Sweet Potato Cornbread Recipe (Low-Carb Twist)

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Cost per Serving: $2.50
  • Calorie Count per Serving: 180 kcal

I made this Sweet Potato Cornbread for my little sister, who usually has no appetite. To my surprise, she absolutely loved it and ate more than I expected! Seeing her enjoy it so much warmed my heart. Now, my mom is already asking me to make another batch for her. It’s comforting, naturally sweet, and packed with healthy ingredients—perfect for the whole family. Give it a try and see if it becomes a hit at your house too!

Why You’ll Love This Sweet Potato Cornbread

Sweet potato cornbread baked to golden perfection in a cast-iron skillet

There’s something magical about the combination of sweet potato and cornbread! Here’s why you’ll keep coming back to this Sweet Potato Cornbread :

1. Comforting & Wholesome

This Sweet Potato Cornbread is the perfect comfort food—moist, fluffy, and warm, with a touch of natural sweetness from the sweet potato. It’s a nostalgic twist on a Southern classic, made healthier without sacrificing flavor. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a casual family dinner, this dish gives you all the cozy vibes!

2. Naturally Sweetened (No Added Sugar)

Who needs sugar when sweet potatoes are naturally sweet and rich? This recipe lets the natural sugars of the sweet potato shine. You can also adjust the sweetness by adding honey or maple syrup if you prefer a slightly sweeter bread.

3. Moist, Yet Light and Fluffy

Tired of dry, crumbly cornbread? The mashed sweet potato in this Sweet Potato Cornbread keeps the bread moist and tender, while almond flour adds a light texture. Plus, baking powder and apple cider vinegar work together to create just the right amount of rise, giving you that perfect balance of density and fluff.

4. Low-Carb Friendly

Unlike traditional cornbread made with cornmeal, this version uses almond and coconut flour to slash the carbs without compromising on taste. It’s perfect for anyone following a low-carb or keto lifestyle!

5. Perfect for Meal Prep

This cornbread stores well, making it great for meal planning. Bake a batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week! Reheat in the oven or microwave, and it’s just as delicious as when it came out of the oven.

6. Versatile Pairing Options

Sweet potato cornbread is the ultimate side dish—pair it with almost anything! Whether you’re serving low-carb chili, hearty soups, grilled meats, or roasted veggies, this bread fits right in. Want more variety? Customize the recipe with your favorite add-ins like jalapeĂąos, cheese, or herbs!

7. Kid-Friendly & Crowd-Pleasing

Even picky eaters will love this Sweet Potato Cornbread! The mild sweetness and soft, cake-like texture make it a hit with kids and adults alike. Bring it to your next gathering, and watch it disappear fast. It’s always a winner at family dinners, potlucks, and holiday meals!

These are just a few reasons why this Sweet Potato Cornbread deserves a spot on your regular recipe rotation. Trust me—you’ll fall in love after just one bite!

Health Benefits of Sweet Potatoes

A fluffy slice of sweet potato cornbread, perfect as a healthy side dish

Sweet potatoes aren’t just delicious—they’re a powerhouse of nutrition! Here’s why incorporating them into your diet (especially through this Sweet Potato Cornbread!) is a smart and healthy choice:

1. Rich in Vitamin A

Sweet potatoes are one of the best natural sources of beta-carotene, which your body converts to vitamin A. This vitamin is essential for:

  • Eye health, helping to prevent vision problems like night blindness.
  • Immune system support, protecting you from infections and illnesses.
  • Healthy skin, promoting natural repair and glow.

One serving of sweet potato can provide over 400% of your daily vitamin A needs!

2. High in Fiber for Digestive Health

Sweet potatoes contain both soluble and insoluble fiber, which aid in digestion by:

  • Promoting regular bowel movements.
  • Supporting a healthy gut microbiome by feeding beneficial bacteria.
  • Helping control blood sugar levels by slowing the absorption of sugar into your bloodstream.

This makes them a great addition to any diet focused on digestive health and weight management.

3. Stabilizes Blood Sugar Levels

Despite their natural sweetness, sweet potatoes have a low glycemic index (GI). This means they release sugar slowly into the bloodstream, preventing spikes in blood sugar levels.

