Seeded Miso Sweet Potato Bread Recipe

A wholesome, hearty bread blending roasted sweet potatoes, miso, and crunchy seeds. Perfectly moist, subtly sweet, and savory with a nutty finish, this unique loaf is ideal for breakfast or a satisfying snack.

There’s something truly special about biting into a slice of Seeded Miso Sweet Potato Bread—a rustic loaf that brings together a slightly sweet, earthy taste from roasted sweet potatoes, a subtle umami depth from miso, and the crunch of mixed seeds. This isn’t just any bread; it’s a sensory journey that feels nourishing and satisfying in every bite. From the first aroma of roasting sweet potatoes to the final crisp crust, this loaf will make you rethink what bread can be.

This bread is a bit of a conversation piece—both unexpected and comforting at the same time. It’s the kind of recipe that brings out curiosity in friends and family, and once they’ve tried it, they’ll be asking for it again and again. Plus, it’s wonderfully versatile, delicious on its own, or toasted with butter, yet it’s also hearty enough to pair with savory sides, like this comforting Sweet Potato and Miso Soup for a balanced, nourishing meal.

What is Seeded Miso Sweet Potato Bread?

At its core, Seeded Miso Sweet Potato Bread is a rustic loaf that combines sweet and savory notes with a deeply satisfying texture. This variation uses roasted sweet potatoes and miso paste to create a flavor profile that’s richer than most standard bread recipes. The addition of seeds—think pumpkin, sunflower, or chia—adds a nutty crunch that makes each slice feel substantial and satisfying.

If you’re used to a classic sweet potato loaf, this version might surprise you. The miso’s umami quality is subtle but transformative, giving a savory edge that pairs well with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes. And, let’s be honest, the seeds add such a great texture and nutty flavor that it's hard to resist nibbling on the loaf straight out of the oven.

Whether you're new to baking or an experienced bread maker, this recipe is approachable yet interesting, and it’s the kind of loaf that can elevate simple meals or become a star on its own. So if you’re looking to bake something that goes beyond basic, this is the recipe for you.

Ingredients for Seeded Miso Sweet Potato Bread

Here’s a look at the ingredients needed to bring this bread to life and why each one is key to the perfect loaf.

1. Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Roasted sweet potatoes add natural sweetness and moisture, giving the bread a slightly soft, cake-like texture. Choose a fresh, orange-fleshed sweet potato for that vibrant color and gentle sweetness. Roasting the sweet potato beforehand intensifies its flavor, which complements the miso beautifully.

2. Miso Paste

Miso paste adds an unexpected savory depth. You can use white or yellow miso here; both offer a balanced, mild umami that doesn’t overpower the other flavors. If you’re unfamiliar with miso, check out this Homemade Miso Paste Recipe to learn more about making it from scratch. The miso also contributes to the bread’s moisture, enhancing its soft texture.

3. All-Purpose Flour

All-purpose flour provides the perfect base, giving the loaf structure without being too dense. You can substitute part of it with whole wheat flour if you want a heartier texture, though the classic version gives a lighter crumb.

4. Baking Powder and Baking Soda

These leavening agents ensure the bread rises just right. The baking powder gives a good lift, while baking soda balances the acidity in the miso, resulting in a nicely domed loaf.

5. Olive Oil

A small amount of olive oil adds richness without making the bread too dense. It also helps the loaf stay fresh longer and gives a slightly crisp crust when baked.

6. Buttermilk

Buttermilk brings a subtle tang and helps tenderize the loaf. It also complements the miso’s savory notes, creating a well-rounded flavor. If you’re out of buttermilk, a simple mix of milk and yogurt works well too.

7. Mixed Seeds (Pumpkin, Sunflower, Chia)

These seeds add texture, crunch, and visual appeal to the bread. Pumpkin and sunflower seeds add a nutty flavor, while chia seeds bring a satisfying crunch. For those looking for more ideas on working with seeds in bread, try our Seeded Whole Grain Bread recipe to experiment further.

Why You’ll Love This Seeded Miso Sweet Potato Bread

This bread has it all: unique flavor, nutrition, and versatility. It’s ideal for a cozy breakfast, an accompaniment to soup, or even a standalone snack. The roasted sweet potato adds natural sweetness without being cloying, while the miso paste lends that intriguing savory flavor that makes it stand out. And let’s not forget the health benefits—sweet potatoes are packed with vitamins, making this loaf a nutritious choice as well.

Whether you’re making this for family, friends, or a solo treat, this bread shines on any occasion. From holiday gatherings to quiet mornings with coffee, its warm, savory-sweet taste feels comforting yet unexpected, perfect for impressing guests or indulging yourself.

