• Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar

The Short Order Cook

menu icon
go to homepage
  • Recipes
  • Food & Fun
  • Travel & Dining
  • Meet Angela
  • Work with Me
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
    • YouTube
  • subscribe
    search icon
    Homepage link
    • Recipes
    • Food & Fun
    • Travel & Dining
    • Meet Angela
    • Work with Me
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
    • YouTube
  • ×

    Home » Side Dishes

    Published: Oct 11, 2021 · Modified: Feb 23, 2023 by Angela · This post may contain affiliate links · 3 Comments

    Whipped Sweet Potatoes

    Jump to Recipe

    Whipped sweet potatoes with heavy cream and a touch of nutmeg and vanilla is a comforting side dish.  Perfectly cooked soft sweet potatoes are whipped until fluffy and creamy for a classic fall side dish. This is the best recipe for mashed & whipped sweet potatoes, trust me!

    This whipped sweet potato recipe has a satisfyingly rich, savory, and spiced flavor.  It is a great recipe for Thanksgiving, holidays, and all fall or winter long. 

    Whipped Sweet Potatoes PN1 a red cloth napkin topped with two ramekins filled with orange fluffy sweet potato

    Vanilla whipped sweet potatoes are an easy recipe that only needs a few simple ingredients for a ton of flavor. It is a healthy recipe without a lot of added sugar like most sweet potato casseroles.  There is no brown sugar. All the sweetness is from the natural sugars in the sweet potatoes.

    If you love sweet potato fries, the flavor of these will knock your socks off. Whip these up for a weeknight meal or any special occasion or holiday. This recipe is a great side dish paired with my recipe for oven-cooked bratwurst.

    Jump to:
    • Ingredients for Whipped Sweet Potatoes
    • How to Make Whipped Sweet Potatoes
    • Cook the Sweet Potatoes
    • How to Whip Sweet Potatoes
    • Mashed vs Whipped Sweet Potatoes
    • Substitutions & Variations
    • What to Serve with Sweet Potatoes
    • How to Store and Reheat Whipped Sweet Potatoes
    • PIN FOR SAFEKEEPING & SHARING!
    • Whipped Sweet Potatoes

    Ingredients for Whipped Sweet Potatoes

    To make this recipe, you only need a few simple ingredients.  These whipped sweet potatoes will work with any color variety.  I have tried it with the purple-skinned but white-fleshed yams as well but find that the common variety of orange sweet potatoes seems to work the best.

    For this recipe, I suggest using a Garnet or Jewel sweet potato.  They work best for mashed, whipped, or casserole recipes. In a pinch, instead of fresh, you can use canned sweet potatoes that are drained and then heated to make these whipped sweet potatoes.

    Along with the sweet potatoes, you will need heavy whipping cream, salted butter, vanilla extract, and some nutmeg.  The vanilla and nutmeg add a depth of flavor by adding some sweet warmth that is also a little bitter in the nutmeg. Plus the vanilla gives a floral sweet aroma and flavor. Both pair beautifully with the sweet potatoes and the dairy from the cream and butter.

    Whipped Sweet Potatoes ingredients on a table sweet potatoes and bowls filled with cream nutmeg vanilla and a stick of butter and diced sweet potatoes
    • Sweet Potatoes
    • Heavy Cream
    • Salted Butter
    • Vanilla Extract
    • Nutmeg
    • Salt & Pepper to taste

    See the recipe card for amounts & instructions.

    How to Make Whipped Sweet Potatoes

    There are only a few easy steps to make this sweet and savory recipe of mashed sweet potatoes.  You will want to be sure to fully cook the sweet potatoes so they are easily mashed and then whipped. This will give them the fluffy texture that makes them so comforting. 

    Simply cook the sweet potatoes, mash them, then whip them with a hand mixer to incorporate all the spices and dairy.  Here is how to make these fantastic whipped sweet potatoes.

    Whipped Sweet Potatoes in a white ramekin.

    Cook the Sweet Potatoes

    The sweet potatoes will need to be fully cooked and soft before you begin whipping them and adding the other ingredients.  You can cook the potatoes in one of two ways. You can either roast them in the oven or you can steam them.  Find out How to roast sweet potatoes in the oven.

