Thanksgiving Delight: Creamy Maple Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Maple mashed sweet potatoes are a delightful side dish combining the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with maple syrup's rich, creamy flavor. It's a personal favorite, perfect for dinner parties or holiday gatherings. The mix of tender sweet potatoes, butter, and cinnamon creates a comforting, indulgent dish.

This recipe intrigued me with its use of maple syrup in mashed sweet potatoes. Initially using brown sugar, I found maple syrup's distinct flavor adds a unique depth of sweetness. It's not overly sweet but has a subtle maple hint.

I learned the importance of fresh herbs in this dish. Adding fresh thyme or rosemary elevates it, balancing the sweetness and making a significant difference.

Ingredients

Sweet potatoes — 4 medium-sized, peeled and cube
Butter — 4 tablespoons, unsalted
Maple syrup — 1/4 cup
Heavy cream — 1/4 cup
Cinnamon — 1/2 teaspoon
Salt — 1/2 teaspoon

Instructions

Boil peeled, cubed sweet potatoes until fork-tender (15-20 minutes).
Drain and add butter, maple syrup, heavy cream, cinnamon, and salt.
Mash until smooth, avoiding overmixing.
Adjust seasoning with more salt or maple syrup if desired.
Serve garnished with maple syrup and fresh thyme or rosemary.

Substitutions

Maple syrup — Substitute with honey or brown sugar.
Heavy cream — Use whole milk or coconut milk for a lighter or dairy-free option.
Cinnamon — Experiment with nutmeg or allspice.

Dietary Restrictions

Gluten-free — Naturally gluten-free.
Vegetarian — Suitable for vegetarians.

Variations

Savory twist — Omit syrup and cinnamon; add garlic powder, fresh herbs, and black pepper.
Crunchy topping — Add toasted pecans or crispy bacon bits.