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If you’re looking for that perfect dish that brings cozy comfort together with a little bit of festive magic, this Sweet Potato Casserole with Streusel and Marshmallows Recipe is exactly what you need. It balances the natural sweetness and creamy texture of baked sweet potatoes with a crunchy, buttery streusel topping and just the right amount of gooey marshmallows. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a special family dinner, this casserole will turn any occasion into a heartwarming celebration of flavor and texture.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe is simple but plays a vital role in creating the layers of flavor and texture that make this casserole so irresistible. From the natural sweetness of the potatoes to the aromatic spices and crunchy streusel, these components come together in harmony.
- 4 pounds sweet potatoes: These provide the creamy, rich base essential for a classic sweet potato casserole.
- 1 orange: The fresh juice adds a bright, citrusy zing that balances the sweetness perfectly.
- 2/3 cup heavy cream: This contributes a luscious, smooth richness to the mashed sweet potatoes.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted and cooled): Adds luscious depth and moistness to the sweet potato base.
- 1/3 cup light brown sugar (packed): Offers a warm, caramel-like sweetness for that inviting flavor.
- 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon: A classic spice that evokes cozy warmth.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Just a hint enhances the overall spice profile without overpowering.
- 1-1/4 teaspoons vanilla extract: Provides a subtle floral note that rounds out the flavors beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Necessary to bring all the flavors into perfect balance.
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted and cooled): Used again in the streusel topping for that irresistible crumbly texture.
- 1 cup flour: The base of the streusel topping, helping create those buttery crumbles.
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar (packed): Sweetens the streusel and helps it caramelize to a golden crisp.
- 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds a warm spice touch to the streusel for extra depth.
- 1/8 teaspoon salt: Enhances the sweetness in the streusel without making it salty.
- 1-1/2 cups miniature marshmallows: Top off the casserole with these melty, sweet jewels for the perfect finish.
How to Make Sweet Potato Casserole with Streusel and Marshmallows Recipe
Step 1: Bake the Sweet Potatoes
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and prepare a 9×13-inch ceramic pan by greasing it well. Scrub the sweet potatoes thoroughly and pierce them all over with a fork so steam can escape while baking. Place them on a foil-lined baking sheet and bake for 60 to 90 minutes, or until they become tender enough to mash easily. Once out of the oven, slice them in half and let them cool so you can handle them safely for the next step.
Step 2: Mix the Casserole Base
When the sweet potatoes have cooled, scoop out the flesh and mash it until smooth, measuring 5-3/4 cups. Transfer the mashed sweet potatoes to a large bowl, then add 1/4 cup of freshly squeezed orange juice, heavy cream, melted butter, light brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and salt. Use a hand mixer or a stand mixer to blend everything until silky and well combined. Spread this luscious mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish; this will be the creamy base of your casserole.
Step 3: Mix the Streusel
To create the irresistible streusel topping, mix together melted butter, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Stir everything initially, then knead the mixture gently with your hands until it forms clumps. If it feels too wet and refuses to clump, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, to get the perfect crumbly texture. This topping will bring that fantastic crunch to your casserole.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the sweet potato base in distinct rows—use all of the mixture for maximum crunch. Bake the casserole for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the streusel is set and beautifully golden brown. Once it reaches this stage, add the miniature marshmallows between the rows of streusel. Bake for another 4 to 8 minutes, keeping a close eye, until the marshmallows melt to a soft, lightly golden finish. Serve warm for that perfect melty, crunchy experience.
How to Serve Sweet Potato Casserole with Streusel and Marshmallows Recipe
Garnishes
While the marshmallows are already a delightful topping, you can add a sprinkle of chopped pecans or toasted walnuts for an added crunch and nutty flavor. A light dusting of cinnamon or a few fresh orange zest shavings on top right before serving can brighten the flavors beautifully and enhance the visual appeal.
