Flaky Southern Sweet Potato Biscuits with a Hint of Spice

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There’s something undeniably comforting about warm, buttery biscuits—especially when they’re infused with the natural sweetness and vibrant color of mashed sweet potatoes. These Southern-style Sweet Potato Biscuits bring flaky layers and a touch of cinnamon and nutmeg to your table, elevating a classic side dish with a flavorful, seasonal twist.

Perfect for holiday feasts, weekend brunches, or cozy family dinners, these biscuits are both simple to make and impressive to serve. Whether topped with honey butter, cranberry sauce, or savory gravy, they’re a versatile and crowd-pleasing addition to any menu. Get ready to fall in love with this comforting, golden brown bite of goodness.

Full Recipe:

2 cups all-purpose flour
¼ cup brown sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
½ teaspoon kosher salt
6 tablespoons unsalted butter (cold, grated)
⅔ cup whole milk
¾ cup mashed sweet potato (from 1 small sweet potato)

Directions:

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a large bowl, mix the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
Grate cold butter using the large holes of a cheese grater. Work the butter into the flour mix with your hands until crumbly.
Whisk the mashed sweet potato with the milk. Pour into the flour mixture and stir just until combined.
On a floured surface, turn out the dough. Fold it over 3–4 times, pressing it flat each time.
Roll the dough to 1–2 inches thick. Cut into 10 rounds using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 17–18 minutes, or until golden brown.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 18 minutes | Total Time: 33 minutes
Kcal: 202 kcal | Servings: 10 biscuits

History and Origin

Sweet potato biscuits are a Southern classic, rooted in the heart of American culinary traditions. Biscuits, in general, have been a staple of Southern cuisine for centuries, with early recipes dating back to the 18th century. The term “biscuit” in the United States refers to what is known as a “scone” in the UK, and the recipe was adapted from European baking techniques to suit the ingredients available in the New World.

Sweet potato biscuits, specifically, are a more modern variation of the classic Southern biscuit, often associated with the fall and holiday seasons. Sweet potatoes themselves have a long history in the American South, where they have been cultivated for centuries. Native to the Americas, sweet potatoes were a vital food source for indigenous peoples and later became a central ingredient in Southern cuisine.

The combination of sweet potatoes and biscuits became popular due to the growing interest in adding sweet, earthy flavors to traditionally savory baked goods. The addition of sweet potatoes not only lends the biscuits a beautiful golden color but also enhances the flavor, making the biscuits slightly sweeter and adding a soft texture. These biscuits are often seen at holiday tables, particularly at Thanksgiving, where they are served alongside turkey, gravy, and other comfort foods.

Variations and Adaptations

While the basic sweet potato biscuit recipe is fairly simple, there are many variations and adaptations to cater to different tastes and dietary needs. Some variations include:

Savory Sweet Potato Biscuits: For those who prefer a less sweet biscuit, adding ingredients like shredded cheese, fresh herbs (like rosemary or thyme), or even bacon can create a savory version. This adaptation makes the biscuits perfect for breakfast or brunch when paired with eggs and sausage.
Sweet Potato Biscuits with Candied Pecans: To elevate the sweetness and add a delightful crunch, some recipes incorporate chopped candied pecans or other nuts. The pecans add an extra layer of flavor and texture, making these biscuits a great choice for dessert or as a side dish with a hearty meal.
Gluten-Free Sweet Potato Biscuits: For those with dietary restrictions, a gluten-free version of sweet potato biscuits can be made by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. While the texture may differ slightly, the result is still delicious and suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Vegan Sweet Potato Biscuits: Traditional sweet potato biscuits are made with butter and milk, but vegan alternatives can easily be made using plant-based butter and non-dairy milk. These biscuits are just as fluffy and flavorful, allowing everyone to enjoy them, regardless of dietary preference.
Sweet Potato Biscuits with Maple Glaze: For a more indulgent twist, some recipes call for drizzling a sweet maple glaze over the biscuits after they are baked. The glaze adds an extra layer of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the spices in the biscuit dough.

Across the Southern United States, you’ll find slight regional variations in how these biscuits are made. In some areas, biscuits are served as a side dish, while in others, they might be turned into a decadent dessert when paired with whipped cream or fruit preserves.