  • This can help people with type 2 diabetes maintain better glucose control.
  • Pairing them with healthy fats (like the butter in this recipe) further improves blood sugar regulation.

4. Packed with Antioxidants

Sweet potatoes are loaded with antioxidants like beta-carotene and anthocyanins (especially in purple varieties). These compounds:

  • Protect your cells from free radical damage.
  • Lower inflammation, reducing the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer.
  • Help maintain brain health, possibly preventing cognitive decline.

5. Boosts Energy with Complex Carbs

Sweet potatoes provide complex carbohydrates, which give you a steady supply of energy. Unlike refined carbs that cause a quick sugar crash, sweet potatoes fuel you for hours without leaving you sluggish.

This makes them ideal for:

  • Post-workout recovery to restore glycogen levels.
  • Sustained focus during long work or study sessions.

6. Supports Heart Health

Sweet potatoes are rich in potassium, an essential mineral that helps regulate blood pressure by counteracting the effects of sodium. Additionally, their high fiber content can help lower cholesterol, further reducing the risk of heart disease.

7. Great for Weight Management

If you’re watching your weight, sweet potatoes can help! Their fiber content keeps you feeling full and satisfied longer, reducing the chances of overeating. Plus, they’re relatively low in calories while being packed with essential nutrients.

Incorporating sweet potatoes into your meals—especially through this Sweet Potato Cornbread—offers a delicious way to support your health and wellness. Enjoy guilt-free comfort food with benefits that your body will thank you for!

How to make this Sweet Potato Cornbread Recipe

Ingredients

For the Sweet Potato Cornbread:

  • 1 cup mashed sweet potato (baked or steamed)
  • 1 cup almond flour (or use cornmeal for a traditional touch)
  • ½ cup coconut flour (optional for a low-carb option)
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • ⅓ cup unsweetened almond milk (or your favorite milk)
  • 2 tbsp melted butter (or coconut oil for dairy-free)
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (helps with fluffiness!)
  • 2 tbsp honey (optional for added sweetness)

Instructions

1: Prepare the Sweet Potato
  • Bake or steam your sweet potato until fork-tender, then mash until smooth. Let it cool before mixing. Pro Tip: A pre-baked sweet potato from the day before works great!
2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
  • In a large bowl, whisk together the almond flour, coconut flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3: Whisk the Wet Ingredients
  • In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, almond milk, melted butter, and apple cider vinegar. Stir in the mashed sweet potato until well combined.
4: Combine Wet & Dry Mixtures
  • Slowly pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring until a smooth batter forms. The batter should be thick but spreadable.
5: Pour & Bake
  • Grease a cast-iron skillet (or 9-inch square baking pan) with butter or oil. Pour in the batter and smooth the top.
  • Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  • Pro Tip: Want crispy edges? Use a preheated cast-iron skillet!

Tips for the Perfect Sweet Potato Cornbread

1. Don’t Overmix the Batter

Overmixing can lead to dense, rubbery cornbread. When combining wet and dry ingredients, stir just until everything is combined. A few lumps in the batter are perfectly fine!

2. Use Pre-Cooked Sweet Potatoes

For the best flavor and texture, bake or steam your sweet potatoes ahead of time. Baking brings out their natural sweetness, while steaming helps retain moisture. A day-old baked sweet potato works perfectly here! Just mash and cool before mixing it into the batter.

3. Preheat Your Cast-Iron Skillet

Want crispy, golden edges? Preheat your cast-iron skillet in the oven before pouring in the batter. A hot skillet creates an instant crust that adds texture and locks in moisture. Don’t have a cast-iron skillet? Use a preheated baking pan instead!

4. Add a Little Apple Cider Vinegar

Adding one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar helps activate the baking powder, creating a lighter and fluffier bread. This is especially important when using low-carb flours, which can sometimes make baked goods denser.

5. Let the Batter Rest

Give the batter 5-10 minutes to rest before baking. This allows the coconut flour to absorb more moisture, preventing dryness and ensuring the batter is evenly hydrated.

6. Customize the Flavor

Take your cornbread to the next level by adding extra ingredients. For a savory twist, fold in shredded cheddar, diced jalapeĂąos, or crumbled bacon. For a sweet option, add cinnamon, a splash of vanilla, or crushed pecans. These add-ins make your cornbread more versatile and crowd-pleasing!

