- Butter (6 tablespoons) - Softened, crucial for texture
- Cornstarch (2 tablespoons) - Helps thicken the mixture
- Cinnamon (1 teaspoon) - Adds a warm spice flavor
- Nutmeg (1/2 teaspoon) - Enhances the overall flavor profile
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon) - Optional but adds depth to the casserole
- Egg (1 large) - Binds ingredients together nicely
- Whipped Cream or Powdered Sugar (for topping, optional) - Garnish for a luxurious finish
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Steps
### Best Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide
#### Introduction to Sweet Potato Casserole
Sweet potato casserole is a classic Thanksgiving dish that's loved by many. This creamy, gooey dessert is perfect for any fall or holiday gathering. By following these detailed steps, you'll be able to make a delicious, crowd-pleasing sweet potato casserole.
#### Ingredients
**For the Sweet Potatoes:**
- 4 large sweet potatoes (about 2 lbs)
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 to 1/2 cup heavy cream
**For the Topping:**
- 1.5 cups old-fashioned oats (quick-cooking oats can be used as a substitute)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
#### Equipment Needed:
- Large mixing bowl
- Aluminum foil
- 9x13-inch baking dish
- Mixing spoon or spatula
- Cooling rack (optional)
### Step-by-Step Instructions
#### Preparing the Sweet Potatoes
1. **Peeling and Cutting:** Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly, then cut them in half lengthwise and scoop out the flesh with a spoon. Place the sweet potato meat into a large mixing bowl.
2. **Boiling:** Place the skin back onto the cutting board to make use of the peelings for another recipe if desired. Put the sweet potato chunks into a pot of water, cover, and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Boil until fork-tender (about 15-20 minutes).
3. **Draining:** Drain the sweet potatoes and return them to the pot.
4. **Mashing:** Mash the sweet potatoes with a potato masher or an electric mixer until smooth.
5. **Adding Ingredients:** Add in butter, sugar, cinnamon, salt, vanilla extract, and heavy cream (if using). Mix well until everything is thoroughly incorporated.
#### Preparing the Topping
1. **Mixing Dry Ingredients:** In a small bowl, combine oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
2. **Softening Butter:** In a separate bowl, soften 3 tablespoons of butter.
3. **Combining Ingredients:** Add the beaten egg to the softened butter and mix until smooth.
4. **Coating Oats:** Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is evenly coated.
#### Assembling the Casserole
1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. **Greasing the Dish:** Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
3. **Layering:** Spread the mashed sweet potatoes into the prepared baking dish, ensuring it's evenly distributed and slightly packed down.
4. **Adding Topping:** Sprinkle the oat mixture over the sweet potato layer, pressing gently to adhere.
#### Baking
1. **Baking Time:** Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is hot and bubbly.
2. **Checking Doneness:** Use a toothpick to check if it’s done; it should come out clean with just a bit of gooeyness left in the center.
#### Cooling (Optional)
Allow the sweet potato casserole to cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes before serving. This step ensures that the topping sets and becomes easier to handle.
### Serving Suggestions
Serve this sweet potato casserole hot, garnished with a sprinkle of additional cinnamon if desired. Enjoy it as part of your holiday spread or share with friends and family during the fall season!
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