Oh my goodness, Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and you know what that means! It’s time to whip up something that not only tastes amazing but also shows some love to those we care about. One of my absolute favorite recipes for this special day has to be Slow Cooker Sweet Potatoes with Cinnamon. Trust me, these beauties are a game-changer!
I remember the first time I made these sweet potatoes. I was trying to impress my partner, who has an unparalleled love for all things sweet and delicious. I threw these in the slow cooker, and by the time dinner rolled around, the house smelled like a warm hug! The combination of the creamy sweet potatoes and the warm cinnamon is just heavenly. Not to mention, it’s practically foolproof! Just set it and forget it, and you’ll have a delightful side dish that even the most discerning of palates will adore.
What’s in Slow Cooker Sweet Potatoes with Cinnamon?
Sweet Potatoes: The stars of the show! Not only are these vibrant tubers naturally sweet, but they’re also packed with vitamins and minerals. I usually go for medium to large ones, as they cook beautifully and turn tender in the slow cooker.
Cinnamon: This spice adds a warm, comforting flavor that makes these sweet potatoes shine. I always opt for Ceylon cinnamon if I can find it, as it has a more delicate flavor compared to regular cassia cinnamon.
Brown Sugar: This is entirely optional, but a little sweetness can enhance the natural sugars in the sweet potatoes. Plus, it gives them a caramelized flavor that feels like a warm hug!
Butter: A touch of butter adds richness and creaminess. If you’re dairy-free, feel free to swap it out for coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute.
Salt: Just a pinch to elevate all the flavors! It may seem odd, but salt helps to bring out the sweetness in the sweet potatoes.
Is Slow Cooker Sweet Potatoes with Cinnamon Good for You?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes are nutrition powerhouses, loaded with vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. These nutrients can help support your immune system and promote healthy skin. However, if you’re watching your sugar intake, you may want to limit how much brown sugar you add or leave it out completely.
Sweet Potatoes: These colorful delights are high in fiber, which can aid in digestion, and rich in beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A in the body. Perfect for giving your health a boost!
Cinnamon: Research suggests that cinnamon may help regulate blood sugar levels and has anti-inflammatory properties. Who knew something so delicious could have health benefits too?
Ingredients List
– 4 medium to large sweet potatoes (peeled and cubed)
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (Ceylon if possible)
– 3 tablespoons brown sugar (optional)
– 2 tablespoons butter (or coconut oil for dairy-free)
– A pinch of salt
– Water (just enough to cover the sweet potatoes)
This recipe yields about 4 servings, perfect for sharing the love!
How to Make Slow Cooker Sweet Potatoes with Cinnamon?
1. Start by peeling and cubing your sweet potatoes into even pieces, about 1-inch cubes.
2. Toss the cubed sweet potatoes into your slow cooker.
3. Sprinkle the ground cinnamon and brown sugar (if using) over the sweet potatoes.
4. Add the butter and a pinch of salt.
5. Pour enough water into the slow cooker to just cover the sweet potatoes.
6. Cover and set your slow cooker to low for 6-8 hours, or on high for about 3-4 hours. Go about your day and let the magic happen!
7. Once they’re done, check for tenderness. If they’re soft enough to mash easily with a fork, you’re golden!
8. Give them a good stir and taste. Adjust sweetness with more brown sugar if desired.
A Sweet Touch!
Here are some fun variations and tips that I like to use when making these sweet potatoes:
– For a nutty crunch, toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
– Add a splash of vanilla extract for an aromatic twist!
– If you adore spices, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for complexity.
– Top with mini marshmallows in the last few minutes of cooking for an indulgent, dessert-like experience.
Trust me, these Slow Cooker Sweet Potatoes with Cinnamon will make your Valentine swoon! I would love to hear how yours turn out. Give them a try and don’t forget to sprinkle a little love into everything you do. Happy cooking and Happy Valentine’s Day!