Side Dishes
This Sweet Potato Casserole with Streusel and Marshmallows Recipe pairs wonderfully with savory dishes like roasted turkey, glazed ham, or herb-crusted chicken. Adding a crisp green salad or steamed green beans alongside balances the richness and rounds out your meal perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming twist, consider serving individual portions in small ramekins topped with the streusel and marshmallows baked right inside. You could also layer the casserole in a trifle dish, alternating sweet potato base with streusel for a stunning visual. It’s a showstopper that also tastes incredible.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your feast, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Reheat gently in the oven to preserve the crunchy topping and creamy interior.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely, then cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated 350°F oven, tightly covered with foil, for about 20 to 25 minutes until warmed through. Remove the foil during the last 5 minutes to refresh the streusel topping’s crispiness. If you want to revive the marshmallows, briefly broil the top at the end, watching carefully to prevent burning.
FAQs
Can I make this Sweet Potato Casserole with Streusel and Marshmallows Recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it up to a day in advance. Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate before baking it fresh just before serving.
What if I don’t have heavy cream? Can I substitute something else?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though the casserole will be slightly less rich and creamy. Adding a little extra butter helps maintain richness.
Is it okay to use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh ones?
While you can use canned sweet potatoes in a pinch, fresh sweet potatoes provide the best texture and flavor. If you do use canned, drain them well, mash, and adjust liquids accordingly to avoid excess moisture.
Can I make the streusel topping nut-free if I want to add nuts?
Definitely. The basic streusel in this recipe doesn’t require nuts, so it’s naturally nut-free unless you choose to add them as a garnish or topping.
How do I prevent marshmallows from burning on top?
Keep a close watch during the final baking stage when the marshmallows melt. Pull the casserole out as soon as they turn soft and lightly golden. You can also tent with foil if necessary to shield them.
Final Thoughts
This Sweet Potato Casserole with Streusel and Marshmallows Recipe is truly a heartwarming dish that brings joy and comfort to any table. It’s a perfect way to showcase the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes while adding delightful textures and festive flair. Once you try it, this casserole will likely become a beloved staple in your kitchen, ready to impress family and friends season after season.
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Sweet Potato Casserole with Streusel and Marshmallows Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Sweet Potato Casserole is a classic holiday side dish featuring tender, mashed sweet potatoes flavored with warm spices and vanilla. Topped with a buttery, cinnamon-spiced streusel and gooey miniature marshmallows, this comforting casserole is baked to a golden finish, perfect for festive gatherings or cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
Sweet Potato Base
- 4 pounds sweet potatoes (about 6 large, 5–3/4 cups when mashed)
- 1 orange (for 1/4 cup orange juice)
- 2/3 cup heavy cream
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted and cooled)
- 1/3 cup light brown sugar (packed)
- 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1–1/4 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon salt
Streusel Topping
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted and cooled)
- 1 cup flour
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar (packed)
- 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
Additional Topping
- 1–1/2 cups miniature marshmallows
Instructions
- Bake Sweet Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Scrub the sweet potatoes well and pierce them all over with a fork, leaving the skins on. Place them on a foil-lined sheet pan and bake for 60 to 90 minutes until they are very tender when pierced. Remove from the oven, slice them in half, and allow to cool.
- Prepare the Casserole Base: Once cooled, scoop the flesh from the sweet potatoes and mash it to measure 5-3/4 cups. Transfer to a large bowl and add 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice, heavy cream, melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and salt. Use a hand or stand mixer to blend everything until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Evenly spread this sweet potato mixture into a greased 9×13-inch ceramic baking dish.
- Make the Streusel Topping: In a separate bowl, combine melted butter, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Stir to combine, then knead the mixture with your hands until clumps begin to form. If it feels too wet, gradually add more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired crumbly texture is reached.
- Assemble and Bake the Casserole: Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the sweet potato base in rows, using all of the mixture. Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 35 to 45 minutes until the topping is set and golden brown.
- Add Marshmallows and Final Bake: Remove the casserole briefly from the oven and add miniature marshmallows between the rows of streusel topping. Return it to the oven and bake for an additional 4 to 8 minutes, or until the marshmallows are melted and lightly browned. Watch closely during this last step to prevent burning. Serve the casserole warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- If the streusel topping feels too moist, add flour gradually to achieve a crumbly texture.
- For a smoother sweet potato mixture, use a hand mixer or stand mixer rather than mashing by hand.
- Watch the marshmallows closely during the final bake to prevent over-browning or burning.
- Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated before serving.
- This dish can be prepared a day in advance up to the point of adding marshmallows, then baked just before serving.
