There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread filling your kitchen.
This Gluten-Free Sweet Potato Bread is not just delicious but also packed with wholesome ingredients that make it a healthier alternative to traditional quick breads.
Made with naturally sweet mashed sweet potatoes, warm spices, and a tender crumb, this bread is perfect for breakfast, a midday snack, or even a light dessert.
Whether you’re gluten-sensitive or simply looking for a nutritious homemade treat, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your baking rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Gluten-Free Sweet Potato Bread
1. Moist, Tender, and Naturally Sweet
Sweet potatoes add natural sweetness and moisture, resulting in a soft and flavorful loaf without needing excessive sugar.
2. 100% Gluten-Free and Easy to Make
This recipe uses a high-quality gluten-free flour blend, making it perfect for those with gluten sensitivities while keeping the texture light and fluffy.
3. Packed with Nutrients
Sweet potatoes are rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making this bread a more nutritious option compared to refined flour-based loaves.
4. Perfect for Meal Prep and Freezing
Bake a loaf ahead of time, slice it up, and store it for a quick, grab-and-go snack throughout the week. It also freezes beautifully!
Ingredients for Gluten-Free Sweet Potato Bread
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup mashed sweet potatoes (roasted or canned, smooth and lump-free)
- 2 large eggs (or flax eggs for a vegan option)
- ⅓ cup coconut oil (melted, or substitute with butter)
- ½ cup maple syrup or honey (for natural sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for depth of flavor)
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups gluten-free flour blend (with xanthan gum for structure)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder (to help the bread rise)
- ½ teaspoon baking soda (for extra lift)
- ½ teaspoon salt (to balance flavors)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (warm and aromatic)
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (adds a hint of spice)
Optional Add-Ins:
- ½ cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts for crunch)
- ¼ cup dark chocolate chips (for a touch of sweetness)
- ¼ cup dried cranberries or raisins (for added texture and flavor)
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Perfect Sweet Potato Bread
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Before you start, roast or steam your sweet potatoes until soft, then mash them until smooth. If using canned sweet potatoes, ensure they are unsweetened and well-drained.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mashed sweet potatoes, eggs, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the gluten-free flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This helps distribute the leavening agents evenly for a better rise.
Step 4: Mix Everything Together
Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined—overmixing can result in a dense bread. If using add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips, fold them in at this stage.
Step 5: Transfer to the Loaf Pan & Bake
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice and enjoy on its own, with a spread of nut butter, or a drizzle of honey!
This Gluten-Free Sweet Potato Bread is a perfect blend of flavor, texture, and nutrition. It’s easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and will surely become a household favorite. Stay tuned for more baking tips and variations!
Tips for the Best Gluten-Free Sweet Potato Bread
Making the perfect Gluten-Free Sweet Potato Bread requires a few key techniques to ensure a moist, flavorful, and well-risen loaf. Here are some essential tips to help you achieve the best results every time.
1. Use a High-Quality Gluten-Free Flour Blend
Not all gluten-free flours are created equal. A blend that includes xanthan gum or guar gum will provide structure and elasticity, mimicking the texture of traditional wheat flour. If your flour blend doesn’t contain it, add ½ teaspoon of xanthan gum to the dry ingredients.
2. Measure Ingredients Accurately
Gluten-free baking is more sensitive to ingredient ratios. Use the spoon-and-level method when measuring flour to avoid packing too much into the cup, which can lead to a dense loaf.
3. Don’t Overmix the Batter
Overmixing can make gluten-free bread gummy or tough. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture just until combined—some small lumps are okay.
4. Add Moisture for a Soft, Tender Texture
Sweet potatoes naturally add moisture, but you can further enhance this by:
- Using a little extra oil or butter if the batter looks too thick
- Adding a splash of almond milk if needed
- Ensuring your sweet potatoes are fully mashed and smooth
5. Bake at the Right Temperature
A moderate temperature of 350°F (175°C) is ideal for baking this bread evenly. Higher heat can cause the outside to cook too quickly while leaving the center underdone.
6. Check for Doneness the Right Way
Since gluten-free breads can take longer to cook, insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean or with a few dry crumbs, it’s done. If the top browns too quickly, cover the loaf lightly with foil for the last 15 minutes of baking.
7. Let It Cool Before Slicing
Resist the temptation to cut into the bread immediately! Letting it cool completely prevents crumbling and improves texture. For best results, wait at least 30 minutes before slicing.
Variations and Substitutions
Want to customize your Gluten-Free Sweet Potato Bread? Here are some variations and ingredient swaps to suit different dietary needs and preferences.
1. Make It Vegan
To make this recipe completely plant-based, replace the eggs with:
- Flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water per egg, let sit for 5 minutes)
- Unsweetened applesauce (¼ cup per egg)
2. Make It Nut-Free
If you have a nut allergy, simply omit the nuts or substitute them with:
- Sunflower seeds for a bit of crunch
- Pumpkin seeds for added nutrition
3. Reduce the Sugar for a Healthier Version
This bread is naturally sweet from the sweet potatoes, but you can reduce the added sugar by:
- Cutting the maple syrup or honey in half
- Adding more cinnamon and nutmeg for flavor balance
4. Add Extra Mix-Ins for More Texture & Flavor
- Chocolate Lovers: Stir in ½ cup dark chocolate chips for a sweet touch.
