A Comforting, Velvety Soup with a Citrus Twist
Thereβs something incredibly comforting about a bowl of creamy, homemade soup. And when that soup is made with sweet potatoes, fresh orange zest, and a hint of ginger, it transforms into something truly special.
This Sweet Potato Soup with Orange Zest is one of our favorite go-to recipes for chilly evenings. Itβs smooth, naturally sweet, and has a bright citrus note that keeps every spoonful exciting. Plus, itβs vegan, gluten-free, and packed with nutrientsβso itβs as nourishing as it is delicious!
π Why Sweet Potatoes Make the Best Soup
Sweet potatoes are naturally rich, creamy, and packed with vitamins. Theyβre high in fiber, antioxidants, and beta-carotene, making them a great immune boosterβespecially during the colder months.

How We Discovered This Flavor Combination
The first time we made this soup, we were actually trying to repurpose leftover sweet potatoes from a holiday meal. We had some fresh oranges on the counter, so we decided to experiment with a citrus twist.
And wowβthe results were incredible! The orange zest added just the right amount of brightness, balancing the natural sweetness of the potatoes. Since then, this has become a staple recipe in our kitchen, especially when we need something warm, cozy, and nourishing.
π Whatβs So Special About Orange Zest?
Orange zest brings a pop of citrus flavor without overpowering the dish. It adds a slight freshness that makes the soup feel lighter and more complex.
The Secret to a Velvety-Smooth Texture
The best part of this soup? That ultra-creamy texture! Hereβs how to achieve it:
βοΈ Use an immersion blender for a silky-smooth consistency.
βοΈ Let the soup cool slightly before blendingβthis prevents splattering.
βοΈ Add a splash of coconut milk for extra richness.
If you love soups that feel like a warm hug, this one is for you!
π₯ Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time? Absolutely!
This soup stores beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days. Simply reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to loosen it up.
The Perfect Balance of Sweet & Spicy
While the sweet potatoes bring natural sweetness, we love adding a bit of ginger and cumin for a warm, slightly spicy kick. The flavors blend beautifully, creating a soup thatβs both comforting and refreshing.
And if you love spice, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepperβit gives just the right amount of heat!
π₯ Want Extra Depth of Flavor? Roast Your Sweet Potatoes!
Instead of boiling the sweet potatoes, try roasting them at 400Β°F (200Β°C) for 25 minutes. This brings out even more rich, caramelized flavors.
How to Serve This Sweet Potato & Orange Zest Soup
This soup is delicious on its own, but we love pairing it with:
π₯ Crusty sourdough bread for dipping.
π₯ A light green salad with a citrus vinaigrette.
πΏ Toasted pumpkin seeds or pine nuts for a crunchy topping.
π₯Ά Can I Freeze This Soup? Yes!
Store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight and reheat gently on the stove.
Ready to Cook? Hereβs the Full Recipe! π π
This Sweet Potato Soup with Orange Zest is easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for meal prepping. Letβs get cooking!

π Why Youβll Love This Recipe
βοΈ Itβs naturally creamy & dairy-free.
βοΈ The orange zest adds a unique, refreshing twist.
βοΈ Super easy to make & meal-prep friendly.
βοΈ Warm, comforting, and packed with nutrients!
We hope you enjoy this recipe as much as we do! If you try it, be sure to tag us on Instagram or leave a commentβwe love seeing your creations. Happy cooking! π ππ
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 2 large sweet potatoes peeled and cubed
- 1 small onion diced
- 1 tbsp olive oil or vegan butter
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger grated
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup fresh orange juice about 2 oranges
- 1 tsp orange zest
- Β½ tsp ground cinnamon
- Β½ tsp ground cumin
- Salt & black pepper to taste
For Garnishing (Optional):
- A swirl of coconut cream
- Toasted pumpkin seeds or chopped nuts
- Fresh parsley or cilantro chopped
- Extra orange zest
Instructions
- SautΓ© the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion and sautΓ© until soft (about 3 minutes).
- Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
- Cook the Sweet Potatoes: Add the sweet potatoes, cinnamon, and cumin, stirring to coat.
- Pour in the vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer for 15 minutes or until sweet potatoes are soft.
- Blend Until Smooth: Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Use an immersion blender to puree until smooth (or blend in batches using a regular blender).
- Add Citrus Flavor: Stir in the fresh orange juice and orange zest, mixing well.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve & Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and drizzle with coconut cream.
- Top with toasted pumpkin seeds, fresh herbs, or extra orange zest for added texture and flavor.
Notes
- Make It Extra Creamy: Blend in Β½ cup coconut milk for an ultra-rich texture.
- Prefer a Spicy Kick? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.
- Make It Ahead: This soup stores beautifullyβkeep it in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Pairing Idea: Serve with crusty bread or a light green salad for a complete meal.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sweet Potato Soup with Orange Zest π π
π₯ Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes! This soup stores beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days. Simply reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to loosen it up if needed.
π₯Ά Can I Freeze This Soup?
Absolutely! Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop.
π Is the Orange Flavor Strong?
Not at all! The orange zest and juice add a subtle brightness without overpowering the soup. Itβs a gentle citrus note that complements the sweet potatoes beautifully.
πΏ Can I Add More Spices?
Of course! If you love extra spice, try adding:
βοΈ Cayenne pepper for a little heat.
βοΈ Smoked paprika for a smoky depth.
βοΈ Curry powder for an Indian-inspired twist.
π₯ How Can I Make This Soup Extra Creamy?
For an even silkier texture, try:
βοΈ Adding coconut milk or plant-based cream.
βοΈ Using a high-powered blender for a super smooth consistency.
βοΈ Roasting the sweet potatoes first for a richer, caramelized flavor.
π What Should I Serve With This Soup?
This soup pairs perfectly with:
π₯ Crusty bread or warm pita for dipping.
π₯ A fresh green salad with citrus dressing.
πΏ Toasted pumpkin seeds for crunch.
π§ Can I Use Pre-Cooked Sweet Potatoes?
Yes! If you have leftover roasted or steamed sweet potatoes, just blend them with broth and spicesβit makes the process even faster!
π‘ Have More Questions?
Weβre happy to help! Drop a comment below or tag us on Instagram with your soup creations. Happy cooking! π ππ₯π
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