When I first baked this cornbread, it felt like comfort in every bite. The sweet potato gave it a moist, tender texture, while the hint of cinnamon added warmth that reminded me of cozy autumn days. I remember serving it fresh from the oven, the golden edges slightly crisp, and a generous spread of cinnamon honey butter melting right on top. The combination of sweet, spiced, and buttery flavors instantly turned a simple side dish into something truly special.
This recipe is more than just bread on the table—it’s a story of tradition with a twist. Cornbread has always been a classic, but the addition of sweet potato brings a soft richness that makes each slice taste unique. Whether you enjoy it with a bowl of chili, as a sweet side for dinner, or even as a quick snack with tea, it fits every moment perfectly.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Versatile
You can enjoy this cornbread in many ways. Serve it warm as a side with savory meals, or sweeten things up by treating it like a dessert. The cinnamon honey butter makes it equally delightful at breakfast or as a comforting afternoon snack.
Budget-Friendly
All the ingredients are easy to find and very affordable. Sweet potatoes, cornmeal, and a few pantry staples come together to make a recipe that feels gourmet without costing much. It’s proof that delicious doesn’t need to be expensive.
Ingredients for Cinnamon Honey Butter Sweet Potato Cornbread
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1 cup mashed sweet potato (about 1 medium sweet potato)
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1 cup yellow cornmeal
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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½ cup granulated sugar
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1 teaspoon baking powder
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½ teaspoon baking soda
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1 teaspoon cinnamon
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½ teaspoon salt
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2 large eggs, lightly beaten
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½ cup buttermilk
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¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
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1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free)
For the Cinnamon Honey Butter
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½ cup unsalted butter, softened
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3 tablespoons honey
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½ teaspoon cinnamon
This list brings together simple ingredients that transform into a heartwarming recipe. The star, of course, is the sweet potato—it keeps the cornbread moist and naturally sweet. The cinnamon honey butter takes everything to the next level, creating a topping that feels indulgent and comforting at the same time.
How to Make Cinnamon Honey Butter Sweet Potato Cornbread
When I prepare this recipe, I always start with the sweet potato because it’s the heart of the bread. Soft and naturally sweet, it blends perfectly into the batter. The process is simple, and every step adds to the warm, comforting flavors that make this cornbread unforgettable.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making
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Cook the Sweet Potato
Begin by piercing a medium sweet potato with a fork several times. Microwave it for 6–8 minutes until it becomes soft. Allow it to cool slightly, then peel and mash it until smooth. This creates the creamy base for the cornbread. -
Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Combining these ingredients first ensures that the rising agents and spices are evenly distributed. -
Blend the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, combine the mashed sweet potato, lightly beaten eggs, buttermilk, melted butter, and Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free). Whisk until smooth. The mixture should be silky and rich, with a warm orange color from the sweet potato. -
Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread dense instead of tender. The batter should look thick but pourable. -
Prepare the Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or a cast-iron skillet with butter. Pour the batter in and spread it evenly. -
Bake the Cornbread
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown with a slightly crisp edge. -
Make the Cinnamon Honey Butter
While the bread bakes, prepare the topping. In a small bowl, whisk together softened butter, honey, and cinnamon until the mixture becomes fluffy and smooth. Refrigerate it until ready to use so it firms up slightly. -
Cool and Serve
Once baked, let the cornbread cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve each piece warm with a generous spread of cinnamon honey butter. The butter melts beautifully, creating a glossy finish that enhances every bite.
Quick and Easy
This recipe is straightforward, and even beginners can make it with confidence. The steps are clear, and the total preparation takes less than an hour from start to finish.
Customizable
You can adjust the sweetness by reducing the sugar slightly or increasing the cinnamon for a stronger spiced flavor. For a healthier touch, swap part of the flour with whole wheat flour. If you prefer muffins instead of a loaf, simply divide the batter into a muffin tin and bake for about 18–20 minutes.
Crowd-Pleasing
Whenever I serve this cornbread, it disappears quickly. The moist texture and sweet-spiced taste appeal to kids and adults alike. It pairs beautifully with savory dishes like soups and stews but also shines on its own as a treat.
This combination of ease, flexibility, and flavor makes it a recipe worth keeping in your kitchen rotation.
FAQs about Cinnamon Honey Butter Sweet Potato Cornbread
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cornbread a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature. Warm it in the oven or microwave before serving to bring back its soft texture and fresh flavor.
Can I substitute canned sweet potato puree for fresh sweet potato?
Absolutely. If you are short on time, canned sweet potato puree works well. Just make sure it is plain, with no added sugar or spices, to keep the flavor balanced.
What can I use instead of buttermilk?
If you do not have buttermilk, mix ½ cup of milk with 1 teaspoon of lemon juice or apple vinegar. Let it sit for a few minutes before using. This creates the same tangy effect as buttermilk.
Can I bake this cornbread in muffin form?
Yes, the batter works wonderfully for muffins. Pour it into a greased muffin tin and bake for about 18–20 minutes. This option is great for serving at parties or for quick snacks.
How should I store leftovers?
Keep leftover cornbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to 5 days. You can also freeze slices for up to 2 months and reheat them in the oven.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Definitely. Kids love the natural sweetness of the sweet potato and the cinnamon honey butter topping. It’s a wholesome snack that feels like a treat.
Can I make the honey butter dairy-free?
Yes, simply replace the butter with a plant-based alternative. The honey can be swapped with maple syrup if needed, which makes the topping vegan-friendly as well.
What dishes pair best with this cornbread?
This cornbread is versatile. It pairs perfectly with chili, soups, roasted meats, or even as a sweet finish after dinner. Its balance of savory and sweet flavors makes it suitable for many meals.

Cinnamon Honey Butter Sweet Potato Cornbread: A Delicious Twist to a Classic Favorite
This Cinnamon Honey Butter Sweet Potato Cornbread is a warm and flavorful twist on the classic. The sweet potato keeps it moist, the cinnamon adds comforting spice, and the honey butter topping makes every bite indulgent. Perfect as a side dish, snack, or light dessert.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Ingredients
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1 cup mashed sweet potato (about 1 medium sweet potato)
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1 cup yellow cornmeal
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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½ cup granulated sugar
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1 teaspoon baking powder
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½ teaspoon baking soda
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1 teaspoon cinnamon
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½ teaspoon salt
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2 large eggs, lightly beaten
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½ cup buttermilk
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¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
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1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free)
For the Cinnamon Honey Butter:
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½ cup unsalted butter, softened
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3 tablespoons honey
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½ teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
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Pierce a medium sweet potato with a fork. Microwave for 6–8 minutes until soft, then let cool. Peel and mash until smooth.
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In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
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In another bowl, mix mashed sweet potato, eggs, buttermilk, melted butter, and Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free) until smooth.
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Gradually fold wet ingredients into dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or cast-iron skillet. Pour in batter and spread evenly.
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Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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While baking, prepare the cinnamon honey butter. Whisk softened butter, honey, and cinnamon until fluffy. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
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Allow cornbread to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm with cinnamon honey butter spread generously on top.
Notes
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For muffins, divide batter into a muffin tin and bake 18–20 minutes.
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Replace buttermilk with ½ cup milk mixed with 1 teaspoon lemon juice or apple vinegar if needed.
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Cornbread can be stored in an airtight container for 2 days at room temperature or up to 5 days refrigerated.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes