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Crispy Brown Sugar Bourbon Sweet Potato Casserole

crispy brown sugar bourbon sweet potato casserole - featured image

A comforting side dish featuring creamy, spiced sweet potatoes topped with a caramelized brown sugar and bourbon glaze that creates a crispy, savory-sweet crust.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 34 large sweet potatoes (23 pounds total, Garnet or Jewel varieties preferred)
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar (light or dark)
  • 23 tablespoons bourbon
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. Roast sweet potatoes for 45-60 minutes until soft, or boil for 20-25 minutes. Peel and let cool slightly.
  3. In a large bowl, mash the peeled potatoes with softened butter, heavy cream, vanilla extract, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
  4. In a small saucepan, combine brown sugar, bourbon, and 2 tablespoons of butter. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until dissolved and smooth (3-4 minutes).
  5. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly into the prepared baking dish.
  6. Pour the warm brown sugar bourbon mixture over the potatoes, spreading it evenly.
  7. Sprinkle with optional chopped nuts if desired.
  8. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the topping is bubbly and caramelized.
  9. Cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

For best texture, use fresh or roasted sweet potatoes rather than canned. Ensure butter is softened but not melted. If the topping browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil. This recipe is naturally gluten-free. For dairy-free, swap butter for vegan butter and cream for oat milk.

Nutrition

Keywords: sweet potato casserole, bourbon recipe, brown sugar topping, holiday sides, comfort food, gluten-free side dish