozy loaf in less than an hour. The subtle sweetness of the sweet potato pairs perfectly with the richness of walnuts and the warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg, creating a comforting flavor profile that everyone will love.
The Origin of Sweet Potato & Walnut Quick Bread
The origin of quick bread dates back to the 18th century when people began using baking soda and powder to leaven bread instead of yeast. This new method allowed for quicker, more convenient bread-making. As for the combination of sweet potatoes and walnuts, both ingredients have long been staples in many cuisines, particularly in fall and winter dishes. Sweet potatoes, native to Central and South America, have become a popular ingredient in a variety of baked goods, from pies to casseroles to breads. Walnuts, on the other hand, are known for their crunchy texture and earthy flavor, making them the ideal complement to sweet potatoes in this quick bread recipe.
Over time, this recipe has evolved, and today, Sweet Potato & Walnut Quick Bread is a favorite for autumn baking, especially as people embrace the flavors of the season with comfort foods like pumpkin, apples, and squash.
Ingredients for Sweet Potato & Walnut Quick Bread
Here’s everything you need to make this delicious quick bread:
Dry Ingredients:
- 1¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- ½ cup (100g) brown sugar
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup (240g) sweet potato purée (roasted or steamed, mashed)
- 2 large eggs
- ⅓ cup (80ml) vegetable oil or melted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ cup (60ml) warm milk
Add-ins:
- ¾ cup (90g) chopped walnuts
- Optional: ¼ cup dark chocolate chips or raisins
Topping (optional):
- 2 tbsp chopped walnuts
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- ½ tsp cinnamon
Step-by-Step Directions and Preparation Method of Sweet Potato Bread with Walnuts
Step 1: Prep the Sweet Potato
To start, you need to prepare the sweet potatoes. Roast, steam, or boil the sweet potatoes until they’re soft. You can also microwave them for a quicker method. Once cooked, mash or blend them into a smooth purée and let it cool. This is the base for your bread’s moisture and natural sweetness.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Ensure the ingredients are evenly mixed to prevent any clumps of flour or spices in the bread.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the sweet potato purée, eggs, oil or melted butter, vanilla extract, and warm milk together. Mix until the batter is smooth, ensuring the sweet potato is fully incorporated into the wet mixture.
Step 4: Combine the Mixtures
Now, pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until the ingredients are just combined—be careful not to overmix, as this can cause the bread to become dense. Once mixed, fold in the chopped walnuts and any optional add-ins like chocolate chips or raisins for extra flavor.
Step 5: Bake the Bread
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease an 8×4-inch loaf pan and pour the batter into the pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
For an added touch, sprinkle the topping mixture (chopped walnuts, brown sugar, and cinnamon) evenly over the batter. This will create a slightly sweet, crunchy topping that adds extra texture.
Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your bread toward the end of the baking time. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to finish cooling.
Variations of Sweet Potato & Walnut Quick Bread
While this recipe is already amazing as is, you can switch things up to suit your preferences. Here are a few variations to try:
1. Add-in Ideas:
- Dried Fruit: Raisins, cranberries, or chopped dried apricots work beautifully in this recipe, giving the bread a chewy texture.
- Chocolate Chips: Add a touch of sweetness with dark or milk chocolate chips. The rich chocolate pairs perfectly with the sweet potato.
- Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices! You can increase the cinnamon or add a pinch of ground cloves for extra depth of flavor.
2. Swap the Nuts:
- Pecans: If you prefer pecans over walnuts, they can be substituted without any problem. Pecans will give the bread a slightly sweeter, milder taste.
- Almonds: Chopped almonds can provide a nice crunch, too. You could even toast them beforehand for an extra layer of flavor.
3. Dairy-Free Option:
If you want to make this bread dairy-free, substitute the milk with almond milk or coconut milk and the butter with vegetable oil or coconut oil.
4. Make it Vegan:
Replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp flax meal mixed with 3 tbsp water for each egg), and make sure to use a dairy-free milk and oil instead of butter.
5. Make it Gluten-Free:
Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to also add ½ tsp of xanthan gum if it’s not already included in your flour blend.