7. Use Room-Temperature Ingredients

Room-temperature eggs, milk, and butter blend more easily and evenly. Cold ingredients can lead to uneven baking and a less tender texture. Take your eggs and milk out of the fridge about 30 minutes before starting.

8. Check for Doneness with a Toothpick

To avoid underbaking, insert a toothpick into the center of the cornbread. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s ready! If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover it with foil for the last 10 minutes of baking.

9. Don’t Skip the Grease!

Whether you’re using butter, coconut oil, or cooking spray, make sure to thoroughly grease your pan or skillet. This not only prevents sticking but also helps develop a beautiful golden crust.

10. Cool Before Slicing

Let the cornbread cool for at least 10 minutes. This gives it time to set, making it easier to slice without crumbling.

By following these tips, you’ll achieve perfect sweet potato cornbread every time!

Kid-Friendly Additions for Sweet Potato Cornbread

Want to make this recipe even more fun and appealing for kids? Here are a few ideas to boost the flavor and add excitement:

1. Mini Cornbread Muffins

Kids love bite-sized foods! Pour the batter into a greased muffin tin and bake for 15-18 minutes. Perfect for little hands and school lunches.

2. Add a Sweet Topping

  • Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: Lightly sprinkle a mix of cinnamon and coconut sugar on top before baking for a sweet, crunchy crust.
  • Drizzle of Honey or Maple Syrup: Add a drizzle after baking for extra sweetness.

3. Mix in Fun Ingredients

  • Chocolate Chips: Fold in a handful of dark chocolate chips to make the cornbread irresistible.
  • Chopped Pecans or Walnuts: For a healthy crunch (if there are no nut allergies).
  • Diced Apples: Adds sweetness and moisture.

4. Serve with a Dip

Pair the cornbread with a kid-friendly dip like honey butter, cream cheese, or peanut butter for extra flavor.

These small changes can turn the recipe into a family favorite that even the pickiest eaters will love!

How This Sweet Potato Cornbread Supports Low-Carb Diets

Traditional cornbread is delicious, but it can be high in carbs due to ingredients like cornmeal, sugar, and flour. This Sweet Potato Cornbread offers a smart alternative by swapping out high-carb ingredients for low-carb options without compromising on taste and texture. Here’s how it works:

1. Almond Flour Instead of Cornmeal

Almond flour is a low-carb, gluten-free flour that’s high in protein and healthy fats.

  • Carb Content: Only 3 grams of net carbs per Âź cup, compared to 20+ grams in cornmeal.
  • Health Benefits: Almond flour is rich in vitamin E, magnesium, and fiber, helping to support heart health and reduce inflammation.

This switch keeps the recipe keto-friendly while still maintaining a moist, fluffy texture.

2. Coconut Flour as a Supplement

A small amount of coconut flour adds additional structure and moisture to the bread. Since coconut flour is very absorbent, you only need a little to get great results.

  • Carb Content: About 2 grams of net carbs per tablespoon.
  • Health Benefits: It’s high in dietary fiber, which helps with digestion and stabilizes blood sugar levels.

3. Sweet Potato in Controlled Portions

You might be wondering—how can sweet potato, a starchy vegetable, fit into a low-carb plan? The key is portion control!

  • In this Sweet Potato Cornbread, we use just enough mashed sweet potato to add flavor, moisture, and nutrients without overloading the carb count.
  • Tip: If you’re on strict keto, you can reduce the sweet potato further or replace it with pumpkin puree, which is lower in carbs.

4. Natural Sweetness—No Refined Sugar

Sweet potatoes provide natural sweetness, allowing you to skip added sugar entirely. If you prefer a slightly sweeter bread, you can add a touch of low-carb sweeteners like:

  • Monk fruit sweetener
  • Erythritol
  • Stevia

This keeps the recipe compliant with low-carb and keto diets while still tasting indulgent.

5. Healthy Fats for Satiety

This Sweet Potato Cornbread includes butter (or coconut oil for a dairy-free version), which boosts the healthy fat content.

  • Healthy fats are essential for keeping you full and energized on a low-carb diet.
  • Fats also help the body absorb fat-soluble vitamins (like vitamin A from sweet potatoes).

