18 Creamy Mashed Sweet Potato Recipes with Brown Sugar Glaze

Looking for the ultimate comfort food with a sweet twist? These 18 creamy mashed sweet potato recipes—topped with a luscious brown sugar glaze—are about to become your go-to fall favorites. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight side or a showstopping holiday dish, these velvety, caramel-kissed spuds are guaranteed to steal the spotlight. Get ready to dig in—your taste buds will thank you!

Brown Sugar Cinnamon Mashed Sweet Potatoes

These creamy, spiced sweet potatoes are like dessert disguised as a side dish—comfort food at its coziest.

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 1/3 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/4 cup heavy cream (or whole milk)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp salt

Instructions:

1. Place sweet potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 15–18 minutes until fork-tender. Drain well.
2. Return potatoes to the pot and mash with 4 tbsp butter, 1/3 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup heavy cream, 1 tsp cinnamon, 1/2 tsp vanilla, and 1/2 tsp salt until smooth and fluffy (about 2 minutes). For extra creaminess, whip with a hand mixer.
3. Taste and adjust cinnamon or sugar if desired. Serve warm with a pat of butter melting on top.

The caramel-like depth of brown sugar and warm cinnamon turns humble sweet potatoes into something downright luxurious—perfect for holiday tables or Sunday suppers.

Tip: For a caramelized twist, broil leftovers in a baking dish for 3–5 minutes until the top bubbles and browns.

Maple Brown Sugar Mashed Sweet Potatoes

These creamy mashed sweet potatoes get a cozy upgrade with maple syrup and brown sugar—just sweet enough to feel like a treat without overpowering the natural flavor.

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 2 tbsp packed brown sugar
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup whole milk or heavy cream

Instructions:

1. Place sweet potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 15–20 minutes until fork-tender. Drain well.
2. Return potatoes to the pot and mash with 4 tbsp butter until smooth. Stir in 1/4 cup maple syrup, 2 tbsp brown sugar, 1/2 tsp cinnamon, and 1/2 tsp salt.
3. Warm 1/4 cup milk or cream in the microwave for 20 seconds, then gradually fold into the potatoes until fluffy and creamy.

The maple and brown sugar caramelize slightly as they mix with the warm potatoes, creating a rich, almost butterscotch-like depth. Perfect for balancing savory holiday mains!

Tip: For extra texture, top with a sprinkle of toasted pecans or a drizzle of maple butter before serving.

Spiced Brown Sugar Mashed Sweet Potatoes

These creamy, warmly spiced sweet potatoes strike the perfect balance between cozy comfort and a touch of sweetness—ideal for holiday dinners or weeknight upgrades.

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 1/3 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or whole milk for lighter texture)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp salt

Instructions:

1. Place sweet potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold water, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to simmer for 15–20 minutes until fork-tender. Drain well.
2. Return potatoes to the pot over low heat. Add 4 tbsp butter, 1/3 cup brown sugar, 1/2 cup heavy cream, 1 tsp cinnamon, 1/2 tsp nutmeg, 1/4 tsp cloves, 1 tsp vanilla, and 1/2 tsp salt. Mash with a potato masher until smooth (or use a hand mixer for extra fluffiness).
3. Taste and adjust spices if needed, then serve warm. The brown sugar caramelizes slightly as it melts, giving the mash a subtle depth that pairs beautifully with the aromatic spices.

Tip: For a smoky twist, swap the nutmeg for 1/4 tsp chipotle powder—it’ll add a whisper of heat!

Creamy Brown Sugar Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Pecans

These mashed sweet potatoes strike the perfect balance between rich, creamy comfort and a touch of caramelized crunch.

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
• 1/3 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans

Instructions:

1. Place sweet potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 15–20 minutes until fork-tender. Drain well.
2. Return potatoes to the pot. Add 3 tbsp butter, heavy cream, brown sugar, vanilla, and salt. Mash until smooth and creamy.
3. In a small skillet over medium heat, melt remaining 1 tbsp butter. Add pecans and toast for 3–4 minutes, stirring often, until fragrant and lightly golden.
4. Fold half the pecans into the mashed sweet potatoes, then transfer to a serving bowl. Top with remaining pecans.

The toasted pecans add a buttery crunch that contrasts beautifully with the velvety sweet potatoes—no marshmallows needed for this upgrade!

