South Carolina Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are baked with a fragrant blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, brown sugar, and butter, creating a comforting side perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut sweet potatoes into quarters and boil until tender.
- Remove skins and mash the sweet potatoes.
- Combine hot mashed sweet potatoes (about 3 cups) with sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, butter, and beaten eggs; beat well.
- Put the mixture into a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Mix brown sugar, flour, and butter to make a topping and sprinkle over the potatoes.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or cream when mashing the sweet potatoes. If you're out of cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice can work as a substitute. You can also replace the butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free version. Remember to taste the mixture before baking, adjusting sugar levels to your preference.
Serving Suggestions
This sweet potato dish pairs beautifully with roasted meats or can be enjoyed as a main vegetarian dish. Consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad or a side of steamed vegetables for balance. It also makes a delightful addition to holiday meals, complementing flavors in Thanksgiving spreads.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out. This dish can also be reheated in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of South Carolina Sweet Potatoes contains roughly 342 calories, with 4g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (18% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (16% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can use canned sweet potatoes for convenience. However, be sure to drain them well and adjust the sugar in the recipe since canned varieties can be sweeter. Mash them thoroughly to achieve a smooth consistency before mixing with other ingredients.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour. Ensure that other ingredients, like brown sugar, are also gluten-free, as most are. This adjustment will keep the dish delicious while accommodating gluten sensitivities.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sweet potato mixture and topping a day in advance. Simply cover tightly and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow the mixture to come to room temperature before adding the topping and baking as directed for a delicious, make-ahead option.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).