Why You’ll Love this Smashed Sweet Potato Recipe
If you’re looking for a delightful side dish that’s both comforting and nutritious, you’re going to love this smashed sweet potato recipe. It’s packed with flavor, thanks to the natural sweetness of the potatoes and a hint of cinnamon.
I adore how creamy and rich the texture becomes, especially when I add a touch of butter and cream. Plus, it’s so easy to prepare! Just bake the sweet potatoes until they’re tender, mash them up, and mix in a little honey for that extra sweetness.
It’s a dish that feels indulgent but is still wholesome. Whether you serve it at a holiday gathering or a casual weeknight dinner, it’s sure to impress everyone around the table. Trust me, you won’t regret it!
Ingredients of Smashed Sweet Potato
When it comes to creating a comforting side dish, you can’t go wrong with smashed sweet potatoes. They’re not just delicious; they’re also packed with nutrients and are super easy to make.
Seriously, who doesn’t love the aroma of sweet potatoes baking in the oven? It’s like a warm hug for your kitchen. Now, let’s explore what you need to whip up this tasty treat.
Ingredients for Cinnamon Honey Smashed Sweet Potato:
- 6 sweet potatoes or yams
- 1/4 lb butter (grass-fed if you can)
- 1/2 cup whipping cream (again, go for the grass-fed kind)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (the magic spice)
- 1 tablespoon honey (for that lovely sweetness)
Now, let’s talk about the ingredients a bit. First off, feel free to use either sweet potatoes or yams; they both work beautifully in this recipe.
The butter and whipping cream are what give this dish its rich and creamy texture, so don’t skimp on those. If you’re feeling adventurous, you might even swap in some coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative.
And the cinnamon and honey? They’re a match made in heaven, bringing out the natural sweetness of the potatoes. This recipe is forgiving, so adjust the honey to your liking—more for a sweeter taste or less if you want to keep it on the savory side.
Trust your taste buds; they know what they want!
How to Make Smashed Sweet Potato
Making Cinnamon Honey Smashed Sweet Potatoes is a delightful and straightforward process that’ll have your kitchen smelling like a cozy autumn day.
First things first, preheat your oven to a toasty 400 degrees. While it warms up, grab those 6 sweet potatoes or yams and give them a quick rinse. You want them nice and clean, as we’re keeping the skins on for baking. Place them on a baking sheet and pop them in the oven for about 90 minutes. Yes, it sounds like a long time, but trust me—it’s worth the wait. You’ll know they’re done when a fork slides in easily, as if they were made of butter. Can you smell that? It’s the sweet potato magic happening.
Once they’re perfectly baked and soft, let them cool for a few minutes. You don’t want to burn your fingers, right? Carefully cut each potato in half and squeeze the cooked flesh into a food processor—it’s a bit like squeezing toothpaste, but much tastier.
Now, here comes the fun part: add in 1/4 lb of grass-fed butter and pulse until it’s all creamy and dreamy. Then, pour in 1/2 cup of whipping cream, sprinkle in 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and drizzle in 1 tablespoon of honey. You might find yourself sneaking a taste or two; it’s hard to resist. Blend until everything is perfectly mixed, and if you don’t have a food processor, don’t worry. A high-powered cake mixer will do the trick, just be ready for some potential splatters.
Now, transfer your luscious sweet potato mixture into a glass 1-quart baking dish. This is where it gets a little fancy. You’ll want to heat it up in the oven for another 5 minutes at 400 degrees. This step is optional but totally worth it if you want those flavors to meld together beautifully.
Once it’s piping hot, serve it up—maybe with a sprinkle of extra cinnamon on top if you’re feeling fancy. There you have it, a warm, comforting side dish that’s sure to impress your family or friends. Or just yourself, because let’s be honest, sometimes the best dinner date is with your own delicious creation. Enjoy!
Smashed Sweet Potato Substitutions & Variations
After you’ve whipped up that delicious batch of Cinnamon Honey Smashed Sweet Potatoes, you might want to explore some fun substitutions and variations to keep things exciting.
If you’re out of sweet potatoes, try using butternut squash for a different flavor profile. Want a creamier texture? Swap the whipping cream for coconut milk. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger alongside the cinnamon.
If you’re looking to reduce sugar, use maple syrup instead of honey. You can even toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
Experimenting with these variations not only keeps your dish fresh but also lets you tailor it to your taste preferences. Happy cooking!
What to Serve with Smashed Sweet Potato
While cinnamon honey smashed sweet potatoes are a delightful dish on their own, pairing them with the right accompaniments can elevate your meal to the next level.
I love serving them alongside roasted chicken or a savory pork dish; the sweetness of the potatoes complements the savory flavors beautifully.
For a vegetarian option, grilled vegetables or a hearty salad with nuts and cranberries work wonders.
If you want to keep it simple, a protein-packed option like black beans can add a nice contrast.
Don’t forget to drizzle a little extra honey or even a sprinkle of feta cheese for an added burst of flavor.
These combinations create a satisfying and balanced meal that I know you’ll enjoy!
Additional Tips & Notes
When you’re enjoying cinnamon honey smashed sweet potatoes, keep in mind a few tips to enhance the experience.
First, use organic sweet potatoes or yams for the best flavor and nutrition. If you want a creamier texture, consider adding a touch more whipping cream or even a splash of milk. For an extra kick, sprinkle a pinch of nutmeg or ginger along with the cinnamon.
Don’t forget to taste as you mix; adjust the sweetness with more honey if you prefer.
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can reheat them in the oven or microwave, making them a convenient side dish anytime!
Enjoy!