Recipe of the Month: Sweet Potato Casserole with a Hint of Cinnamon and Nutmeg

 

Hey there, Maven! December is the perfect time to treat yourself and your guests to a warm, comforting dish that feels like a big holiday hug. This Southern-inspired Sweet Potato Casserole is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. It's creamy, sweet, and spiced with just the right hint of cinnamon and nutmeg to bring the holiday vibes home. Whether you're wowing your guests or indulging yourself, this dish is a guaranteed winner!

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Ingredients

For the sweet potato base:

• 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Pinch of salt

For the topping:

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
• 1 cup mini marshmallows (optional but recommended for extra indulgence!)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the cubed sweet potatoes and cook for about 15 minutes or until tender. Drain well.

Step 2: Mash the Sweet Potatoes
3. Transfer the cooked sweet potatoes to a large mixing bowl. Mash them until smooth using a potato masher or electric mixer.
4. Add the softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, milk, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Mix until everything is well combined and creamy.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
5. Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.

Step 4: Make the Topping
6. In a small bowl, mix the flour, brown sugar, and melted butter until crumbly. Stir in the chopped pecans if using.
7. Sprinkle the topping mixture evenly over the sweet potato base. If you’re using marshmallows, add them on top of the pecan mixture.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the marshmallows are toasted to perfection.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
9. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. It pairs beautifully with roasted meats or can stand alone as a decadent dessert.

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Tips for the Perfect Sweet Potato Casserole

1. Choose the right potatoes: Look for sweet potatoes with a deep orange flesh—they’re naturally sweeter and creamier.
2. Get creative with toppings: Not a fan of pecans or marshmallows? Try crushed gingersnap cookies or a drizzle of maple syrup.
3. Make it ahead: You can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate before baking, then pop it in the oven when you're ready to serve.

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This Sweet Potato Casserole is sure to steal the spotlight at your holiday table. It's a delightful mix of sweet, creamy, and crunchy—everything a Southern-inspired dish should be.

Question for You:
What’s your favorite holiday side dish? Let me know in the comments, or tag me on social media when you try this recipe. I’d love to see your creations!

Wishing you sweet and spiced holiday moments,
Trina