Perfect Pairings and Occasions

This Seeded Miso Sweet Potato Bread works wonderfully for brunch gatherings, cozy dinners, or as a unique offering at potlucks. With its balanced flavors, it pairs well with spreads, cheeses, or even a warm bowl of Miso Glazed Roasted Vegetables. Its rich flavor profile also makes it a great addition to any fall or winter spread, fitting right in with seasonal flavors and creating a warm, inviting feel.

In Japan, miso has long been appreciated for its health benefits and umami flavor, and pairing it with sweet potato in a bread brings a delightful fusion of flavors that could remind some of autumn harvests and homey meals. The seeds add a rustic, whole-grain appeal that echoes the health-focused bread recipes we love, such as our Guide to Baking with Alternative Flours, which you might enjoy as a next step in exploring nutritious baking options.

How to Make Seeded Miso Sweet Potato Bread

Let’s dive into the step-by-step process to make this bread at home. Don’t worry—it’s simpler than it sounds, and the results are well worth the effort!

Step 1: Roast the Sweet Potatoes

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Pierce a medium sweet potato with a fork, place it on a baking sheet, and roast for 45 minutes or until it’s tender.
• Let the sweet potato cool, then scoop out the flesh and mash it until smooth.

Roasting the sweet potato intensifies its natural sweetness, making the bread more flavorful. This step is key to achieving that earthy, slightly caramelized note that pairs so well with the miso.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

• In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and a pinch of salt.

Make sure your baking powder and soda are fresh for the best rise. The dry mix is straightforward, but it lays the groundwork for the bread’s soft crumb.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

• In a separate bowl, mix the roasted sweet potato, 1/4 cup of miso paste, 1/4 cup of honey or maple syrup, 1/3 cup of olive oil, and 1/2 cup of buttermilk.

These wet ingredients bring both moisture and flavor. The olive oil and buttermilk give a tender crumb, while the miso and sweet potato create a flavor harmony that’s earthy, sweet, and savory.

Step 4: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients Together

• Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as it can make the bread tough.

Step 5: Fold in the Seeds

• Fold in 1/4 cup of mixed seeds—pumpkin, sunflower, and chia are a great mix. Reserve a few to sprinkle on top for a rustic look.

Adding seeds inside and on top of the bread adds crunch and visual appeal. Feel free to experiment with other seeds if you like, but these three offer a balanced texture and flavor.

Step 6: Prepare the Loaf Pan and Add Toppings

• Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan with a bit of olive oil or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
• Pour the batter into the pan and spread it out evenly.
• Sprinkle the reserved seeds on top of the batter, pressing them down slightly so they stick during baking.

Adding seeds on top of the loaf gives a beautiful, rustic look and provides a nice crunch with each bite. You’ll also get that wonderful toasted seed flavor, which complements the savory-sweet taste of the bread perfectly.

Step 7: Bake the Bread

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Bake the bread for about 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Baking times can vary depending on your oven, so it’s always a good idea to check around the 50-minute mark. You’ll know it’s ready when the top has a golden brown crust and the kitchen fills with the aroma of roasted sweet potatoes and toasted seeds. Letting the bread bake fully will ensure it’s nicely set in the middle, while the exterior is perfectly crisp.

Step 8: Cool and Slice

• Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then carefully remove it and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Cooling is essential to let the loaf firm up, making it easier to slice and giving the flavors a chance to settle. The result is a loaf with a moist crumb, where each slice holds together beautifully.

Tips for Making the Perfect Seeded Miso Sweet Potato Bread

Here are a few extra tips to ensure your bread turns out perfectly every time:

1. Don’t Overmix
   When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a denser loaf with a tougher texture, which doesn’t suit the soft, tender crumb we’re aiming for here.

2. Choose Fresh, Quality Ingredients
   Fresh miso paste, high-quality seeds, and sweet potatoes will elevate the flavors. Fresh seeds are essential since old seeds can become bitter, affecting the overall taste.

3. Experiment with Seed Varieties
   For a more complex nutty flavor, feel free to add sesame seeds or flax seeds. If you want a lighter, fluffier loaf, you could even add a small amount of millet for added texture.

Why This Bread is a Perfect Choice for Gatherings

This Seeded Miso Sweet Potato Bread is ideal for various occasions. It’s versatile enough to serve at brunch with a spread of cheeses or as a unique side at dinner with Miso Glazed Roasted Vegetables. Its rich, complex flavors pair well with savory and sweet toppings alike—think creamy butter, a slice of smoked salmon, or even a drizzle of honey.

