Description
This Sweet Potato Cranberry Gratin is a warm, colorful, and cozy holiday side dish combining tender sweet potatoes with bright, tart cranberries. Layered with seasoned cream and baked to perfection, it’s festive, comforting, and stunning on any Christmas or Thanksgiving table. Simple to prepare yet impressive to serve, this gratin brings elegance and joyful flavor to every winter gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 3–4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh rosemary or thyme
- Extra cranberries
- Maple syrup drizzle
- Toasted pecans or walnuts
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Slice Sweet Potatoes: Use a mandoline or sharp knife to slice sweet potatoes thinly and evenly.
- Mix Cream Base: In a bowl, whisk together heavy cream, melted butter, maple syrup, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and pepper.
- Layer Ingredients: Arrange a layer of sweet potatoes, scatter cranberries on top, and spoon over some cream mixture. Repeat layers.
- Cover & Bake: Cover tightly with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 40–45 minutes.
- Brown the Top: Remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until lightly golden.
- Rest Before Serving: Let sit at least 10 minutes for clean slices and best texture.
Preparation Tips:
- Choose firm, smooth sweet potatoes.
- Slice evenly for consistent baking.
- Use fresh or frozen cranberries—no need to thaw.
- Avoid using too many cranberries to maintain balance.
Expert Tips:
- Add orange zest for bright holiday flavor.
- Swap half the cream for coconut milk to lighten.
- Add rosemary or toasted nuts for aroma and crunch.
- Let the gratin rest before slicing.
Storage & Reheating:
- Refrigerate up to 4 days in an airtight container.
- Freeze up to 2 months; thaw overnight.
- Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes.
Notes
- Try adding thin apple slices for a fruity layer.
- Top with pecans, cinnamon, or maple syrup before serving.
- Add orange zest or ginger for a festive twist.
- Make dairy-free using coconut milk.
- Pairs well with hot apple cider, chai tea, ginger tea, or cinnamon milk.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American