
Creamy, Sweet, and Soul-Warming — These Grits Are Built Different
If regular grits are comfort food, then these Sweet Potato Grits with Spiced Butter are full-on therapy in a bowl. Rich with warm milk, brown sugar, and orange bitters, this recipe combines mashed yams with creamy grits for a dish that’s sweet, savory, and full of Southern soul. Topped with a homemade cinnamon-spiced butter that melts into every bite, it’s the kind of recipe that makes you close your eyes and hum.
Ingredients
For the Grits:
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup grits
- 1 cooked sweet potato or yam, mashed
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- ½ cup heavy cream
- Pinch of salt
For the Spiced Butter:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 dash orange bitters
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Yam Mixture
- In a small pan over low heat, melt brown sugar into a splash of warm milk.
- Add in the mashed sweet potato, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt.
- Whisk everything together until smooth and warmed through. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Grits
- In a separate pot, bring the remaining milk to a simmer over medium heat.
- Gradually stir in the grits, whisking to prevent lumps.
- Cook until thick and creamy, about 10–15 minutes, stirring frequently.
Step 3: Combine
- Once grits are fully cooked, stir in the yam mixture.
- Mix thoroughly until the sweet potato is fully incorporated and the grits are smooth and velvety.

Step 4: Make the Spiced Butter
- In a small bowl, soften butter and mix in orange bitters and cinnamon.
- Whip with a fork until fluffy and combined.

Step 5: Serve
- Spoon the sweet potato grits into serving bowls.
- Top with a dollop of spiced butter and let it melt into the grits.
- Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or orange zest.

Pro Tips and Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside fried catfish, shrimp, or roasted vegetables for a soul food brunch.
- Make it sweeter with maple syrup or a dash of vanilla extract.
- Use stone-ground grits for extra texture and flavor.
- Double the butter recipe and keep it on hand for biscuits, pancakes, or cornbread.
About the Creator
Chef Jay blends Southern tradition with modern soul on every plate. Known for rich flavors and cultural flair, he turns comfort food into culinary experiences with just the right amount of edge.
Follow @chefjay_la on Instagram.
Chef Jay | chefjay_la