Yam Sweet Bread

Prep: 20 min Cook: 60 min Serves: 10 Cuisine: American

Yam Sweet Bread is a moist, flavorful loaf combining the natural sweetness of mashed yams with warm spices, nuts, and raisins. Perfect for breakfast or a snack, it offers a comforting taste of home with a delightful texture and rich aroma that appeals to both kids and adults alike.

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Ingredients

  • 3 cups mashed yams
  • 1 1/4 cups sugar
  • 1/3 cup salad oil
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans
  • 1 cup raisins

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, add the mashed yams, sugar, salad oil, and eggs.
  2. Mix until smooth.
  3. In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and spices.
  4. Add the raisins and chopped pecans to the dry ingredients and coat them well.
  5. Stir the dry ingredients into the yam mixture until just combined.
  6. Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan.
  7. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  8. Allow to cool slightly before removing from the pan and serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the wet ingredients. If you don't have yams, sweet potatoes can be used as a substitute. You can also swap pecans for walnuts or omit them entirely for a nut-free version. Be careful not to overmix the batter to keep the bread light and fluffy.

Serving Suggestions

This yam sweet bread is delightful served warm with a pat of butter or cream cheese. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea for breakfast or an afternoon snack. Additionally, consider serving it alongside a fresh fruit salad for a refreshing contrast. For a festive touch, drizzle it with a simple glaze.

Storage & Reheating

To store leftovers, wrap the cooled yam sweet bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze for up to three months. Reheat slices in the microwave for a few seconds or enjoy them cold.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Yam Sweet Bread contains roughly 365 calories, with 4g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 968mg per serving (42% of the Daily Value).

365 kcal 18% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 4.4g 9% DV
Total Fat 22.9g 29% DV
Carbs 38.9g 14% DV
Fiber 10.4g 37% DV
Sugar 1.5g 3% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 967.5mg 42% DV
Potassium 245mg 5% DV
Cholesterol 2.6mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 2.7mcg
Vitamin C 12.2mg 14% DV
Calcium 196.2mg 15% DV
Iron 2.3mg 13% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Under 400 cal
Contains Egg Wheat/Gluten Tree nuts

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned yams for this recipe?

Yes, you can use canned yams. Just ensure to drain and mash them well before incorporating them into the mixture. Canned yams can make the process quicker, but fresh yams often have a better flavor and texture.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this yam sweet bread gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum or add it separately to help the bread rise and maintain its texture.

Can I add other fruits or nuts to the bread?

Absolutely! You can customize the bread by adding chopped apples, dried cranberries, or even chocolate chips. Just be mindful of the total volume of add-ins to maintain the right batter consistency.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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