6. Minimal Impact on Blood Sugar

The combination of low-carb flours, fiber, and healthy fats ensures a slow release of energy, preventing blood sugar spikes. This is especially important for:

  • Diabetics who need to manage glucose levels.
  • Keto dieters who want to stay in ketosis by keeping their carb intake low.

7. Keto-Friendly Variations

You can make this recipe even more keto-friendly by:

  • Reducing the sweet potato and adding more coconut or almond flour.
  • Skipping honey or sweeteners altogether.
  • Adding cheese (like shredded cheddar) to increase fat content and create a savory version.

8. Balanced Macros

This Sweet Potato Cornbread provides an excellent balance of healthy fats, fiber, and moderate protein while keeping net carbs low. It’s designed to fuel your body and help you stay on track with your low-carb or keto goals!

With these swaps and tips, this Sweet Potato Cornbread proves you can still enjoy your favorite comfort foods while following a low-carb diet. 🙌 It’s hearty, flavorful, and packed with nutrition—without the carb overload!

Pairing Suggestions & Flavor Enhancements

Sweet potato cornbread is a versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses, soups, and salads. Here are some ideas to try:

  • Hearty Soups and Stews: The moist, fluffy texture complements rich, flavorful broths. Pair it with potato and hamburger soup, creamy marry me chicken soup, or a creamy green chili chicken soup for a comforting meal.
  • Grilled or Roasted Meats: Serve alongside grilled chicken, or BBQ ribs to balance savory and smoky flavors with the sweetness of the cornbread.
  • Salads: Lighten up your meal by pairing it with a crunchy kale salad or arugula with citrus vinaigrette. The sweet potato’s natural sweetness contrasts nicely with tart and tangy flavors.
  • Holiday Meals: This cornbread is a great addition to a holiday spread, pairing well with roasted turkey, glazed ham, or stuffed bell peppers.

Flavor Enhancements

Looking to personalize your cornbread? Here are some fun ways to enhance the flavor and texture:

  • Savory Add-ins:
    • Shredded Cheese (cheddar, gouda, or mozzarella) adds a rich, melty texture.
    • Diced JalapeĂąos give the bread a spicy kick, perfect for chili night.
    • Crumbled Bacon adds a smoky, salty crunch that complements the sweet potato.
  • Sweet Add-ins:
    • Cinnamon or Nutmeg enhances the natural sweetness of the sweet potato.
    • Chopped Pecans or Walnuts provide a delightful crunch.
    • A Drizzle of Honey or Maple Syrup adds a subtle sweetness for those who want a dessert-like bread.
  • Toppings:
    • Whipped Honey Butter is a classic Southern favorite that pairs perfectly with warm cornbread.
    • Cinnamon Butter adds a warm, spiced twist.
    • Cream Cheese Spread creates a rich, tangy contrast to the bread’s sweetness.

These pairing and flavor ideas make the sweet potato cornbread adaptable to any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to special celebrations!

Tools You’ll Need

Please note that the links below are affiliate links. If you click and make a purchase, I’ll earn a small commission (at no additional cost to you). Thank you for supporting my blog!

To make this Sweet Potato Cornbread with ease, gather the following tools:

1. Mixing Bowls: You’ll need at least two mixing bowls—one for your dry ingredients and one for the wet ingredients. Using separate bowls helps prevent overmixing and ensures even distribution of ingredients. here
2. Whisk: A whisk is essential for breaking up clumps in your dry ingredients and for thoroughly combining your wet ingredients. If you don’t have a whisk, a fork can be used as an alternative. here
3. Cast-Iron Skillet (or Baking Pan): A cast-iron skillet is ideal for achieving a golden, crispy crust. It retains heat well and ensures even baking. If you don’t have one, a 9-inch square or round baking pan works just as well, though it won’t create the same crispy edges.
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Sweet Potato Cornbread


  • Author: Chef Zainab
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Sweet Potato Cornbread is soft, moist, and naturally sweet, made with almond flour and mashed sweet potatoes for a healthy, low-carb option. It’s perfect as a comforting side dish for soups, stews, or BBQs and can be easily customized with sweet or savory add-ins. Even picky eaters will love it!


