Name: Cinnamon Scalloped Sweet Potatoes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 medium sweet potatoes; 1 cup brown sugar; 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon; ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional); 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ¾ cup pecans, chopped; ½ teaspoon salt; 3 tablespoons butter, cut into small pats; ⅓ cup whipped topping or mascarpone

Craving a cozy dish that feels like a warm hug from the oven? Cinnamon Scalloped Sweet Potatoes blend the richness of baked sweet potatoes with spiced brown sugar, crunchy pecans, and creamy dollops of whipped topping. This dish takes the comfort of a classic casserole and gives it a dessert-like upgrade that’s perfect for fall dinners or holiday spreads.

Each slice is tender, caramelized at the edges, and infused with warming cinnamon. It’s sweet enough to sit alongside desserts but still perfectly welcome next to your roast turkey or glazed ham. If you’re looking to impress guests or just want a beautiful, flavorful way to serve sweet potatoes, this recipe will easily earn a place in your go-to collection.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To create Cinnamon Scalloped Sweet Potatoes, your tool kit makes all the difference:

Mandoline Slicer or Sharp Knife: For evenly thin sweet potato slices that cook at the same rate and create those picture-perfect scalloped layers.
Oven-Safe Baking Dish: A deep round or rectangular dish ensures the potatoes bake evenly and hold their shape beautifully.
Mixing Bowls: Use separate bowls for tossing sweet potatoes in the spice mixture and for preparing the brown sugar-pecan topping.
Aluminum Foil: Important for covering during the first phase of baking to trap steam and soften the slices before browning.
Offset Spatula or Spoon: Helps spread the whipped topping or mascarpone cleanly on top.

Having the right tools doesn’t just streamline prep—they also help deliver that crisp-tender texture and impressive presentation.

Ingredients for the Cinnamon Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

Sweet Potatoes: The star ingredient, bringing natural sweetness and vibrant color. Choose firm, medium-sized ones for easy slicing.
Brown Sugar: Adds deep molasses sweetness and encourages caramelization as the potatoes bake.
Ground Cinnamon: Infuses warmth and aroma into every layer.
Nutmeg (optional): A pinch adds an earthy, spiced note that complements the cinnamon.
Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half: Creates a luscious, creamy texture between the layers.
Vanilla Extract: Adds depth to the sweetness and blends beautifully with cinnamon.
Pecans: Provide crunch and nuttiness, balancing the tender potato texture.
Salt: Enhances and balances the sweet elements.
Butter: Melted over the top to help brown the topping and enrich the flavor.
Whipped Topping or Mascarpone: Adds a creamy finish and a visual contrast against the golden potatoes.

How To Make the Cinnamon Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

Step 1: Slice the Sweet Potatoes

Peel and slice the sweet potatoes into thin, even rounds (about 1/8 inch thick). A mandoline works best for uniformity, but a sharp knife is fine too.

Step 2: Prepare the Cinnamon Cream Mixture

In a bowl, whisk together heavy cream (or half-and-half), brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth.

Step 3: Layer and Pour

Grease your baking dish. Layer sweet potatoes in overlapping rows. Pour a portion of the cinnamon cream over each layer as you go.

Step 4: Cover and Bake

Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 35-40 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 5: Add the Topping

Remove the foil. Sprinkle chopped pecans and a light layer of brown sugar across the top. Dot with small pats of butter.

Step 6: Finish Baking

Return to the oven uncovered for another 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Step 7: Serve with Creamy Dollops

Let it cool for 10 minutes. Before serving, spoon dollops of whipped topping or mascarpone and finish with a sprinkle of crushed pecans or cinnamon dust.

How to Serve and Store Cinnamon Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

Serve these Cinnamon Scalloped Sweet Potatoes warm, ideally about 10 minutes after baking so the layers settle and the flavors bloom. It’s a perfect side dish for roasted meats, holiday dinners, or even a sweet brunch offering. For a more dessert-like presentation, serve with an extra scoop of whipped cream or a drizzle of maple syrup.

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely. Cover tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole dish in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How thin should I slice the sweet potatoes?

Aim for about 1/8-inch thick slices. Uniform thickness ensures even baking and that tender-yet-structured scalloped look.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble it a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving, adding a few extra minutes to account for the cold start.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute with half-and-half, whole milk with a tablespoon of butter, or even a dairy-free creamer alternative. Just ensure it’s a thick, rich liquid for best texture.

Can I use other nuts besides pecans?

Absolutely. Walnuts or slivered almonds work well too, though pecans pair beautifully with cinnamon and sweet potatoes.

Do I need to peel the sweet potatoes?

Peeling is recommended for a soft, smooth texture. However, you can leave the skin on for a more rustic presentation—just scrub them thoroughly first.

Is this more of a side dish or a dessert?

It can be either! It leans sweet but works surprisingly well next to savory proteins. Add extra sugar and cream for a more decadent, dessert-forward version.

Want More Sweet Potato Recipe Ideas?

If Cinnamon Scalloped Sweet Potatoes have you swooning, you might want to explore more cozy comfort recipes with a twist. For starters, the Air Fried Potato Wedges offer a crispy, savory take on potatoes with minimal oil—ideal for weeknight dinners.

Craving creamy richness? Try the Creamy Crockpot Mac and Cheese, where cheese and comfort melt together effortlessly. Or turn up the autumn vibes with the Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples, a sweet-tart treat that plays beautifully with similar cinnamon-spiced notes.

Don’t overlook the Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole either—it brings a hearty veggie-packed alternative that rounds out any comfort food table.

For a rustic, seasonal side, the Best Mashed Potatoes Recipe is a timeless favorite that can complement or contrast with sweet scalloped layers.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this to your side dish or holiday recipe boards for future gatherings. Just hit the Pin button.

If you give it a try, I’d love to know what spin you put on it. Did you opt for mascarpone? Did you go heavy on the pecans? Drop a comment below and tell me how it turned out. I love seeing everyone’s kitchen creativity!

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