Name: Marshmallow Sweet Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 4 medium sweet potatoes; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup butter (melted); 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1 cup mini marshmallows

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Marshmallow Sweet Potatoes are a classic and irresistible side dish that brings warmth, sweetness, and a touch of nostalgia to any meal. Featuring tender, luscious sweet potatoes topped with a golden, gooey marshmallow crust, this dish is a staple for holiday dinners and cozy family gatherings. With just a handful of simple ingredients, including brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and mini marshmallows, you can create a comforting recipe that pleases every palate. Whether you’re serving it alongside a festive feast or as a special treat any time of year, these Marshmallow Sweet Potatoes are sure to become a beloved favorite.

What Sets This Recipe Apart

Unlike other sweet potato dishes that rely on heavy cream or complicated flavor combinations, this recipe keeps things straightforward and soulful. The balance of warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg perfectly complements the natural sweetness of the potatoes, while the brown sugar and melted butter add depth and richness. The crowning glory is the layer of mini marshmallows that toast to a golden brown, delivering that signature melt-in-your-mouth texture and a hint of caramelized sweetness. This recipe is not only simple to make but also adaptable, allowing you to experiment with seasonal twists or pair it with other vibrant dishes like a Roasted Sweet Potato And Kale Bowl for a healthy, colorful meal.

The Essentials

4 medium sweet potatoes: The base of this dish, bringing natural sweetness and a creamy texture when cooked.
1/2 cup brown sugar: Adds a rich, molasses-like sweetness that enhances the potatoes’ flavor.
1/4 cup butter, melted: Provides a silky richness and helps bind the sugar and spices to the potatoes.
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and a subtle spice that pairs beautifully with sweet potatoes.
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: A fragrant spice that deepens the flavor profile with nutty, slightly sweet notes.
1 cup mini marshmallows: The star topping, which melts and browns to create a gooey, crispy finish.

Equipment at a Glance

Large pot: For boiling the sweet potatoes until tender.
Mixing bowl: To combine the butter, sugar, and spices with the potatoes.
Baking dish (8×8 inch or similar): For baking the sweet potatoes and marshmallow topping.
Fork or potato masher: To mash the cooked sweet potatoes to your desired consistency.
Oven: For finishing the dish by melting and browning the marshmallows.

Stepwise Method: Marshmallow Sweet Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Sweet Potatoes

Start by peeling the sweet potatoes and cutting them into evenly sized chunks. Place them in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well and transfer to a mixing bowl.

Step 2: Mash and Season

Using a fork or potato masher, mash the sweet potatoes until smooth but still slightly chunky, depending on your texture preference. Stir in the melted butter, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg until all ingredients are well combined and the mixture is warm and inviting.

Step 3: Transfer to Baking Dish

Spoon the sweet potato mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. This will create a nice base layer for the marshmallow topping.

Step 4: Add the Marshmallows

Sprinkle the mini marshmallows evenly over the sweet potato layer, covering the surface completely. This will allow the marshmallows to melt uniformly and form a golden crust.

Step 5: Bake and Brown

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the marshmallows are puffed up and browned to your liking. For extra browning, you can switch to the broiler for the last 1-2 minutes, but watch closely to avoid burning.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Remove from the oven and let the Marshmallow Sweet Potatoes cool slightly before serving. The marshmallow topping will be hot and gooey, perfectly complementing the soft, sweet potatoes underneath.

Seasonal Spins

Autumn Delight: Add a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch and a nutty flavor.
Spiced Citrus: Stir in a teaspoon of freshly grated orange zest to brighten the dish.
Maple Twist: Replace half the brown sugar with pure maple syrup for a deeper sweetness.
Vegan Variation: Use plant-based butter and vegan marshmallows for a dairy-free treat.
Herbal Hint: Mix in a teaspoon of fresh rosemary or thyme for a savory balance.

Method to the Madness

There’s a delightful method to creating the perfect Marshmallow Sweet Potatoes, balancing sweetness, spice, and texture:

Ensure the sweet potatoes are cooked thoroughly so they mash easily and have a creamy texture.
Mix the spices and sugar well into the warm potatoes to infuse the flavors evenly.
Don’t skimp on the butter; it’s key to that rich, comforting mouthfeel.
Evenly distribute marshmallows to guarantee a consistent topping that melts beautifully.
Keep an eye on the marshmallows while baking to achieve a golden-brown finish without burning.

For a twist on traditional sweet potato dishes, you might want to compare this recipe to Browned Butter Mashed Sweet Potatoes, which offers a rich, nutty flavor profile.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

Once your Marshmallow Sweet Potatoes have cooled slightly, you can enjoy them immediately or store leftovers safely:

Cooling: Let the dish cool to room temperature before covering to prevent condensation buildup.
Storing: Cover tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Warm in a microwave-safe dish or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Add extra marshmallows on top and broil briefly if you want to refresh the golden crust.
Freezing: This dish freezes well without marshmallows on top. Freeze the mashed sweet potatoes in a sealed container, then thaw and add marshmallows before baking.

FAQ

Can I use large sweet potatoes instead of medium?

Yes, you can use large sweet potatoes, but adjust the quantity accordingly. Four medium sweet potatoes roughly equal about 3 to 4 cups of mashed sweet potatoes. Use enough to fill your baking dish without overcrowding.

Are mini marshmallows necessary, or can I use regular-sized ones?

Mini marshmallows work best because they melt evenly and create a consistent topping. If you only have regular-sized marshmallows, chop them into smaller pieces before sprinkling on top.

How can I make this recipe less sweet?

To reduce sweetness, cut the brown sugar amount to 1/4 cup or substitute with a natural sweetener like maple syrup in smaller quantities. You can also reduce the marshmallows or omit them if desired.

Can I prepare the sweet potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can cook and mash the sweet potatoes a day ahead. Store them in the refrigerator, then assemble with butter, sugar, spices, and marshmallows just before baking.

More Recipes You’ll Love

Roasted Sweet Potato And Kale Bowl – A nutrient-packed dish perfect for lunch or dinner.
Chili Lime Sweet Potato Chicken – A zesty, flavorful one-pan meal with sweet potatoes and chicken.
Browned Butter Mashed Sweet Potatoes – A rich and buttery alternative to traditional mashed sweet potatoes.

Ready, Set, Cook

Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to indulge in the comforting sweetness of Marshmallow Sweet Potatoes. This dish is perfect for both everyday dinners and special occasions, offering a nostalgic yet fresh way to enjoy sweet potatoes. Whether you prefer them as a side or the star of your meal, these sweet potatoes topped with toasted marshmallows will delight every bite.

Marshmallow Sweet Potatoes bring a wonderful blend of flavors and textures that elevate any table. Their ease of preparation, combined with the cozy spices and gooey marshmallow topping, make this recipe a must-try for anyone who loves classic comfort food with a sweet twist. Enjoy serving them alongside your favorite mains or explore creative pairings with dishes like the Chili Lime Sweet Potato Chicken for a meal that dazzles from start to finish.

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