Tip: For extra depth, swap the vanilla for 1/2 tsp cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne.

Vanilla Brown Sugar Mashed Sweet Potatoes

These creamy mashed sweet potatoes get a cozy upgrade with warm vanilla and caramel-like brown sugar—perfect for turning a simple side into something special.

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or whole milk for a lighter version)
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Place sweet potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 15–18 minutes until fork-tender. Drain well.
2. Return the potatoes to the pot over low heat. Add 4 tbsp butter, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1/2 cup heavy cream, 1 tsp vanilla, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp cinnamon. Mash with a potato masher or blend with a hand mixer until smooth and fluffy.
3. Taste and adjust salt or sugar if needed. Serve warm with an extra pat of butter melted on top.

The vanilla and brown sugar deepen the potatoes’ natural sweetness without overpowering them—think dessert-like comfort in every bite. Tip: For extra richness, swap the heavy cream with coconut milk and add a pinch of nutmeg.

Brown Sugar Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows

This cozy mash-up of creamy sweet potatoes, caramelized brown sugar, and gooey marshmallows is like dessert disguised as a side dish—your holiday table won’t be complete without it!

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 1/3 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows

Instructions:

1. Cook the sweet potatoes: In a large pot, cover sweet potatoes with cold water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes until fork-tender. Drain well.
2. Mash & season: Return potatoes to the pot. Add 4 tbsp butter, 1/3 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup heavy cream, 1 tsp vanilla, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp cinnamon. Mash until smooth.
3. Top & broil: Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish. Scatter 1 1/2 cups marshmallows evenly on top. Broil on high for 2–3 minutes until marshmallows are golden and puffed (watch closely!).

The magic here? The marshmallows toast into a crackly cloud while the sweet potato base stays luxuriously smooth—a textural dream!

Tip: For extra depth, swap half the brown sugar with maple syrup or add a pinch of nutmeg to the cinnamon.

Nutmeg Brown Sugar Mashed Sweet Potatoes

These creamy mashed sweet potatoes get a cozy upgrade with warm nutmeg and a touch of brown sugar—perfect for balancing their natural sweetness.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup whole milk
• 2 tbsp packed brown sugar
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp salt

Instructions:

1. Place the sweet potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 15–20 minutes until fork-tender. Drain well.
2. Return the potatoes to the pot and mash with 4 tbsp butter until smooth. Stir in 1/4 cup milk, 2 tbsp brown sugar, 1/2 tsp nutmeg, and 1/2 tsp salt until fully combined and creamy.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then serve warm.

The nutmeg adds a subtle warmth that makes these feel extra special, while the brown sugar enhances the potatoes’ caramel-like richness without overpowering them.

Tip: For extra fluffiness, warm the milk before mixing it in—cold milk can make the mash gluey.

Brown Sugar Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Orange Zest

These brown sugar mashed sweet potatoes get a bright lift from fresh orange zest, making them anything but ordinary.

• 2 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/3 cup whole milk
• 1 tsp finely grated orange zest
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp salt

1. Place the sweet potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 15–18 minutes until fork-tender. Drain well.
2. Return the potatoes to the pot and mash with the butter, brown sugar, milk, orange zest, cinnamon, and salt until smooth and creamy (about 2–3 minutes).
3. Taste and adjust salt or sugar if needed, then transfer to a serving bowl.

The orange zest cuts through the richness beautifully, giving these mashed sweet potatoes a sunny, sophisticated twist. Tip: For extra fluffiness, warm the milk before adding it to the potatoes.

Coconut Brown Sugar Mashed Sweet Potatoes

These dreamy mashed sweet potatoes get a double dose of richness from coconut milk and a caramel-like kiss of brown sugar—comfort food with a tropical twist.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/2 cup full-fat coconut milk
• 3 tbsp packed brown sugar
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Place sweet potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 12–15 minutes until fork-tender. Drain well.
2. Return potatoes to the pot and mash with a potato masher or fork until smooth. Add 1/2 cup coconut milk, 3 tbsp brown sugar, 2 tbsp butter, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp cinnamon. Stir over low heat for 2–3 minutes until creamy and fully combined.

The coconut milk adds a subtle nuttiness that balances the sweetness, while the brown sugar creates a glossy, almost candied finish—perfect for holiday tables or weeknight indulgence.