    I do not recommend this method personally and here is why. But most importantly, by peeling, cutting, and then cooking them you do not need to handle hot potatoes later on.  When you roast them in the oven, you do so with the skins on.  Therefore, when they are done you either need to let them cool way too long to touch them safely or you end up possibly burning yourself.

    I choose to steam them since that is a faster method and it still retains all the nutrients.     By cubing them into small pieces, they cook fast in the Instant Pot on a steamer basket.   Check out my recipe to find out how to make INSTANT POT CUBED SWEET POTATOES.   

    How to Tell Sweet Potatoes are Cooked

    To determine when the potatoes are ready, I like to use the fork test. Press the fork into the thickest part of the sweet potato. If the tines slide into the sweet potato easily without getting stuck, they are ready. Do not over cook them to the point they fall apart.

    Then when you are ready to begin mashing and whipping them, the sweet potatoes simply get put into a bowl and you do not have to handle any dangerously hot food - ouch HOT POTATO!   

    Instant Pot Cubed Sweet Potatoes raw on the steamer insert in the pressure cooker

    How to Whip Sweet Potatoes

    Once the sweet potatoes are done, add them to a large mixing bowl.   Add the butter and it will start to melt a bit as the potatoes are hot.  At this point, you can use the back of a metal spoon to mash some of the potatoes in the bowl if you are using fully roasted potatoes. 

    If you are using the easier cubed method, you can skip this step. Simply use your hand mixer set on low-medium and begin to whip the butter into the sweet potatoes. The creamed sweet potatoes are just about ready now.

    Mashed vs Whipped Sweet Potatoes

    The difference between mashed and whipped potatoes is simple. Mashed (or riced) potatoes are done by hand where the mashing takes place with a masher and then butter and/or milk are added at the end and stirred in.  For whipped potatoes, the potatoes are whipped or beaten with a hand mixer with the butter and cream added and whipped together.

    Mashing tends to not activate too much starch and holds them intact for a lumpier recipe. Whipping adds air and can activate starch for a soft or fluffy texture.

    • Do not use a food processor, blender, or immersion blender.  It will chop and combine but it will not incorporate the air that whipping does to make the sweet potatoes fluffy and creamy.
    Whipped Sweet Potatoes ready to whip butter and potatoes together

    Once the butter and sweet potatoes are combined, slowly add in the heavy cream.  You will again mix on low-medium speed with the hand mixer.  Scrape the edges with a rubber spatula as needed to fully combine. This should take only about 30 seconds.

    Whipped Sweet Potatoes pouring cream into whipped orange sweet potatoes

    You will notice it becomes a bit more fluffy and airy as the heavy whipping cream gets incorporated into the sweet potato mixture.  For the final step, you will add the nutmeg and vanilla and mix again with the hand mixer for about 15 seconds.   

    Season with salt and pepper and stir to combine. Serve and enjoy!

    Whipped Sweet Potatoes add vanilla and nutmeg

    Substitutions & Variations

    Try one of these alternate ingredients or recipe variations. If you have a food allergy or dietary restriction, hopefully one of these will work for you.

    • Heavy Cream - use coconut milk instead as a non-dairy substitute & omit the butter.
    • Brown Sugar - whip 2 tablespoons into the mixture for a southern whipped potato recipe.
    • Orange Juice - add 2 tablespoons of citrus that brings an acidic balance to the dairy & sweetness.
    • Canned Yams - in a pinch you can substitute drained canned yams for the cooked sweet potatoes in this recipe.

    Whipped sweet potatoes are healthy, vegetarian, and gluten-free. To make it paleo approved use coconut milk and omit the butter.

    Whipped Sweet Potatoes ready to eat overhead image of ramekins filled plus spoon and red napkin

    What to Serve with Sweet Potatoes

    All of these amazing main courses and other side dishes go well to make and eat with sweet potatoes.  This is a fantastic Thanksgiving side dish but it is just as wonderful all year long with your favorite proteins or vegetarian dishes.   

    Whipped sweet potatoes go well with chicken, turkey, pork, duck, or other game. Pick any of these great sides or entrees to serve with sweet potatoes.

