Spiced Sweet Potato Loaf with Cream Cheese & Pistachio Topping

A comforting loaf made from mashed sweet potatoes and warm spices, topped with a creamy frosting and crunchy pistachios, perfect for breakfast or dessert.

Prep Time15

Cook Time55

Total Time1 10

Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American, Baking

Keyword: Baking, Cream Cheese Frosting, Dessert Recipes, Fall Recipes, sweet potato loaf

Servings: 8 slices

Calories: 250kcal

Ingredients

For the Loaf

200 g mashed sweet potato Provides incredible moisture and natural sweetness.
150 g light brown sugar Adds caramel-like sweetness.
100 ml vegetable oil Ensures a tender crumb.
2 pieces eggs Essential for binding.
1 tsp vanilla extract Enhances the flavor.
190 g all-purpose flour Provides structure.
1 tsp baking powder Helps the loaf rise.
1/2 tsp baking soda Works with vinegar to lift the loaf.
1/2 tsp salt Balances flavors.
1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon Adds warmth.
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg Contributes a slightly sweet flavor.
1/4 tsp ground ginger Adds a zesty kick.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

100 g cream cheese, softened Creates a creamy topping.
50 g unsalted butter, softened Adds richness to the frosting.
100 g powdered sugar Balances the tanginess of cream cheese.
1/2 tsp vanilla extract Enhances frosting flavor.
pinch salt Balances sweetness.
2 tbsp chopped pistachios For topping, adds crunch.

Instructions

Preparation

Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease a standard loaf pan and line it with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mashed sweet potato, light brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
In another bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.

Baking

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean.

Frosting

In a separate mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until creamy.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt, beating until fluffy.

Finishing Touch

Once the loaf has cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting over it and sprinkle with chopped pistachios.

Notes

Use fresh sweet potatoes for best results. Don’t overmix the batter and cool the loaf completely before frosting. Optional: Add a pinch of cinnamon or orange zest for extra flavor.