Herb Scalloped Sweet Potatoes and Bacon Au Gratin

• 2 pounds sweet potatoes (about 3-4 medium potatoes)
• 8 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
• 2 1/2 cups grated gruyere cheese (about 8 ounces)
• 1 tablespoon butter, cut into 8 cubes

Herb Cream

• 3 cups heavy cream
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 3 bay leaves
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped or 1 tsp. dried)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (or 1 tsp. dried)
• 1 1/2 teaspoons fresh thyme (or 1/2 tsp. dried)
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper