Pecan pie double baked sweet potatoes

If you’re looking for a delicious twist on classic Thanksgiving flavors, then you’re going to love these pecan pie double baked sweet potatoes! This recipe combines the comforting sweetness of sweet potatoes with the rich, nutty crunch of pecans, all gently sweetened with maple syrup and spiced with cinnamon. It’s a delightful side dish that can easily steal the show at any gathering. Plus, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or family celebrations. You’ll find that everyone will be asking for seconds!

These pecan pie double baked sweet potatoes are not only tasty but also easy to prepare. You can whip them up ahead of time, and they make a fantastic addition to your holiday table or even as a special treat when you want something warm and comforting.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick prep time: With just 10 minutes of prep, you can focus on enjoying your time with family instead of spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves sweet potatoes! This dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare them in advance and simply reheat before serving. Perfect for busy holidays!
• Deliciously unique: The combination of flavors offers a fresh take on traditional sides, making them memorable.
• Nutritious goodness: Packed with vitamins and fiber, these sweet potatoes are not just tasty; they’re good for you too!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to bring this delightful dish to life! You probably have most of these in your pantry already:

For the Sweet Potatoes

• 4 medium sweet potatoes (washed and dried)
• 2 tbsp butter (salted or unsalted)
• 3 tbsp maple syrup
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 tsp cinnamon

For the Pecan Topping

• 3/4 cup pecans (roughly chopped)
• 1/4 cup flour (you can use oat flour or gluten-free flour instead)
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp maple syrup

Variations

This recipe is flexible, allowing you to customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add more spices: Try incorporating a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for an extra flavor kick.
• Go nut-free: Substitute the pecans with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds if allergies are a concern.
• Sweeten differently: Swap maple syrup with agave nectar or honey if you prefer another natural sweetener.
• Mix in fruits: Add dried cranberries or apples for a fruity twist that complements the sweetness beautifully.

How to Make Pecan pie double baked sweet potatoes

Step 1: Bake the Sweet Potatoes

Start by baking your clean sweet potatoes in a 425°F oven until they are soft in the center—a process that usually takes about 40-55 minutes. This step is crucial because it brings out their natural sweetness. To check if they’re done, simply insert a knife into the center; if it slides in easily, they’re ready!

Step 2: Cool and Prepare

Once they’re done baking, reduce the oven temperature to 350°F and let the sweet potatoes cool until you can comfortably handle them. This pause helps prevent burns while preparing your delicious filling.

Step 3: Scoop and Mash

Slice each sweet potato lengthwise, removing the top part carefully so you can see that beautiful orange flesh. Scoop out most of the insides into a bowl but leave about 1/4 inch in the skin to keep it sturdy. Mash those sweet potato guts together with butter, maple syrup, salt, and cinnamon until smooth and creamy!

Step 4: Stuff Your Sweet Potatoes

Now comes the fun part! Stuff those lovely skins back up with your seasoned mashed sweet potato mixture. Don’t be shy—fill them generously!

Step 5: Create the Pecan Topping

In another bowl, combine chopped pecans, flour, melted butter, and maple syrup to create a crunchy streusel topping. Sprinkle this heavenly mix over each stuffed sweet potato.

Step 6: Bake Again

Pop those stuffed beauties back in the oven for another 20-30 minutes at 350°F until they’re hot through and topped with golden crispy goodness. Your kitchen will smell divine!

And there you have it—delicious pecan pie double baked sweet potatoes that will surely become a cherished favorite at any gathering! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Pecan Pie Double Baked Sweet Potatoes

Creating the perfect pecan pie double baked sweet potatoes is all about attention to detail and a few helpful tricks that can elevate your dish. Here are some pro tips to ensure your sweet potatoes turn out delicious every time!

• Choose the right sweet potatoes: Look for medium-sized, firm sweet potatoes with smooth skin. This ensures even cooking and a creamy texture when baked.

• Don’t skip the cooling step: Allowing the sweet potatoes to cool makes them easier to handle and helps concentrate their natural sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor.

• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground cinnamon can make a world of difference in taste. It adds depth and warmth, making your dish feel more inviting.

• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to mix in additional nuts or even dried fruits into the pecan streusel for an added twist. This can introduce new textures and flavors that will surprise your guests!

• Make ahead of time: You can prepare the mashed sweet potato mixture and pecan topping in advance. Just assemble before baking, which makes it perfect for holiday gatherings!

How to Serve Pecan Pie Double Baked Sweet Potatoes

Presentation is key when serving pecan pie double baked sweet potatoes! Not only do they taste wonderful, but they also look beautiful on any dinner table. Here are some ideas to make this dish shine during your meal.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or mint adds a burst of color and freshness that brightens up each bite.
• Drizzle of maple syrup: A light drizzle over the top enhances the sweetness and gives a lovely glossy finish to your dish.

Side Dishes

• Crispy Brussels sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze bring a savory balance to the sweetness of the double baked sweet potatoes.
• Green bean almondine: Sautéed green beans topped with toasted almonds add crunch and a light, refreshing contrast.
• Quinoa salad: A hearty quinoa salad mixed with seasonal veggies provides protein and fiber while complementing the flavors of your main dish beautifully.
• Stuffed acorn squash: Roasted acorn squash filled with grains and veggies makes for an elegant side that pairs well with the richness of the sweet potatoes.

With these serving suggestions and tips, you’ll be ready to impress everyone at your next gathering with this delightful twist on classic flavors! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This pecan pie double baked sweet potatoes recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious and comforting dish without the last-minute rush. You can make these delightful sweet potatoes ahead of time, store them properly, and enjoy them when you’re ready!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cooked sweet potatoes to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 3-4 days for the best flavor and texture.

Freezing

• After baking and cooling, wrap each sweet potato tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped sweet potatoes in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Store in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For refrigerated leftovers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Unwrap the sweet potatoes and place them on a baking sheet.
• Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
• For frozen sweet potatoes, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making pecan pie double baked sweet potatoes.

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?

Absolutely! While this recipe features pecans, you can easily substitute them with walnuts or almonds if you prefer. Just chop them up roughly and follow the same steps for topping your sweet potatoes.

How do I know when my pecan pie double baked sweet potatoes are done?

Your pecan pie double baked sweet potatoes are done when the filling is hot and the topping is golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them during the final baking stage to achieve that perfect crunch!

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! To make vegan pecan pie double baked sweet potatoes, simply replace butter with a plant-based alternative and use maple syrup as your sweetener. You’ll still enjoy all the delicious flavors!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about making these pecan pie double baked sweet potatoes as I am! This recipe brings together sweetness and warmth, making it a wonderful treat for any occasion. Whether you serve it as a dessert or a side dish, it’s bound to be a hit at your table. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experience—I’d love to hear how yours turned out!