Sweet Potato Butter Spread

Sweet potato butter makes for a luxuriously smooth and deeply spiced spread that instantly brightens up breakfast or brings a festive note to any table. With just a handful of simple ingredients and about twenty minutes, you will have a jar of something both homey and gift—worthy.

I first made this as little gifts for my neighbors during the holidays and got asked for the recipe before the jars were even empty. It is so easy to get creative with and always brings out lots of smiles.

Ingredients

• Mashed sweet potatoes: Delivers the naturally sweet base you want for real depth—roast them yourself for best flavor or use store bought if you need a shortcut
• Unsweetened apple juice: Brightens up the butter and adds mild fruitiness—look for juice with minimal additives and no extra sugar
• Dark brown sugar: Deepens the caramel notes with a hint of molasses—the richer color makes a difference but you can swap light brown sugar in a pinch
• Cinnamon: Provides cozy warmth—go for a high quality ground cinnamon for best aroma
• Ground cloves: Adds classic holiday spice but a little goes a long way—make sure your supply is fresh for lively flavor
• Ground ginger: Gives gentle heat and balances the sweetness—choose ground ginger for a smooth blend

Instructions

Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:

Bake whole sweet potatoes at four hundred degrees Fahrenheit until completely tender, about forty five minutes, then scoop out the flesh and mash thoroughly so no large bits remain

Combine the Ingredients:

In a medium saucepan, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, unsweetened apple juice, dark brown sugar, cinnamon, ground cloves, and ground ginger. Mix well to combine everything so the spices are evenly distributed

Simmer the Mixture:

Place the pan over medium high heat and bring everything to a gentle simmer, stir often and cook for about fifteen minutes until the liquid is mostly absorbed and the mixture is thick and glossy—keep an eye on the bottom to avoid scorching

Blend for Smoothness:

Check for lumps; once smooth enough, remove from heat. For ultra creaminess, carefully transfer the warm mixture to a food processor or blender (venting for steam) and blend until completely silky

Cool and Store:

Let the sweet potato butter cool to room temperature, transfer to airtight containers or sterilized jars and refrigerate. It will keep for up to one week; the flavors will deepen as it sits

Sweet potatoes are the unsung hero of my kitchen. I love how roasting them makes the entire house smell warm and inviting. My kids always ask to help with the spices and it turns into a little family ritual, especially as the holidays approach.

Storage Tips

Cool the sweet potato butter before moving it to airtight containers. Use glass jars for easy gifting. Store in the refrigerator for up to seven days. For longer storage, freeze in small portions and thaw overnight before using.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are out of dark brown sugar, light brown sugar does the trick. For spices, try swapping in pumpkin pie spice for an easy blend. Sweetened apple juice works but reduce the sugar by half. Taste as you go to adjust the warmth of the spices.

Serving Suggestions

Spread on biscuits, warm toast, English muffins or even pancakes. For a savory twist, swirl a spoonful into oatmeal or yogurt. Add to a cheese board next to sharp cheddar or creamy goat cheese for an unexpected sweet element.

Cultural and Holiday Touches

Sweet potato butter is inspired by traditional apple and pumpkin butters. With sweet potatoes being such a staple in Southern holiday menus, I love how this version brings together comfort and nostalgia. It is equally at home at a Thanksgiving spread or packaged as a thoughtful hostess gift.

Seasonal Adaptations

Make in the fall with fresh sweet potatoes for peak flavor. Try adding a pinch of nutmeg for a more wintery twist. In summer, swirl into vanilla ice cream for a cooling dessert.

Success Stories

I have gifted these jars for teachers in December and always get requests for more. The beautiful amber color and cinnamon aroma mean everyone feels extra special opening a jar on a chilly morning. Friends have started to expect it every year.

Freezer Meal Conversion

Sweet potato butter keeps texture and flavor if frozen. Place cooled butter in freezer safe containers leaving a little space at the top. Thaw in the fridge before using and stir well. Freezing means you can enjoy homemade flavor even months after making it.

Once you try this silky sweet potato butter, you’ll want to make it a new holiday tradition. It is equally perfect spread on breakfast toast or shared as a heartfelt gift.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use canned sweet potatoes?

Yes, canned or pre-cooked mashed sweet potatoes work well. Just ensure they're drained before using.

→ How long does it keep in the fridge?

Sweet potato butter stays fresh for up to one week when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

→ Is it safe to can for gifts?

Yes, divide into sterilized jars and process according to proper canning guidelines to safely give it as gifts.

→ Can I use sweetened apple juice?

You can substitute sweetened apple juice, but reduce the brown sugar by half to avoid too much sweetness.

→ What are the best ways to enjoy it?

Spread it over biscuits, toast, warm bread, or swirl into yogurt and oatmeal for added flavor.