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Best Easy Caramelized Maple Bourbon Sweet Potatoes

caramelized maple bourbon sweet potatoes - featured image

These caramelized maple bourbon sweet potatoes are a perfect side dish for any gathering. The bourbon adds a warm, oaky depth that makes the maple syrup sing, creating a dish that is both familiar and exciting.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 lbs sweet potatoes (about 45 medium), peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
  • 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup bourbon
  • 1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • Optional: fresh thyme sprigs or flaky sea salt for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel sweet potatoes (if desired) and cut into 1-inch cubes. Place in a large mixing bowl.
  2. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add maple syrup, bourbon, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and kosher salt. Whisk until sugar is dissolved and mixture is smooth and bubbling slightly, about 2-3 minutes. Let simmer for 1 minute.
  3. Pour the warm glaze over the sweet potato cubes and toss until evenly coated.
  4. Transfer coated sweet potatoes to a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread into a single layer.
  5. Bake for 25 minutes. Remove from oven, stir sweet potatoes, and return to oven. Bake for another 20-25 minutes until fork-tender and glaze is thick and caramelized. For extra caramelization, broil for 2-3 minutes, watching closely.
  6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or flaky sea salt if desired.

Notes

For best caramelization, ensure sweet potatoes are in a single layer. If making ahead, prepare glaze and cut sweet potatoes a day in advance; store separately in refrigerator. Add 5-10 minutes to baking time if starting from cold. Bourbon can be substituted with dark rum or apple cider for non-alcoholic version.

Nutrition

Keywords: sweet potatoes, maple bourbon, caramelized, Thanksgiving, side dish, holiday, gluten-free