Ingredients

Scale

1 cup mashed sweet potato (baked or steamed)

1 cup almond flour

½ cup coconut flour (optional for structure)

½ tsp baking soda

1 tsp baking powder

1 tsp salt

2 large eggs

⅓ cup unsweetened almond milk (or preferred milk)

2 tbsp melted butter (or coconut oil for dairy-free)

1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

2 tbsp honey (optional for added sweetness)


Instructions

A fluffy slice of sweet potato cornbread, perfect as a healthy side dish
  1. Prepare the Sweet Potato: Bake or steam your sweet potato until fork-tender, then mash until smooth. Let it cool.
  2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together almond flour, coconut flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. Whisk the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, almond milk, melted butter, and apple cider vinegar. Add the mashed sweet potato and mix until combined.
  4. Combine Wet & Dry Ingredients: Slowly pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring until a thick, smooth batter forms.
  5. Prepare the Skillet: Grease a cast-iron skillet or a 9-inch baking pan. Pour in the batter and smooth the top.
  6. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean.
  7. Cool and Serve: Let the cornbread cool for 10 minutes before slicing.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, try adding shredded cheddar cheese, diced jalapeĂąos, or cinnamon to the batter.
  • This recipe can be made into muffins by using a greased muffin tin and baking for 15-18 minutes.
  • Use preheated cast iron for crispy edges.
  • For keto-friendliness, skip the honey or replace with a sugar-free sweetener.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Rise & Dine
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American, Southern-Inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1Slice
  • Calories: 180 kcal
  • Sugar: 3g(depending on honey use)
  • Sodium: 340mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g(lower if coconut flour is used)
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: sweet potato cornbread, low-carb cornbread, healthy sweet potato recipe, gluten-free cornbread, savory and sweet cornbread, kid-friendly sides, almond flour recipe, low-carb comfort food

Sweet Potato Cornbread FAQ: Everything You Need to Know

Is sweet potato a good substitute for bread?

Yes! Sweet potatoes can be a great substitute for bread in certain recipes. They provide natural sweetness, fiber, and nutrients like vitamin A. In this recipe, mashed sweet potato adds moisture and structure to the cornbread, giving it a soft and fluffy texture. For other meals, you can use baked sweet potato slices as a low-carb alternative to bread for sandwiches or burgers.

What is the difference between Southern cornbread and sweet cornbread?

Southern cornbread is traditionally savory, made with minimal sugar and sometimes with buttermilk or bacon drippings for added flavor. It often has a denser texture and is baked in a hot cast-iron skillet to create a crispy crust. Sweet cornbread, on the other hand, includes more sugar or honey and has a lighter, cake-like texture. Our sweet potato version strikes a balance between both styles—moist and fluffy with a hint of natural sweetness.

Why do you need to soak sweet potatoes before cooking?

Is sweet potato a good substitute for bread?
Yes! Sweet potatoes can be a great substitute for bread in certain recipes. They provide natural sweetness, fiber, and nutrients like vitamin A. In this recipe, mashed sweet potato adds moisture and structure to the cornbread, giving it a soft and fluffy texture. For other meals, you can use baked sweet potato slices as a low-carb alternative to bread for sandwiches or burgers.

What does Patti LaBelle put in her sweet potato pie?

Patti LaBelle’s famous sweet potato pie includes ingredients like mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, butter, evaporated milk, cinnamon, and nutmeg. It has a rich, custard-like filling with warm spices and a perfectly flaky crust. While this cornbread isn’t a pie, the sweet potato and optional cinnamon in this recipe give it a similar comforting flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

This Sweet Potato Cornbread is a game-changer! It’s healthy, comforting, and incredibly versatile—perfect for any occasion, whether you’re meal prepping for the week or hosting a family gathering. Plus, it’s packed with flavor and nutrients without the carb overload!

Now it’s your turn to give this recipe a try. I’d love to hear how it turned out for you! Did you add your own twist? Maybe some cheese, jalapeĂąos, or honey butter?

Share your creations on social media and tag @BoldBitesHub. I can’t wait to see your delicious results and hear your thoughts! 🧡 Let’s spread the love for healthy, tasty food! 🙌

Happy baking! 😊

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