- Fruit-Boosted: Add ¼ cup dried cranberries or raisins for natural sweetness.
- Coconut Infused: Mix in ¼ cup shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
5. Try a Different Flour Blend
While a gluten-free all-purpose blend works best, you can experiment with:
- Almond flour (1:1 with coconut flour for structure) for a nuttier, lower-carb option
- Oat flour (adds a heartier texture, but may require extra moisture)
By making a few simple swaps, you can easily customize this Gluten-Free Sweet Potato Bread to fit your taste and dietary needs. Whether you keep it classic or get creative with add-ins, this recipe is sure to be a hit!
How to Store and Freeze Sweet Potato Bread
Proper storage ensures your Gluten-Free Sweet Potato Bread stays fresh, moist, and delicious for as long as possible. Here’s how to store it at room temperature, in the fridge, or freeze it for later enjoyment.
Storing at Room Temperature
- Once the bread has completely cooled, wrap it in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container.
- Keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days in a cool, dry place.
- If your kitchen is warm or humid, consider refrigerating to prevent spoilage.
Refrigerating for Longer Freshness
- Place the bread in an airtight container or resealable bag to prevent it from drying out.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 7-10 days.
- Reheat slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to bring back the soft texture.
Freezing for Long-Term Storage
Want to keep your bread fresh for weeks or months? Freezing is the best option!
How to Freeze Whole Loaf:
- Let the bread cool completely after baking.
- Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
- Place it in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container.
- Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
How to Freeze Individual Slices:
- Slice the bread before freezing for easy portioning.
- Lay slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for 1 hour.
- Transfer frozen slices into a zip-top freezer bag with parchment paper between them.
- Remove a slice as needed and toast or microwave for a quick snack.
How to Thaw and Reheat:
- To thaw a whole loaf, let it sit at room temperature for a few hours before slicing.
- For individual slices, microwave for 20-30 seconds or toast for a crisp edge.
Final Thoughts
This Gluten-Free Sweet Potato Bread is a simple yet delicious way to enjoy the rich flavors of sweet potatoes in a healthy, homemade loaf. Whether you serve it for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or as a light dessert, it’s sure to become a favorite.
With its naturally sweet and spiced flavor, this bread is perfect for all occasions. Plus, with the easy storage and freezing options, you can always have a slice ready when cravings strike.
Give this recipe a try, and let me know in the comments how it turned out! Did you add any fun mix-ins or try a variation? I’d love to hear your thoughts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Use Canned Sweet Potatoes Instead of Fresh?
Yes! If using canned sweet potatoes, make sure they are unsweetened and well-drained. Puree them until smooth before adding them to the batter.
2. What’s the Best Gluten-Free Flour to Use?
A gluten-free all-purpose flour blend with xanthan gum works best for texture and structure. If your blend doesn’t contain xanthan gum, add ½ teaspoon to the dry ingredients.
3. How Can I Make This Bread More Moist?
To ensure a super moist loaf, try these tips:
- Use extra mashed sweet potatoes (about ¼ cup more).
- Add a tablespoon of almond milk or yogurt if the batter seems thick.
- Avoid overbaking—check for doneness around 50 minutes.
4. Can I Make This Recipe Without Eggs?
Yes! To make it egg-free, use:
- Flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water per egg, let sit for 5 minutes).
- Unsweetened applesauce (¼ cup per egg).
5. How Do I Prevent My Gluten-Free Bread from Being Too Dense?
Gluten-free baking can sometimes lead to dense textures. Avoid this by:
- Measuring flour correctly (spoon and level, don’t scoop).
- Not overmixing the batter—stir until just combined.
- Using fresh baking powder and baking soda to ensure a good rise.
Now that you have all the tips, variations, and storage solutions, it’s time to bake your own Gluten-Free Sweet Potato Bread! Enjoy!
Gluten-Free Sweet Potato Bread
Equipment
- 1 large mixing bowl
- 1 medium mixing bowl
- 1 whisk
- 1 Silicone spatula
- 1 measuring cup set
- 1 measuring spoon set
- 1 9×5-inch loaf pan
- 1 Parchment paper (for lining)
- 1 Wire rack (for cooling)
- 1 oven
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup mashed sweet potatoes fresh or canned, smooth and lump-free
- 2 large eggs or flax eggs for a vegan option
- ⅓ cup coconut oil melted, or substitute with butter
- ½ cup maple syrup or honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups gluten-free all-purpose flour with xanthan gum
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
Optional Add-Ins:
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- ¼ cup dark chocolate chips
- ¼ cup dried cranberries or raisins
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- If using fresh sweet potatoes, roast or steam them until soft, then mash until smooth.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
- In a large bowl, whisk together the mashed sweet potatoes, eggs, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, sift together the gluten-free flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Step 4: Mix Everything Together
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined (do not overmix).
- If using add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips, fold them in at this stage.
Step 5: Bake the Bread
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- If the top is browning too quickly, loosely cover the loaf with aluminum foil for the last 15 minutes of baking.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice and serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy!
Notes
- Flour Substitute: If using almond flour, combine it with coconut flour (1:1 ratio) for better structure.
- Vegan Version: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg).
- Nut-Free: Omit nuts or use sunflower seeds for crunch.
- Storage: Keep at room temperature for 3 days, refrigerate for 7-10 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Serving Ideas: Delicious on its own, toasted with nut butter, or drizzled with honey.