As seen on WKTV NEWSChannel 2 Friday, November 8, 2013

Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Sugared Walnuts

Sweet potatoes are a staple at the grand Thanksgiving Day feast, but why not make them ultra special by topping with a caramelized walnut mixture.

The ultimate in sweet potato goodness, this savory side dish is easy to prepare and perfect for both children and adults. The combination of cinnamon-spiced, sugared walnuts with sumptuous mashed sweet potatoes will complement the other Thanksgiving dishes.

And you can prepare the mashed sweet potatoes mixture up to two days in advance and store, covered, in the fridge. When ready to bake, make the sugared walnuts mixture and sprinkle over potato mixture. This classic Anchor Hocking Oven Basics 2 quart covered casserole makes clean up a snap since it can go right in the dishwasher.

When it comes to honoring tradition with familiar favorites, this recipe will ensure the Thanksgiving celebration is just a little sweeter.

MASHED SWEET POTATOES WITH SUGARED WALNUTS

MASHED SWEET POTAOTES
4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and coarsely chopped
Nonstick cooking spray
1/4 cup (1/2 stick) butter
3 tablespoons packed brown sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla
Salt and pepper to taste

SUGARED WALNUTS
1/3 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
3 tablespoons butter, melted
1 cup chopped walnuts
For mashed sweet potatoes, place sweet potatoes in a large saucepan; cover with cold water. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover loosely, and gently boil until tender, 10 to 15 minutes. Drain. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Lightly coat a 2-quart casserole with nonstick cooking spray. For mashed sweet potatoes, place cooked sweet potatoes in a large bowl. Add 1/4 cup butter, 3 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, milk, and vanilla; mash until almost no lumps remain. Season with salt and pepper; transfer to prepared casserole.

For sugared walnuts, in a small bowl combine 1/3 cup brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, and 3 tablespoons melted butter. Stir in walnuts. Sprinkle over potato mixture; bake until potato mixture is set and walnut mixture has browned, 35 to 40 minutes. Makes 8 servings.

Thanks to Anchor Hocking for providing photography and bakeware