Tip: For extra texture, sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top before serving.

Brown Sugar Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Candied Ginger

These creamy mashed sweet potatoes get a cozy upgrade with caramel-like brown sugar and a spicy-sweet kick from candied ginger—perfect for balancing rich holiday mains.

Ingredients

• 3 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/3 cup packed dark brown sugar
• 1/3 cup heavy cream, warmed
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/4 cup finely chopped candied ginger

Instructions

1. Place sweet potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 12–15 minutes until fork-tender. Drain well.
2. Return potatoes to the pot and mash with butter, brown sugar, heavy cream, vanilla, and salt until smooth and fluffy (about 2 minutes). Fold in candied ginger.
3. Transfer to a serving bowl and let sit for 5 minutes to let the ginger soften slightly. Serve warm.

The candied ginger melts just enough to infuse every bite with warmth, while the brown sugar deepens the potatoes’ natural caramel notes—no marshmallow topping needed!

Tip: For extra texture, reserve a sprinkle of ginger to garnish the top.

Brown Sugar Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Bourbon Glaze

These creamy mashed sweet potatoes get a grown-up twist with a sticky bourbon glaze—perfect for holiday dinners or Sunday suppers where you want a little extra flair.

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
• 1/3 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup bourbon
• 2 tbsp maple syrup
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Boil the sweet potatoes in salted water for 15–20 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and return to the pot.
2. Add 3 tbsp butter, brown sugar, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt. Mash until smooth. Cover to keep warm.
3. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the remaining 1 tbsp butter. Add bourbon, maple syrup, and cinnamon. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Drizzle the glaze over the mashed sweet potatoes just before serving.

The bourbon glaze caramelizes into a glossy finish, balancing the sweetness with a subtle smoky kick.

Tip: For a non-alcoholic version, replace the bourbon with 2 tbsp apple cider and 1/2 tsp vanilla extract.

Brown Sugar Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Caramelized Apples

Silky mashed sweet potatoes meet buttery caramelized apples in this cozy side dish—a sweet-savory twist that’ll steal the spotlight at any table.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 medium apples (like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), thinly sliced
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar, divided
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 tsp salt

Instructions:

1. Cook the sweet potatoes: Boil sweet potatoes in salted water for 15–20 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and return to the pot.
2. Mash: Add 2 tbsp butter, 2 tbsp brown sugar, heavy cream, and salt. Mash until smooth. Cover to keep warm.
3. Caramelize the apples: Melt remaining 1 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add apples, remaining 2 tbsp brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cook 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until apples are tender and glazed.
4. Serve: Swirl caramelized apples into the mashed sweet potatoes or layer them on top.

The contrast of velvety potatoes and sticky-sweet apples makes every bite irresistible—perfect for holiday dinners or Sunday suppers.

Tip: For extra richness, swap heavy cream with coconut milk and add a pinch of nutmeg.

Brown Sugar Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Toasted Almonds

These creamy mashed sweet potatoes get a cozy upgrade with caramelized brown sugar and a crunchy almond topping—perfect for elevating weeknight dinners or holiday spreads.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
• 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/3 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/3 cup sliced almonds

Instructions:

1. Place sweet potatoes in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–18 minutes until fork-tender. Drain.
2. Return potatoes to the pot. Add 3 tbsp butter, brown sugar, heavy cream, salt, and cinnamon. Mash until smooth.
3. In a small skillet over medium heat, melt remaining 1 tbsp butter. Add almonds and toast for 3–4 minutes, stirring often, until golden and fragrant.
4. Transfer mashed sweet potatoes to a serving bowl and top with toasted almonds. Serve warm.

The contrast of velvety potatoes, rich brown sugar, and nutty crunch makes this side dish irresistibly textural. It’s a small twist that feels special every time.

Tip: For extra depth, swap the cinnamon for a pinch of cardamom or nutmeg.

Brown Sugar Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Pumpkin Spice

These creamy mashed sweet potatoes get a cozy upgrade with brown sugar and warm pumpkin spice—perfect for spooning straight from the bowl or pairing with your favorite holiday mains.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/3 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 tsp salt

Instructions:

1. Place sweet potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 15–18 minutes until fork-tender. Drain well.
2. Return potatoes to the pot and mash with 4 tbsp butter until smooth. Stir in 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1/3 cup heavy cream, 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice, and 1/2 tsp salt until fully combined and fluffy.
3. Serve warm, topped with an extra sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice if desired.

