Cornbread has always been a staple in many kitchens, offering a comforting bite with its soft, slightly crumbly texture and rich, buttery taste. But when you add sweet potatoes into the mix, you elevate this classic dish into something even more special. This Sweet Potato Cornbread with Cinnamon Honey Butter is moist, flavorful, and just the right balance of sweet and savory.
Whether you’re serving it alongside a bowl of chili, as a side dish for Thanksgiving dinner, or simply enjoying a warm slice with a cup of tea, this cornbread will not disappoint. The addition of sweet potatoes brings a natural sweetness and a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes it even more delicious.
To top it all off, the homemade cinnamon honey butter adds a creamy, spiced sweetness that pairs perfectly with the cornbread. The warm cinnamon and rich honey blend together beautifully with butter to create a spread that you’ll want to put on everything.
If you’ve never tried sweet potato cornbread before, now is the perfect time to bake a batch. It’s easy to make, requires simple ingredients, and is sure to be a new favorite in your home.
Ingredients
For the Cornbread:
- 1 cup mashed sweet potatoes (about 1 medium sweet potato)
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, but highly recommended)
- 2 large eggs
- 3/4 cup milk (whole milk or buttermilk for best results)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Honey Butter:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
How to Make Sweet Potato Cornbread
Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potato
Before starting the cornbread batter, cook your sweet potato. You can bake it in the oven at 400°F until soft (about 45 minutes) or microwave it for 5 to 7 minutes. Once it’s tender, let it cool slightly, then mash it until smooth.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. This step ensures that all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed before adding the wet ingredients.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, then add the mashed sweet potatoes, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix well until everything is fully incorporated.
Step 4: Mix the Batter
Slowly incorporate the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring lightly until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as it may result in a dense texture.
Step 5: Bake the Cornbread
Pour the batter into a greased 9×9-inch baking dish or a cast iron skillet. Smooth the top with a spatula and bake in a preheated 375°F oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Prepare the Cinnamon Honey Butter
While the cornbread is baking, prepare the cinnamon honey butter. In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with honey, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until smooth and creamy.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Let the cornbread cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with a generous spread of cinnamon honey butter.
Helpful Tips
Roast the Sweet Potatoes for Extra Flavor
While microwaving sweet potatoes is a quick option, roasting them enhances their natural sweetness and adds depth to the cornbread’s flavor. Simply bake the sweet potatoes at 400°F for about 45 minutes, then mash them once they’re soft.
Use Buttermilk for a Softer Texture
For an even more tender cornbread, swap regular milk for buttermilk. The acidity in buttermilk helps break down the flour, making the final product lighter and fluffier.
Do Not Overmix the Batter
Overmixing can lead to a dense and tough cornbread. Stir the ingredients just until combined to keep the texture soft and tender.
Bake in a Cast Iron Skillet for Crispy Edges
For those who love crispy edges, baking the cornbread in a preheated cast iron skillet is the way to go. Heat the skillet with a little butter before pouring in the batter, and it will create a delicious golden crust.
Substitutions and Variations
Make It Gluten-Free
Swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend to make this recipe gluten-free without compromising texture.
Reduce the Sugar
If you prefer a less sweet cornbread, reduce the sugar to 2 tablespoons or omit it entirely. The natural sweetness from the sweet potatoes will still provide plenty of flavor.
Add Nuts for Crunch
For added texture, mix in 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts. They complement the flavors of the sweet potato and cinnamon beautifully.
Turn It Into Muffins
Instead of baking in a pan, divide the batter into a muffin tin and bake at 375°F for about 15 to 18 minutes. This is a great option for meal prep or quick, on-the-go breakfasts.
Maple Butter Instead of Honey Butter
For a twist on the cinnamon honey butter, replace the honey with maple syrup. This variation pairs well with fall flavors and adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cornbread ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the cornbread a day in advance and store it at room temperature in an airtight container. When ready to serve, warm it in the oven for a few minutes to restore its texture.
How should I store leftovers?
To store leftover cornbread, place it in an airtight container and keep it at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week.
Wondering if you can freeze sweet potato cornbread?
Absolutely. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will stay fresh in the freezer for up to three months.
What can I serve with sweet potato cornbread?
This cornbread pairs wonderfully with soups, stews, and roasted meats. It’s especially delicious with chili, barbecue dishes, or even as a breakfast option with scrambled eggs.
More Comforting Recipes
If you loved this recipe, here are a few more that you might enjoy:
Sweet potato cornbread with cinnamon honey butter is a dish that brings warmth and comfort with every bite. The soft, moist texture of the cornbread, combined with the creamy, spiced honey butter, creates a perfect balance of flavors. Whether served as a side dish or enjoyed on its own, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. Take the time to bake a batch and share it with family and friends—it’s a dish that brings people together around the table.