    Dry Brine for Smoking a Turkey
    In just 3 days you can have the perfect holiday bird. When you dry brine a turkey, it is so moist and juicy. This works great for turkey, chicken, and other birds when smoking them. (also great if you oven roast or deep fry your turkey too!)
    Check out this recipe
    pat salt for dry brine on a turkey.
    Keto Chicken Nuggets
    Homemade Keto Chicken Nuggets are easy to make & delicious. The grain-free/gluten-free coating is low-carb, crispy & crunchy. Boneless skinless breast bites are deep-fried until juicy on the inside & golden on the outside. The breading of almond flour, parmesan cheese, & spices is flavorful. These are the best & loved by kids & adults.
    Check out this recipe
    plated grain free gluten free keto chicken nuggets with ketchup
    Slow Cooker Corned Beef
    Slow cooker corned beef is an easy way to prepare this St Patrick’s Day classic holiday recipe. It is also wonderful to enjoy this any time of year. Simply dump a few ingredients into the CrockPot and soon the best juicy brisket is ready.
    Check out this recipe
    Slow Cooker Corned Beef featured close up
    Smoked Beef Short Ribs
    The best way to make short ribs in my mind is in the smoker.  The low and slow method of smoking meat breaks down the meat and renders the fat for the most delicate fall-off-the-bone short ribs you will have ever had. 
    Check out this recipe
    Smoked Beef Short Ribs featured portrait plate of ribs in the center and parsley and napkin utensils in the top left
    Butternut Squash, Apple, and Kale Salad with Honey Dijon Vinaigrette
    Butternut squash and kale make the perfect Fall salad. The crunchy pecans, crisp apples, sweet raisins, and roasted butternut squash make the most amazing Autumn harvest salad recipe.
    Check out this recipe
    Butternut Squash, Apple, and Kale Salad with Honey Dijon Vinaigrette
    Oven- Roasted Green Beans
    These delicious oven-roasted green beans will be a family favorite. The nutty sesame seasoning that includes garlic and onion adds so much flavor. This quick & easy recipe is the best thanks to everything but the bagel seasoning that elevates this simple vegetable side dish.
    Check out this recipe
    Plated oven-roasted green beans sprinkles with everything bagel seasoning

    How to Store and Reheat Whipped Sweet Potatoes

    It is easy to store and reheat this recipe. In fact, this is a great make-ahead recipe since it can be made and then reheated later with perfect results. Another reason it is ideal for Thanksgiving is you can make it the day before as it stores well in the refrigerator.   Simply place the whipped sweet potatoes in an air-tight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

    You can also freeze whipped potatoes in an air-tight container for up to a month.  Defrost in the refrigerator for 1-2 days before reheating.

    To reheat whipped sweet potatoes, place them in a microwave-safe bowl.  For this full recipe, heat it for 3 minutes in the microwave, stirring ½ way in between. You can add a few more drops of cream or a pat of butter and stir in as well to bring back a touch of creaminess.

    Whipped Sweet Potatoes ready to eat close up of a ramekin filled and another in the background

    PIN FOR SAFEKEEPING & SHARING!

    Whipped Sweet Potatoes PIN

    Product Recommendations for this Recipe:

     

    The Short Order Cook is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program.  As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.  If you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission on the sale at no additional cost to you. This helps with the costs of running the blog. Thank you! 

    Whipped Sweet Potatoes featured recipe card image of 2 ramekins with whipped orange sweet potatoes topped with a sprig of parsley and spoon and napkin

    Whipped Sweet Potatoes

    Angela
    For a comforting side dish, these whipped sweet potatoes really hit the spot. They are fluffy and sweet with a hint of nutmeg.
    5 from 2 votes
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Prep Time 5 minutes mins
    Cook Time 25 minutes mins
    Total Time 30 minutes mins
    Course Side Dish
    Cuisine American
    Servings 4

    Ingredients
      

    • 3 medium sweet potatoes about 2# total
    • ½ cup heavy whipping cream
    • 3 tablespoons salted butter room temperature
    • ½ teaspoon nutmeg
    • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
    • ½ teaspoon salt
    • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

    Instructions
     

    • Cook the peeled and cubed sweet potatoes in an electric pressure cooker per the INSTANT POT CUBED SWEET POTATO recipe shared above. (an alternate way is roasted in the oven - link also above)
    • Once the sweet potatoes are done, add them to a large mixing bowl.   Add the butter and it will start to melt a bit as the potatoes are hot. 
      Using a hand mixer set on low-medium, begin to whip the butter into the sweet potatoes. 
    • Once the butter and sweet potatoes are combined, slowly add in the heavy cream.  You will again mix on the low-medium speed with the hand mixer.  Scrape the edges with a rubber spatula as needed to fully combine. This should take only about 30 seconds. 
    • For the final step, you will add the nutmeg and vanilla and mix again with the hand mixer for about 15 seconds.     Season with salt and pepper and stir to combine.
    • Serve and enjoy!  