The bread’s mix of hearty and rustic flavors also makes it a great choice for holiday gatherings. The nutty seeds, paired with the autumnal flavors of sweet potato and miso, feel festive and comforting—perfect for cozy settings where friends and family can appreciate something homemade and special.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Storing

• Room Temperature: Store any leftover bread at room temperature, wrapped in a clean kitchen towel or parchment paper, for up to two days.
• Refrigeration: If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week, but keep in mind that it may lose a bit of its softness.
• Freezing: This bread freezes well. Slice it beforehand, then wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag. You can pop a slice directly in the toaster or oven to reheat.

Serving

This bread is at its best served warm. Toasted with a smear of salted butter or drizzled with a bit of honey, it’s absolutely divine. For a savory twist, try spreading a thin layer of cream cheese or pairing it with a hearty soup like Sweet Potato and Miso Soup. The flavors meld beautifully, giving you a complete, nourishing meal.

Variations to Try with Seeded Miso Sweet Potato Bread

If you’re ready to experiment, here are a few fun twists you can try with this recipe:

1. Spiced Sweet Potato Bread
   Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even smoked paprika to bring out warm, earthy tones. A dash of cinnamon works surprisingly well with miso and sweet potato, adding a cozy warmth that’s especially lovely in the colder months.

2. Cheesy Miso Sweet Potato Bread
   For a savory spin, add grated cheese to the batter. Sharp cheddar or Parmesan can enhance the umami flavor, making it even more satisfying. It’s a great option for savory snacking or as a side with soups and stews.

3. Herb-Infused Variation
   Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can add a whole new layer of flavor. Just chop them finely and fold them into the batter. This variation is especially good if you plan to serve the bread as a side with savory meals.

Nutritional Benefits of Seeded Miso Sweet Potato Bread

This loaf isn’t just tasty; it’s also packed with nutrients. Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins A and C, along with fiber that aids digestion. Seeds add a healthy dose of protein, essential fatty acids, and minerals like magnesium and zinc, which support immune function. Plus, miso offers probiotics that can be beneficial for gut health, especially when used in its raw form.

For those who are health-conscious but still want something comforting and delicious, this bread strikes a nice balance, giving you the best of both worlds.

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Seeded Miso Sweet Potato Bread Recipe

A cozy, flavorful bread blending the earthy richness of sweet potatoes, the umami punch of miso, and a delightful mix of toasted seeds for texture. Perfect for gatherings or a wholesome breakfast slice.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups mashed roasted sweet potatoes (about 2 medium potatoes)
• 1/4 cup white miso paste
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds, plus extra for topping
• 1/4 cup sunflower seeds, plus extra for topping
• 1/4 cup sesame seeds, plus extra for topping

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the mashed sweet potatoes, miso paste, olive oil, buttermilk, eggs, and maple syrup until smooth.
3. In a separate bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
5. Fold in the pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, and sesame seeds.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle additional seeds on top, pressing them down slightly.
7. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

15 minutes prep time with 60 minutes cook time.

Serves 8 and contains approximately 210 calories per serving.

American, Japanese / Bread, Snack

Rated 4.8 by 1223 reviewers.

Recipe Tags: seeded miso sweet potato bread recipe, sweet potato bread, miso bread, healthy bread recipes, sweet and savory bread, miso sweet potato loaf

Published by: Show Recipe

Common Issues and Solutions

Here are some common questions or issues you might face and how to troubleshoot them:

1. Why is My Bread Dense?
   A dense loaf is often the result of overmixing. Next time, try folding the ingredients more gently, mixing just until combined.

2. Why Didn’t My Bread Rise?
   Make sure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh. Additionally, measure ingredients carefully. Too much flour can make the bread heavy and prevent it from rising.

3. How Can I Make the Crust Softer?
   For a softer crust, cover the loaf with a clean kitchen towel right after it comes out of the oven. The trapped steam will help soften the exterior.

4. Can I Substitute Ingredients?
   Yes, but some swaps work better than others. For instance, if you’re out of buttermilk, try a mix of milk and a spoonful of yogurt. And if you’re missing seeds, you can leave them out or replace them with nuts like walnuts or almonds.

This Seeded Miso Sweet Potato Bread recipe brings together the best of both worlds—familiar, cozy flavors with an exciting twist. Every step, from roasting the sweet potatoes to sprinkling on those seeds, builds flavor and adds character to this unique bread. So, whether you’re making it for a gathering or a quiet breakfast at home, this bread promises to be a memorable addition to any meal.