Transform a traditional holiday side into something bold and beautiful using smoked paprika (hot or sweet) and cayenne. This dish couldn’t be simpler to prepare, requiring just a handful of ingredients and yielding a result that’s sweet, savory, and delicious.

　　

Ingredients

makes 8 servings

　　3 pounds sweet potatoes

　　1/2 stick (1/4 cup) unsalted butter, cut into 1/2-inch cubes and softened

　　1/3 cup heavy cream

　　1/4 teaspoon sweet or hot smoked paprika

　　1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste

　　1/8 teaspoon cayenne, or to taste

　　

Step 1

Put the oven rack in the middle position and preheat the oven to 400°F.

　　

Step 2

Prick each potato once with a fork, then bake potatoes in a foil-lined shallow baking pan until tender, about 1 hour. When cool enough to handle, peel, then cut away any dark spots. Purée the potatoes with the butter, cream, paprika, salt, and cayenne in a food processor until smooth.

　　

do ahead

Step 3

The PURÉE can be made 1 day ahead and chilled in an airtight container. Reheat in a double boiler or a metal bowl set over a saucepan of simmering water, stirring occasionally.

　　The Epicurious Cookbook