Vanilla Mashed Sweet Potatoes

These are SO good. My kids request these over the marshmallow ones every single time.

• Ready In: 1 hr 5 mins
• Serves: 4-6
• Yields: 1 cup

Ingredients

• 1 1⁄2 lbs sweet potatoes, cleaned and left damp
• 1⁄2 cup  plus 3 tablespoons half-and-half
• 1⁄2 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
• 1  teaspoon  grated orange zest
• 2  tablespoons butter, at room temperature
• 1  pinch kosher salt
• 1  pinch white pepper

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F Put potatoes on baking sheet and bake until fork tender, approximately 1 hour.
2. Remove from oven and let cool until just cool enough to handle. Peel and discard skins. Set aside in a covered bowl.
3. Pour half and half into a 2 quart pot. Add vanilla and orange zest. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes.
4. Mash sweet potatoes and butter with a potato masher or mixer on low. Slowly add vanilla milk mixture until potatoes reach desired consistency.
5. Season with kosher salt and white pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm.