Baked sweet potatoes with brown sugar are the perfect combination of savory and sweet, making them an excellent side dish or even a light dessert. This simple recipe brings out the natural sweetness of the potatoes, while the addition of brown sugar adds a caramelized, rich flavor that takes them to the next level. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious, comforting dish that’s also nutritious.
Why Sweet Potatoes?
Sweet potatoes are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. They are rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. Their natural sweetness makes them a versatile ingredient that can be paired with both savory and sweet flavors. Baking sweet potatoes brings out their soft, creamy texture, which pairs beautifully with the rich flavor of brown sugar and butter.
Ingredients for Baked Sweet Potatoes with Brown Sugar
4 medium sweet potatoes
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 tablespoons brown sugar (light or dark, depending on preference)
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
A pinch of salt
Optional toppings: chopped pecans, marshmallows, or a drizzle of maple syrup
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Preheat the oven. Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Wash the sweet potatoes. Rinse the sweet potatoes under cold water to remove any dirt, then pat them dry with a towel. There’s no need to peel them, as the skin will soften during baking.
Pierce the potatoes. Use a fork to poke several holes in each sweet potato to allow steam to escape while they bake.
Step 2: Bake the Sweet Potatoes
Bake the potatoes. Place the sweet potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet. Bake for 45-60 minutes, depending on their size, until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
Check for doneness. The sweet potatoes are ready when the skin is slightly wrinkled and they feel soft to the touch.
Step 3: Prepare the Brown Sugar Topping
Melt the butter. While the sweet potatoes are baking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat or in the microwave.
Mix in the brown sugar. Stir the brown sugar, cinnamon (if using), and a pinch of salt into the melted butter until well combined.
Step 4: Finish and Serve
Split the sweet potatoes. Once the sweet potatoes are baked and soft, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Cut each sweet potato down the center, leaving the bottom intact.
Add the topping. Gently open the sweet potatoes and drizzle the brown sugar-butter mixture inside each one. Use a fork to lightly mash the interior of the potatoes so the mixture can seep into the flesh.
Optional toppings. For added texture and flavor, sprinkle chopped pecans or marshmallows over the sweet potatoes and return them to the oven for a few minutes until the marshmallows are golden and toasted.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve hot. Baked sweet potatoes with brown sugar are best served warm, allowing the butter and sugar to melt into the soft, fluffy interior.
Optional drizzle. For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle a bit of maple syrup over the top just before serving.
Tips for the Best Baked Sweet Potatoes
Choose the right potatoes:
Look for sweet potatoes that are medium-sized and uniform in shape for even baking. Avoid any with soft spots or blemishes.
Don’t overbake:
While you want the potatoes to be soft, be careful not to overbake them as they can become mushy.
Brown sugar types:
Light brown sugar adds a mild caramel flavor, while dark brown sugar gives a deeper, molasses-like sweetness. Choose according to your preference.
Variations
Savory option:
For a savory twist, skip the brown sugar and cinnamon and add a topping of butter, sour cream, and chives.
Spiced version:
Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the brown sugar mixture for a more spiced flavor.
Crispy skin:
For crispy skin, rub the outside of the sweet potatoes with olive oil and salt before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Baked sweet potatoes with brown sugar make a great side dish for holiday meals, especially Thanksgiving, where they pair beautifully with roasted turkey, ham, or stuffing. They’re also a comforting addition to weeknight dinners, served alongside grilled chicken or pork chops. For a sweet, dessert-like version, add marshmallows or pecans and enjoy as a cozy treat.
Conclusion
Baked sweet potatoes with brown sugar are a simple, delicious, and comforting dish that brings out the best in this nutrient-rich vegetable. Whether you enjoy them as a sweet side dish or a light dessert, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. The soft, creamy sweet potatoes, combined with the rich, buttery brown sugar topping, create a mouthwatering balance of flavors that’s hard to resist. Enjoy the warmth and sweetness of this delightful dish!
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