FAQs About Sweet Potato & Walnut Quick Bread
1. Can I use canned sweet potato purée for this recipe?
Yes! Canned sweet potato purée can be used as a shortcut for making this bread. Just be sure to check the label to ensure there are no added sugars or preservatives.
2. How long does this Sweet Potato & Walnut Quick Bread stay fresh?
The bread can be stored at room temperature for up to 3–4 days in an airtight container. If you want to keep it fresh for longer, refrigerate it for up to 1 week.
3. Can I freeze Sweet Potato & Walnut Quick Bread?
Yes, you can freeze the bread! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil or place it in a freezer-safe bag. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge when ready to eat.
4. What can I serve this quick bread with?
This bread pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. It can also be served as a breakfast item with butter, cream cheese, or jam.
5. Can I use a different type of nut instead of walnuts?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap the walnuts for pecans, almonds, or any other nut you prefer.
6. Can I make this bread without sugar?
You can substitute the sugar with an alternative sweetener like honey, maple syrup, or stevia, but keep in mind that it might slightly change the texture and flavor of the bread.
7. Can I make this bread in a muffin tin instead of a loaf pan?
Yes! If you prefer muffins, simply divide the batter into a greased muffin tin and bake for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
8. Is this recipe easy to make?
Yes, this Sweet Potato & Walnut Quick Bread is super simple to make! It’s beginner-friendly and requires no special skills—just mix, pour, and bake!
Conclusion: Sweet Potato & Walnut Quick Bread
Sweet Potato & Walnut Quick Bread is the ultimate autumn comfort food—moist, flavorful, and textured with crunchy walnuts. Whether you’re baking it for a cozy snack, a festive brunch, or to impress your guests, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. The warm spices and nutty goodness pair perfectly with the sweet potato, making each bite a delightful experience. Try this recipe today, and let the heavenly aroma of freshly baked bread fill your home!
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Sweet Potato & Walnut Quick Bread Recipe: A Cozy, Flavor-Packed Delight for Every Occasion
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (8–10 slices) 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Sweet Potato & Walnut Quick Bread is a simple yet delicious baked good made with mashed sweet potato, warm spices, and crunchy walnuts. Unlike traditional yeasted bread, it uses baking powder and baking soda as leavening agents, making it a “quick bread” that doesn’t require rising time. It’s the perfect recipe for beginners or anyone looking to whip up a cozy loaf in less than an hour. The subtle sweetness of the sweet potato pairs perfectly with the richness of walnuts and the warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg, creating a comforting flavor profile that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 1¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- ½ cup (100g) brown sugar
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup (240g) sweet potato purée (roasted or steamed, mashed)
- 2 large eggs
- ⅓ cup (80ml) vegetable oil or melted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ cup (60ml) warm milk
Add-ins:
- ¾ cup (90g) chopped walnuts
- Optional: ¼ cup dark chocolate chips or raisins
Topping (optional):
- 2 tbsp chopped walnuts
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- ½ tsp cinnamon
Instructions
1. Prep the Sweet Potato
- Roast, steam, or boil sweet potatoes until soft. Mash or blend into a smooth purée. Let cool.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and both sugars.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients
- In another bowl, whisk sweet potato purée, eggs, oil, vanilla, and warm milk until smooth.
4. Combine
- Pour wet mixture into dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined—don’t overmix.
- Fold in chopped walnuts and any optional add-ins.
5. Bake
- Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease an 8×4-inch loaf pan.
- Pour batter into pan and smooth the top.
- Sprinkle with topping mixture if using.
- Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Notes
This hearty quick bread is moist, nutty, and naturally sweetened with the richness of sweet potatoes. Perfect as a breakfast slice, afternoon snack, or even a light dessert, it pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. You can also swap walnuts for pecans or add warm spices like nutmeg and ginger for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Bread / Quick Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx.)
- Calories: ~250 kcal
- Sugar: 14 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: Low
Keywords: Sweet Potato Bread with Walnuts, Walnut Sweet Potato Quick Bread