Nutritional Information

Sweet potato biscuits, like many baked goods, are best enjoyed in moderation, but they can offer several nutritional benefits due to the presence of sweet potatoes. Here’s a breakdown of the general nutritional profile for a typical sweet potato biscuit:

Calories: A single biscuit typically contains around 200-220 calories.
Carbohydrates: Sweet potatoes provide a natural source of complex carbohydrates, which are essential for energy. A biscuit can contain about 30 grams of carbs.
Protein: Each biscuit contains around 4 grams of protein, thanks to the flour and milk used in the recipe.
Fat: Sweet potato biscuits tend to be rich in fats, particularly butter or other fat-based ingredients, with around 8 grams of fat per biscuit.
Fiber: Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of dietary fiber, with one biscuit providing approximately 1 gram of fiber.
Vitamins and Minerals: Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamin A, providing a significant percentage of the daily recommended intake. They also contain vitamin C, potassium, and a small amount of iron.

While these biscuits are not a low-calorie food, they offer a much-needed source of vitamins, especially vitamin A, which supports eye health and immune function. If you’re looking to lower the calorie count or make the biscuits healthier, you can reduce the amount of butter or use alternative ingredients like coconut oil.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Sweet potato biscuits are wonderfully versatile and can be served in a variety of ways to complement any meal. Here are some creative ideas for serving them:

With Thanksgiving Dinner: These biscuits make a perfect accompaniment to your Thanksgiving meal. Serve them alongside roasted turkey and gravy, or with a side of cranberry sauce for a sweet and savory contrast.
For Breakfast or Brunch: Sweet potato biscuits are great for breakfast or brunch, served with a dollop of honey butter, jam, or even a spread of whipped cream and cinnamon.
With Soups and Stews: Their light, fluffy texture makes them a great pairing for hearty soups and stews. The biscuits can be torn and dunked into rich, flavorful broths for a comforting meal.
As a Snack: When enjoyed as a snack, sweet potato biscuits are best served warm. Pair them with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat.
With a Sweet Glaze: If you have a sweet tooth, try brushing your biscuits with a maple glaze or honey after baking. This adds an extra layer of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the spices in the biscuit dough.

Tips and Tricks for Success

Use Cold Ingredients: For the flakiest biscuits, ensure that your butter and milk are both cold. This helps create the layers of flaky texture that biscuits are known for.
Don’t Overwork the Dough: When mixing the dough, be gentle. Overworking it can lead to tough biscuits. Simply mix until the ingredients are just combined.
Fold the Dough: To create flaky layers, turn the dough out onto a floured surface and fold it over 3–4 times before rolling it out. This process encourages layering, which leads to a better texture in the final biscuit.
Use a Biscuit Cutter: For perfectly round biscuits, use a biscuit cutter or the rim of a glass to cut the dough. Avoid twisting the cutter, as this can seal the edges of the biscuits and prevent them from rising properly.
Bake Until Golden: Keep an eye on your biscuits as they bake. They should be golden brown on top, and slightly firm when touched.

Potential Health Benefits

Sweet potato biscuits offer several health benefits thanks to the inclusion of sweet potatoes, which are packed with nutrients:

Rich in Vitamin A: Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of vitamin A, which is essential for maintaining good vision, skin health, and immune function.
Supports Digestive Health: The fiber content in sweet potatoes aids in digestion and helps maintain healthy gut function.
High in Antioxidants: Sweet potatoes are rich in antioxidants, which can help protect the body from oxidative stress and inflammation.
Supports Blood Sugar Regulation: Sweet potatoes have a relatively low glycemic index compared to other starchy foods, making them a good choice for stabilizing blood sugar levels.

Conclusion

Sweet potato biscuits are more than just a side dish—they’re a deliciously comforting treat that combines the heartiness of Southern biscuits with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes. Whether served at a holiday dinner, for brunch, or as a snack, these biscuits are sure to be a hit with friends and family. The warmth and flavor they bring to the table are perfect for any occasion, and with their ease of preparation, they’ll become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Try them today and enjoy a taste of Southern comfort with a modern twist!