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Creamy Maple & Brown Butter Mashed Sweet Potatoes

A close-up of fluffy, bright orange mashed sweet potatoes served on a simple white plate.

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Make the best mashed sweet potatoes with this easy recipe for a creamy, comforting side dish perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday feasts.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled and quartered
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lower fat)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • Pinch of black pepper

Instructions

  1. Place the peeled and quartered sweet potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold, salted water.
  2. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to maintain a steady simmer. Cook until the potatoes are very tender, about 15 to 20 minutes.
  3. Drain the potatoes completely. Return them to the hot, empty pot and let them sit for 1 minute to allow excess moisture to evaporate.
  4. While the potatoes cook, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Continue cooking, swirling occasionally, until the butter foams, then develops brown bits at the bottom and smells nutty. This is brown butter. Remove from heat immediately.
  5. Add the brown butter, maple syrup, heavy cream, cinnamon, salt, and pepper to the drained sweet potatoes.
  6. Mash the mixture using a potato masher or an electric mixer until you achieve a smooth, creamy texture. Do not overmix if using an electric mixer.
  7. Taste and adjust salt or maple syrup as needed. Serve immediately as a perfect Thanksgiving side dish or comfort food side dish.

Notes

  • For an extra fluffy sweet potato mash, use a potato ricer instead of a masher.
  • If you prefer a savory mashed sweet potatoes variation, omit the maple syrup and cinnamon, and add 1 clove of roasted garlic and 1 tablespoon of sour cream.
  • This recipe is a great alternative to sweet potato casserole.

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