The way we have always done sweet potatoes in my family was to wash and peel them,(about 5 or 6), cut into chunks(my husband does this with an electric knife) then boil till tender. Then drain and put in cast iron dutch oven skillet. Then add 1 stick of margarine, about 1/2 cup of white karo syrup, & brown sugar using the "add and taste" method. It all depends on how sweet you want them to be. If you want the pumpkin pie taste then I would add pumpkin pie spice, using small amount at a time and taste before adding more. We always used an old fashioned potato masher to mix and mash everything together. Have you heat between low and medium so they don't scorch and just let them simmer stirring often to make sure they are not sticking and adjusting heat down if need be. They are always a family favorite during the holidays. Very yummy!! There are never any leftovers.