Description

There’s something undeniably comforting about sweet potatoes baked with brown sugar, butter, and warm spices. Brown Sugar Sweet Potato Dream is perfect for cozy evenings at home, family dinners, or any occasion when you want a side dish that feels indulgent yet wholesome. The caramelized top and tender, flavorful layers make it irresistible. This recipe is inspired by traditional home cooking, where simple ingredients create a dish that brings warmth and nostalgia to the table. Its subtle sweetness and rich aroma are sure to delight both family and guests alike.

Ingredients

Scale

4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into ½-inch rounds
½ cup brown sugar, packed
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
½ teaspoon salt
¼ cup heavy cream or milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional topping: ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
Peel and slice the sweet potatoes into evenly sized rounds to ensure uniform cooking.
In a medium bowl, combine brown sugar, melted butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and fully incorporated.
Arrange half of the sweet potato slices in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. Spoon half of the brown sugar mixture over the first layer, spreading it evenly. Repeat with the remaining sweet potatoes and brown sugar mixture.
Pour the cream over the top layer to add moisture and create a silky texture.
Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20–25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
If using nuts, sprinkle them over the top during the last 10 minutes of baking to toast lightly and add crunch.
Allow the dish to cool for 5–10 minutes before serving. This helps the sweet potatoes absorb the flavors and makes slicing easier.

Notes

You can prepare this dish a day ahead and refrigerate it before baking. Add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time if chilled.
Orange-fleshed sweet potatoes work best for natural sweetness and tender texture.
Substitute heavy cream with milk or plant-based milk if desired.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
For a slightly spiced variation, add a pinch of ground ginger or allspice to the brown sugar mixture.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50–55 minutes