Prep Time: ~20 minutes
Bake Time: ~45–55 minutes
Total Time: ~1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: ~8 servings
Introduction
Sweet Potato Cranberry Gratin is a festive, comforting side dish that layers tender sweet potatoes with tart cranberries and a buttery, golden topping. This colorful gratin brings perfect balance to holiday dinners, family meals, or special gatherings — combining creamy, sweet, and tart flavors in every bite.
Why This Dish Is So Popular
This gratin pairs naturally sweet potatoes with juicy cranberries for a delightful contrast of flavors. Sweet and tart notes meld beautifully during baking, while a crunchy topping adds texture. Easy to prepare and stunning on the table, it’s a holiday favorite everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Sweet Potato Layers
- 4–5 large sweet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 ½ cups fresh or frozen cranberries
- 2–4 tablespoons brown sugar (to taste)
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: orange zest or juice for brightness
For the Topping
- ½ cup panko crumbs or chopped pecans
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- Optional: a pinch of cinnamon
The Art of Sweet Potato Cranberry Gratin
This gratin depends on evenly sliced sweet potatoes and well-distributed cranberries. Seasoning brings warmth, while a crumble topping adds texture. Baking until the topping is golden and the potatoes are tender gives the perfect creamy interior and crisp exterior contrast.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat & Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly grease a baking dish.
2. Layer Sweet Potatoes
Arrange a layer of sweet potato slices across the bottom of the dish.
3. Add Cranberries & Seasoning
Scatter cranberries over the sweet potatoes.
Sprinkle with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and optional orange zest or juice.
4. Continue Layering
Repeat layers of sweet potatoes, cranberries, and seasoning until all ingredients are used.
5. Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, combine panko crumbs or pecans, brown sugar, melted butter, and optional cinnamon.
Mix until evenly coated.
6. Add Topping
Sprinkle the crumb mixture evenly over the layered sweet potatoes and cranberries.
7. Bake
Cover with foil and bake 30–35 minutes.
Remove foil and bake an additional 10–20 minutes, until potatoes are tender and the topping is golden brown.
8. Cool & Serve
Let the gratin rest for a few minutes before serving warm.
Tips for Best Results
- Slice the sweet potatoes evenly for uniform cooking.
- Add orange zest or juice for a bright citrus touch.
- Toast nuts lightly before mixing for extra flavor.
- If the top browns too fast, cover lightly with foil partway through baking.
Creative Variations
- Maple Twist: add a drizzle of maple syrup over the top.
- Savory Style: add rosemary or thyme and reduce sugar.
- Marshmallow Top: add mini marshmallows during the final minutes of baking for a sweet finish.
- Nut Crunch: use a mix of pecans and almonds in the topping.
- Spice Boost: add a pinch of ginger or allspice for warmth.
Storage & Freshness
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Conclusion
Sweet Potato Cranberry Gratin is a colorful, flavorful, and satisfying side dish ideal for holiday feasts and cozy family dinners. With sweet, tart, and crunchy elements, it brings both warmth and festive flair to the table.