The brown sugar caramelizes slightly as it melts into the potatoes, giving them a subtle depth that plays perfectly with the aromatic spice blend.

Tip: For extra richness, swap the heavy cream with coconut milk and add a drizzle of maple syrup with the brown sugar.

Brown Sugar Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Honey Drizzle

These creamy mashed sweet potatoes get a cozy upgrade with brown sugar and a glossy honey drizzle—comfort food at its simplest.

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/3 cup whole milk
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon (optional)

Instructions:

1. Place sweet potatoes in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–18 minutes until fork-tender. Drain well.
2. Return potatoes to the pot and mash with 4 tbsp butter, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1/3 cup milk, and 1/2 tsp salt until smooth. For extra fluff, whip with a hand mixer.
3. Transfer to a serving bowl. Drizzle with 2 tbsp honey and sprinkle with 1/4 tsp cinnamon (if using). Serve warm.

The brown sugar caramelizes slightly as it melts into the potatoes, while the honey adds a delicate floral sweetness—no gravy required!

Tip: For a make-ahead version, reheat mashed potatoes with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Brown Sugar Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Rosemary Infusion

These velvety mashed sweet potatoes get a cozy upgrade with caramelized brown sugar and fragrant rosemary—perfect for elevating your weeknight sides.

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/3 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/3 cup heavy cream
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Place sweet potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold water, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to simmer for 15–20 minutes until fork-tender. Drain well.
2. Return potatoes to the pot over low heat. Add 4 tbsp butter, 1/3 cup brown sugar, 1/3 cup heavy cream, 1 tbsp rosemary, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy.
3. Cook for 2–3 more minutes, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves and the rosemary infuses the mixture with its earthy aroma.

The rosemary’s piney notes cut through the sweetness beautifully, making this side feel both indulgent and balanced.

Tip: For extra richness, swap the heavy cream with coconut milk and garnish with toasted pecans.

Brown Sugar Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Walnut Crunch

These creamy, caramel-kissed sweet potatoes get a delightful crunch from toasted walnuts—a cozy upgrade to your holiday table or weeknight side rotation.

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
• 1/3 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
• 1 tbsp maple syrup

Instructions:

1. Boil sweet potatoes in a large pot of water for 15–20 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and return to the pot.
2. Add 3 tbsp butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Mash until smooth, then stir in heavy cream.
3. In a small skillet over medium heat, melt remaining 1 tbsp butter. Add walnuts and toast for 3–4 minutes, stirring often, until fragrant. Drizzle with maple syrup and cook 1 more minute until glossy.
4. Transfer mashed sweet potatoes to a serving bowl and top with walnut crunch. Serve warm.

The contrast of velvety potatoes and sticky-sweet walnuts makes every bite irresistible—plus, the crunch holds up surprisingly well for leftovers!

Tip: For extra depth, brown the butter for the walnuts in step 3 until nutty and golden.

Brown Sugar Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Cardamom Twist

These velvety mashed sweet potatoes get a cozy upgrade with warm brown sugar and a hint of fragrant cardamom—perfect for balancing richness and spice.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/2 tsp ground cardamom
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/4 cup whole milk (or heavy cream for extra richness)

Instructions:

1. Place sweet potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 15–20 minutes until fork-tender. Drain well.
2. Return potatoes to the pot and add 4 tbsp unsalted butter, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1/2 tsp cardamom, and 1/2 tsp salt. Mash until mostly smooth.
3. Warm 1/4 cup milk in the microwave (30 seconds) and gradually stir into the potatoes until creamy but still slightly textured.

The cardamom’s floral warmth plays beautifully against the caramel-like brown sugar, making this side dish feel both familiar and special. Tip: For a smoky twist, swap brown sugar with maple syrup and add a pinch of cinnamon.

Conclusion

With 18 luscious mashed sweet potato recipes featuring a dreamy brown sugar glaze, this roundup has something for every home cook! Whether you’re craving classic comfort or a creative twist, these dishes are sure to delight. Try one (or a few!) and let us know your favorite in the comments. Loved this list? Share the sweetness—pin it on Pinterest for later!