Irresistible Sweet Potato Soufflé Recipe with Bourbon Sauce

Posted on October 29, 2025

Introduction

The aroma of roasted sweet potatoes and warm spices wafting through the kitchen is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. Sweet potato soufflé is one of those dishes that feels so indulgent, yet it’s surprisingly simple to prepare. The addition of a rich, buttery bourbon sauce takes this recipe to a whole new level, making it a show-stopping centerpiece for any meal.

I first tried sweet potato soufflé at a holiday dinner, and I was immediately hooked. It was creamy, sweet, and perfectly spiced—a decadent twist on a classic comfort food. After experimenting with different ingredients and techniques, I created my own version, adding a silky bourbon sauce for a little extra flair. Let me tell you, it’s been a hit at every gathering since!

Whether you’re preparing for the holidays or just looking for a way to use up those sweet potatoes sitting in your pantry, this irresistible sweet potato soufflé with bourbon sauce is the recipe for you. It’s perfect for entertaining or treating yourself to a cozy night in. Trust me, once you make this dish, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich and Velvety Texture: The combination of whipped sweet potatoes and creamy ingredients creates an airy, melt-in-your-mouth soufflé that’s simply divine.
Perfect for Any Occasion: This dish is a crowd-pleaser at Thanksgiving dinner, a comforting side for Sunday roasts, or even a standalone dessert when you’re craving something sweet.
A Unique Flavor Twist: The bourbon sauce adds a sophisticated touch, balancing the natural sweetness of the potatoes with a warm, caramel-like depth.
Simple Ingredients: You don’t need a fancy shopping list—most of these ingredients are pantry staples or easy to find at your local grocery store.
Customizable: Whether you want to make it gluten-free, dairy-free, or add your own spin, this recipe is easily adaptable to fit your needs.

What sets this recipe apart is the balance of flavors and textures. It’s not overly sweet or heavy, but it’s indulgent enough to make any meal feel special. Plus, the bourbon sauce is a game-changer—it’s the kind of finishing touch that makes people ask for the recipe after just one bite.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This sweet potato soufflé recipe combines wholesome ingredients with a touch of indulgence. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Sweet Potato Soufflé:

3 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 2-3 large sweet potatoes, baked and peeled)
2 large eggs
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup milk (use almond milk for a dairy-free option)
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Bourbon Sauce:

1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup light brown sugar, packed
1/4 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup bourbon (use maple syrup for a non-alcoholic option)
Pinch of salt

These ingredients come together in harmony to create a dish that’s both comforting and gourmet. Feel free to experiment with substitutions if needed—this recipe is forgiving and versatile!

Equipment Needed

Medium mixing bowls
Hand mixer or stand mixer (for the fluffiest texture)
Baking dish (around 9×9 inches works well)
Small saucepan (for the bourbon sauce)
Spatula or wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons

If you don’t have a hand mixer, a whisk and some elbow grease will do the trick—it just takes a bit more time and effort. For a budget-friendly option, any oven-safe dish can work as a substitute for a fancy soufflé dish. Just make sure it’s deep enough to hold the soufflé as it expands.

Preparation Method

Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash your sweet potatoes and pierce them with a fork. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for about 45-60 minutes, or until they’re fork-tender. Let them cool slightly, then peel and mash until smooth. Set aside.
Make the Soufflé Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, eggs, sugar, melted butter, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Use a hand mixer to beat the mixture until light and fluffy.
Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Pour the sweet potato mixture into the dish and smooth out the top with a spatula.
Bake the Soufflé: Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake the soufflé for 40-45 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
Prepare the Bourbon Sauce: While the soufflé is baking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar and cook until dissolved. Add the heavy cream and bourbon, then simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens slightly.
Serve: Allow the soufflé to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Drizzle the warm bourbon sauce over the top and enjoy!

Pro Tip: If your soufflé cracks slightly on top, don’t stress—it adds character! The sauce will cover it beautifully and no one will notice.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Making a soufflé can feel intimidating, but it’s actually quite straightforward with a few helpful tips:

Whip it good: The key to a fluffy texture is incorporating air into the mixture. Don’t skip the step of whipping the sweet potatoes with the eggs and other ingredients.
Don’t overbake: The center of your soufflé should still have a slight jiggle when it’s done. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture.
Use fresh sweet potatoes: While canned is convenient, fresh sweet potatoes have a deeper, richer flavor that makes this dish shine.
Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet soufflé, reduce the sugar slightly. You can also use coconut sugar or honey as an alternative.
Test your bourbon sauce: Taste the sauce after simmering and adjust to your preference—add a touch more bourbon if you want it richer or more cream if it’s too sweet.

Variations & Adaptations

Gluten-Free Option: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but double-check your bourbon and other ingredients for hidden gluten.
Dairy-Free Version: Replace butter with vegan butter or coconut oil, and use almond or oat milk instead of regular milk. For the sauce, swap heavy cream with coconut cream.
Nutty Topping: Add a crunchy pecan topping before baking by mixing chopped pecans, brown sugar, and a touch of melted butter. Sprinkle over the soufflé before putting it in the oven.
Spice It Up: Experiment with spices like ginger or cardamom to give your soufflé a unique flavor profile.
No-Bourbon Sauce: If you prefer to skip the alcohol, substitute the bourbon with maple syrup or vanilla extract for a family-friendly version.

One of my favorite twists is adding a pinch of cayenne to the bourbon sauce for a subtle kick—it’s unexpected but delicious!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve your sweet potato soufflé warm, topped with the luscious bourbon sauce. It pairs wonderfully with roasted turkey or glazed ham for a holiday feast, but it’s equally delicious on its own as a dessert. A dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar makes it even more inviting.

If you have leftovers (though that’s rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the soufflé in a warm oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 30-60 seconds.

Pro Tip: The flavors deepen after a day or two, making leftovers even more irresistible!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Sweet potatoes are a nutritional powerhouse, packed with vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. They’re also a great source of complex carbohydrates, providing energy without the sugar crash.

This recipe is naturally gluten-free and can be adapted for various dietary needs. By using dairy-free alternatives, you can enjoy a vegan-friendly version that’s just as delicious.

While the bourbon sauce adds some indulgence, you can adjust the sweetness to your liking or even skip it entirely for a lighter option. Either way, this dish is a healthier alternative to traditional sugary desserts.

Conclusion

This irresistible sweet potato soufflé with bourbon sauce is the perfect combination of comfort and indulgence. The creamy texture, warm spices, and decadent sauce make it an unforgettable dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends.

Feel free to make it your own by trying out the variations or adding your favorite seasonal ingredients. Whether it becomes a holiday tradition or a weeknight treat, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again.

I’d love to hear how this recipe turns out for you! Leave a comment below, share your photos, and let me know how you customized it. Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite!

FAQs

Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can! While fresh sweet potatoes offer a richer flavor, canned sweet potatoes work in a pinch. Just make sure to drain them well before mashing.

Can I make this soufflé ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the soufflé and refrigerate it before baking. When you’re ready to serve, bake it as directed. You can also make the bourbon sauce ahead and reheat it gently before serving.

What can I use instead of bourbon?

If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, you can swap the bourbon for maple syrup or vanilla extract in the sauce. It will still have a deliciously rich flavor.

How can I prevent my soufflé from cracking?

To avoid cracks, don’t overbake the soufflé. Keep an eye on it and remove it from the oven when the center is still slightly jiggly. Cracks are perfectly normal and won’t affect the taste!

Can I freeze sweet potato soufflé?

Yes, you can freeze it! Wrap the soufflé tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Defrost in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven before serving.