Scalloped Sweet Potatoes with Apples and Cinnamon – A Cozy, Flavorful Side

If you’re looking for a cozy side dish that tastes like autumn in every bite, Scalloped Sweet Potatoes with Apples and Cinnamon is calling your name. Imagine tender, thin-sliced sweet potatoes braided with crisp apple rounds, all bathed in a creamy, cinnamon-scented sauce. It’s a dish that feels special enough for a holiday table, yet simple enough for a weeknight dinner when you want something comforting and heartwarming. As you read through this article, you’ll find a practical, easy-to-follow path to make this dish your own, with tips and tweaks to suit your taste and pantry.

The beauty of this recipe lies in how approachable it is. You don’t need fancy equipment or long ingredient lists. A few everyday items come together to create something that’s both nostalgic and a little adventurous. The apples add a gentle sweetness and brightness to the richness of the cream, while cinnamon and a hint of nutmeg wrap everything in warm, homey spices. The texture is what really delights: creamy sauce that seeps into every layer, with tender slices that hold their shape and a subtle cheese crust if you choose to add it.

As you prepare, you’ll notice how the dish builds flavor in stages. Layering the potatoes and apples creates pockets of contrast—a starchy base with a crisp, fruity bite. The creamy base is lightly seasoned; there’s enough spice to feel cozy, not overpowering. This balance makes it a versatile side that pairs beautifully with roasted poultry, pork, or a hearty vegetarian main. Ready for a friendly kitchen moment? Let’s walk through it together, step by step, and you’ll have a skillet- or dish-ready delight that tastes like it came from a small, warmly lit cafe.

Table of contents

Why You’ll Love This Scalloped Sweet Potatoes with Apples and Cinnamon
Ingredients for Scalloped Sweet Potatoes with Apples and Cinnamon
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Scalloped Sweet Potatoes with Apples and Cinnamon
Timing & Preparation Details
Nutritional Snapshot
Frequently Asked Questions
Scalloped Sweet Potatoes with Apples and Cinnamon

Why You’ll Love This Scalloped Sweet Potatoes with Apples and Cinnamon

There’s something uniquely appealing about combining fall fruits with a classic scalloped approach. Here’s why this version feels special:

Comforting yet fresh: The apples lend a gentle sweetness and bright note that lightens the dish while the cinnamon keeps it cozy.
Flexible and forgiving: The recipe uses simple ingredients you’re likely to have on hand, and it’s easy to scale up for a crowd.
Texture contrast: Thin potato and apple slices create even layers that meld into a creamy, spoon-worthy slice with a subtle crust on top if you add cheese.
Make-ahead friendly: You can assemble the dish ahead of time and bake when ready, making it ideal for busy weekends or holiday meals.

Ingredients for Scalloped Sweet Potatoes with Apples and Cinnamon

Here’s what you’ll need. I’ve included a short note about each item’s role to help you understand why it’s in the mix.

2 medium sweet potatoes – thinly sliced to layer into soft, custard-like textures.
Role: The star base of the dish, providing sweetness and creaminess when cooked gently.
2 large apples – thinly sliced; apples add brightness and a subtle tart-sweet balance.
Role: Introduces fruit sweetness and a slight tang that complements the spice.
1 cup whole milk – forms the light base of the creamy sauce.
Role: Creates a silky sauce that soaks into every layer without heaviness.
1/2 cup heavy cream – enriches the sauce and helps achieve a luscious mouthfeel.
Role: Adds depth and a subtle indulgence to the finish.
2 tablespoons melted butter – binds the sauce and adds a gentle richness.
Role: Improves flavor and helps the top caramelize a bit.
2 tablespoons brown sugar – a touch of sweetness to enhance the apples.
Role: Balances spices and adds a mild caramel note.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – the warm, cozy spice that defines the dish.
Role: Core flavor that ties the apples and potatoes together.
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg – a delicate nod to classic fall flavors.
Role: Adds depth and a hint of warmth without overpowering.
1/4 teaspoon salt – balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
Role: Brings out the dish’s natural flavors.
1/2 cup grated sharp cheese (optional, such as Gruyère or cheddar)
Role: Creates a golden, bubbly crust and extra savory contrast.
Freshly ground black pepper – a small pinch for balance.
Role: Accent that rounds out the flavors.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Scalloped Sweet Potatoes with Apples and Cinnamon

Prepare the oven and dish: Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Lightly butter a shallow baking dish and set aside so the layers don’t stick and the top browns nicely.
Make the creamy base: In a small bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and a pinch of pepper. This will be the silky backbone of the dish.
Layer the potatoes and apples: Arrange a layer of sweet potato slices along the bottom, then top with a layer of apple slices. Repeat in alternating layers until the dish is filled, finishing with a potato layer on top.
Add the base and optional crust: Pour the creamy mixture evenly over the layered slices. If you’re using cheese, sprinkle it over the top for a cheese-crusted finish that bakes to a golden hue.
Bake covered, then uncover: Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is lightly browned.
Rest and serve: Let the dish rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. This helps the sauce thicken a bit and makes serving easier.

Timing & Preparation Details

Active prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes (approximately 30 minutes covered, 15–20 minutes uncovered)
Chill/Rest time: 5–10 minutes after baking before serving
Make-ahead option: You can assemble the layers up to the point of pouring the cream mixture, refrigerate overnight, and bake the next day for a fresh finish.
Served warm, the dish tastes best with a light, refreshing side salad or a bright vegetable to balance the richness.

Nutritional Snapshot

Approximate per-serving values (based on 4 servings, recipe as written with optional cheese not included):

Calories: 320
Protein: 6 g
Carbohydrates: 38 g
Fat: 16 g
Saturated Fat: 9 g
Fiber: 4 g
Sugar: 14 g

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?

Yes, you can substitute regular potatoes, but the flavor and color will be different. Sweet potatoes add natural sweetness and more creaminess, which pairs beautifully with apples and cinnamon.

What if I don’t want to use cheese on top?

The dish will still be delicious without cheese. The creamy sauce and the caramelized edges will be flavorful on their own. If you like, you can sprinkle a tiny bit of grated Parmesan for a savory note without a full cheese crust.

How can I adapt this for a vegan version?

Use plant-based milk (unsweetened almond or oat milk works well) and a dairy-free butter substitute. Omit the cheese or use a vegan cheese if you like. The sauce may be a touch lighter, but the cinnamon-apple pairing remains wonderful.