    Notes

    Nutrition Facts
    Servings: 4
    Amount per serving  
    Calories 399
    % Daily Value*
    Total Fat 14.7g 19%
    Saturated Fat 9.1g 45%
    Cholesterol 43mg 14%
    Sodium 378mg 16%
    Total Carbohydrate 64g 23%
    Dietary Fiber 9.4g 34%
    Total Sugars 1.3g  
    Protein 3.9g  
    Vitamin D 14mcg 69%
    Calcium 52mg 4%
    Iron 1mg 7%
    Potassium 1868mg 40%
    *The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a food serving contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calorie a day is used for general nutrition advice.
    Keyword Autumn, creamy, easy, fall, gluten-free, grain-free, healthy, low carb, orange, side dish, sides, starch, thanksgiving, winter

    Did you make this The Short Order Cook Recipe?

    Tag @theshortordercookblog (Instagram & Facebook) or @shortorder_cook (Twitter). 

    I would love to see your latest creations and kitchen adventures.

    « Winter Dinner Ideas
    Wondeful Wednesday Blog Hop #440 »

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

      Leave a Reply Cancel reply

      Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

      Recipe Rating




    1. Regina says

      November 14, 2021 at 7:18 am

      5 stars
      I am not a fan of the sweet marshmallow casseroles so I made this. A new favorite with pork chops.

      Reply
    2. Katie says

      September 14, 2022 at 9:33 pm

      5 stars
      I was shocked by how light these were. They almost melted when you ate then. My 18 month old would yell whenever I stopped feeding her them too. So funny & she must love them.

      Reply
      • Angela says

        September 15, 2022 at 9:32 am

        So cute, she has good taste already. Another foodie in the making!

        Reply

    Primary Sidebar

    Angela the short order cook on a step stool reaching into the top kitchen cupboard.

    Hi, I'm Angela I’m Angela, a petite mom that loves to cook, eat, drink, & explore all things food. I have been cooking since I could pull up a stool to finally reach the counter. I still rely on my trusty stool every day. I am a personal chef & caterer turned blogger that hopes you find something new & tasty to love while you are here.

    More about me →

    This site has links to products/services that may make us a commission. #ad

    Popular

    • Ahi Tuna Poke Nachos with Wontons
    • A set of black pots and pans.
      Best Pots & Pans for Gas Stove
    • Cast Iron Chicken Breast cooked and Sliced in the pan.
      Cast Iron Chicken Breast
    • spicy jalapeno basil moscow mules ready to drink in copper mugs
      Spicy Jalapeno Basil Moscow Mule
    • Homemade Snickers Bars featured 5 stack
      Homemade Snickers Bars
    • Garlic Butter Wings Plated and topped with fresh parsley.
      Garlic Butter Wings
    • A bun topped with 3-ingredient sloppy joe meat and cheese.
      3-Ingredient Sloppy Joes (Gluten-Free)
    • Chocolate Marshmallow Ice Cream Overhead two bowls of ice cream and black napkin.
      Chocolate Marshmallow Ice Cream

    The Short Order Cook LLC is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com

    Footer

    ↑ back to top

    About

    • Privacy Policy
    • Cookie Policy
    • Terms of Service
    • Disclosure Policy

    Newsletter

    • Sign Up! for emails and updates

    Contact

    • Contact
    • Work With Me
    • Meet Angela
    • Meet the Family

    Copyright © 2023 The Short Order Cook LLC All recipes, photos, and articles on this site are the property of The Short Order Cook LLC. You are welcome to share a photo ONLY with an accompanied do-follow link back to this site. Publishing any items as if they were your own is prohibited.

    This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish.AcceptReject Read Privacy Policy
    Privacy & Cookies Policy

    Privacy Overview

    This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience.
    Necessary
    Always Enabled
    Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.
    Non-necessary
    Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.
    SAVE & ACCEPT