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Spiced sweet potato loaf with cream cheese and pistachio topping on a plate
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Spiced Sweet Potato Loaf

A delightful blend of warm spices and sweet potato, topped with creamy frosting and crunchy pistachios, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time55 minutes
Total Time1 hour 15 minutes
Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Baked Goods, comfort food, Fall Recipes, Seasonal Baking, Sweet Potato Loaf
Servings: 8 slices
Calories: 230kcal

Ingredients

For the loaf

  • 200 g mashed sweet potato (about 1 cup, cooked and cooled) Forms the moist foundation of the loaf.
  • 150 g light brown sugar Adds warmth and depth.
  • 100 ml vegetable oil Infuses moisture into the loaf.
  • 2 pcs eggs Essential for structure and binding.
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract Enhances the overall flavor.
  • 190 g all-purpose flour Contributes to the structure.
  • 1 tsp baking powder Helps the loaf rise.
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda Works alongside baking powder.
  • 1/2 tsp salt Balances sweetness.
  • 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon Evokes nostalgic baking memories.
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg Adds complexity.
  • 1/4 tsp ground ginger Elevates the loaf's flavor.

For the frosting

  • 100 g cream cheese, softened Star of the frosting.
  • 50 g unsalted butter, softened Adds richness.
  • 100 g powdered sugar Sweetness for the frosting.
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract Enhances the frosting flavor.
  • pinch of salt Balances the sweetness.
  • 2 tbsp chopped pistachios Adds texture and visual appeal.
  • optional pinch of cinnamon or orange zest For extra flavor depth.

Instructions

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F).
  • Grease and line a standard loaf pan with parchment paper.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together the creamy mashed sweet potato, light brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Combining Ingredients

  • In another bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices.
  • Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.

Baking

  • Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
  • Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
  • Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Frosting and Serving

  • In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until creamy.
  • Gradually add in the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, beating until fluffy.
  • Once the loaf is completely cool, spread the frosting over the top.
  • Sprinkle the chopped pistachios over the frosting.

Notes

To ensure a beautifully moist loaf, always cool the sweet potatoes before mashing. Use room temperature eggs and butter for better incorporation. Keeping your baking tools ready can streamline the process.