Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Sugared Walnuts

MASHED SWEET POTAOTES

4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and coarsely chopped
Nonstick cooking spray/oil
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 or oil. 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.

From Harried Housewife Blog