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Creamy Sweet Mashed Potatoes Recipe

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4.8 from 87 reviews

This creamy sweet mashed potatoes recipe offers a luscious, rich twist on traditional mashed potatoes using sweet potatoes, butter, and warm cream. Enhanced with subtle hints of maple syrup, cinnamon, and optional add-ins like vanilla and orange zest, this dish is perfect for holiday dinners or cozy meals. The smooth yet plush texture is achieved through careful mashing techniques, resulting in a deliciously comforting side that’s easily customizable with savory or sweet garnishes.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 3 lb sweet potatoes peeled and cut into 1.5-inch chunks
  • 1 tbsp kosher salt for boiling water
  • 6 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 0.5 cup heavy cream or half-and-half warmed
  • 2 tbsp maple syrup or brown sugar to taste; add more if desired
  • 0.5 tsp fine sea salt plus more to taste
  • 0.25 tsp ground cinnamon

Optional Add-Ins & Garnish

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
  • 1 tsp orange zest (optional)
  • 2 tbsp cream cheese (optional, for extra body or to thicken)
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper (optional, for savory tilt)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for savory finish)
  • 0.5 cup toasted pecans (optional, for serving)
  • 2 tbsp chives (optional, chopped, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Peel and cut the sweet potatoes into even 1.5-inch chunks to ensure uniform cooking. Rinse them briefly to remove surface starch which helps maintain a clean texture.
  2. Boil the Potatoes: Place the sweet potato chunks in a large pot, cover with cold water by about 1 inch, and add 1 tablespoon kosher salt. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 12 to 15 minutes until the potatoes are very tender when pierced with a fork.
  3. Drain and Dry: Drain the potatoes thoroughly. Return them to the still-warm pot over low heat and stir for 1 to 2 minutes to evaporate any remaining moisture. This step prevents watery mashed potatoes and ensures a plush final texture.
  4. Warm the Dairy: In a small saucepan or microwave, warm the heavy cream (or half-and-half) and butter together until the butter is melted. This warm dairy mixture blends smoothly into the potatoes and helps keep the dish hot.
  5. Mash the Potatoes: Mash the sweet potatoes by hand with a potato masher for a rustic texture or use a ricer for an ultra-smooth consistency. Avoid using a food processor or blender to prevent a gummy consistency.
  6. Add Flavor and Creaminess: Pour the warm dairy mixture into the mashed potatoes, then add 2 tablespoons maple syrup or brown sugar, 0.5 teaspoon fine sea salt, and 0.25 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Stir gently until creamy and well combined. Taste and adjust the sweetness and salt levels to preference. At this stage, add optional vanilla extract or orange zest if desired for extra aroma and flavor complexity.
  7. Finish and Garnish: Swirl in a final pat of butter for richness. For a savory variation, stir in black pepper and drizzle olive oil. Garnish with toasted pecans and/or chopped chives for added texture and color.
  8. Storage and Reheating: Store leftover mashed sweet potatoes in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk, or microwave in short bursts stirring in between. For larger gatherings, you can rewarm covered in a 300°F oven for 20 to 30 minutes.

Notes

  • Use evenly sized chunks of sweet potatoes to ensure uniform cooking.
  • Warming the cream and butter before adding to potatoes helps maintain a smooth and hot consistency.
  • Avoid using a food processor to mash potatoes as it can create a gummy texture.
  • Feel free to customize sweetness by adjusting maple syrup or brown sugar to taste.
  • Optional ingredients like vanilla extract, orange zest, cream cheese, or olive oil add layers of flavor and texture.
  • Store leftovers properly and reheat gently to preserve the creamy texture.
  • For a savory version, omit sweeteners and add black pepper and olive oil.

Find it online: https://mealoria.com/creamy-sweet-mashed-potatoes-recipe/