Step 1

Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour an 8 x 4-inch or 9 x 5-inch loaf pan. Set aside.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sugar, oil, and eggs. Add mashed sweet potatoes and vanilla extract; whisk to combine. Sprinkle baking soda and salt over top; stir until well blended.

Step 3

Stir in flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves; be careful not to over-mix.

Step 4

Fold in the nuts, if using.

Step 5

Transfer batter to the prepared pan. Bake for 45-55 minutes for dark or nonstick pans or up to 60-70 minutes for glass, ceramic, or light pans. The bread is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Tent the loaf with foil during the final 15-20 minutes of baking if the top starts to get too dark.

Step 6

Remove the bread from the pan and cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.