Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5-inch (23x13 cm) loaf pan, or line with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the long sides for easy removal.
Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the mashed sweet potato, melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground ginger, and ground cloves. This forms your blend of sweet potato bread spices.
Step 4: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing with a spatula or wooden spoon only until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a tough bread. A few streaks of flour are acceptable.
Step 5: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. You can optionally sprinkle a tablespoon of granulated sugar on top for a lightly crisp crust.
Step 6: Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a wooden skewer or toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean. If the top begins to brown too quickly, loosely tent the loaf with aluminum foil.
Step 7: Remove the sweet potato bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes. This allows the bread to set before you remove it.
Step 8: Carefully remove the bread from the pan and transfer it to the wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving. Cooling completely helps ensure the best texture.