Pecan pie double baked sweet potatoes

If you’re looking for a delightful twist on traditional sweet potatoes, you’ve come to the right place! These Pecan pie double baked sweet potatoes are a cozy, delicious way to elevate any meal. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes, combined with the crunchy pecan topping and a hint of maple syrup, creates a dish that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or even a comforting weeknight dinner. I love how this recipe brings together flavors that remind me of Thanksgiving while still being simple enough for any occasion.

What makes this recipe special is its versatility and ease. You can whip it up as a side dish or serve it as an indulgent dessert. With just a few wholesome ingredients, you’ll impress your family and friends with minimal effort!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together with just a few steps, making it perfect for busy days.
• Family Favorite: Everyone loves the sweet, nutty flavors that come together so beautifully.
• Make Ahead: Prep the sweet potatoes in advance, and bake them just before serving to save time!
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vitamins from sweet potatoes and healthy fats from pecans.
• Versatile Use: Great as both a side dish and dessert; it fits perfectly into any meal plan.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe features simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Each one plays a vital role in creating those mouthwatering flavors we all crave.

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 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 cup flour (can use oat flour or GF flour instead)
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp maple syrup

Variations

One of the best things about these Pecan pie double baked sweet potatoes is how flexible they are! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients to suit your taste.

• Add More Spice: Consider adding nutmeg or ginger for an extra kick of warmth.
• Nut-Free Option: Swap out pecans for sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds if you have nut allergies.
• Sweeten It Up: If you want even more sweetness, add some brown sugar to the filling.
• Mix in Fruits: Throw in chopped apples or cranberries for added texture and flavor.

How to Make Pecan pie double baked sweet potatoes

Step 1: Bake the Sweet Potatoes

Start by baking your clean sweet potatoes in a preheated oven at 425°F until they’re soft—this usually takes about 40-55 minutes. Checking doneness with a knife is key here; when it slides in easily, they’re ready! This initial baking step brings out their natural sweetness.

Step 2: Cool Down & Prepare

Once done, reduce the oven temperature to 350°F and let the sweet potatoes cool until you can handle them comfortably. This will prevent burns and make it easy to scoop out their insides without damaging the skins.

Step 3: Scoop & Mash

Carefully slice the sweet potatoes lengthwise about three-quarters of the way up and scoop out the flesh into a bowl. Leave about a quarter-inch of potato in the skin—this helps keep everything stable when you fill them later. Mashing them will create a creamy base that will hold all those delicious flavors!

Step 4: Mix It All Together

Now it’s time to mix! Combine your mashed sweet potato with butter, maple syrup, salt, and cinnamon. This mixture is where all those warm flavors come together beautifully. Make sure everything is well combined for even flavor distribution.

Step 5: Fill & Top

Stuff each potato skin generously with your seasoned mash. Then sprinkle on your pecan streusel topping—this crunchy layer adds such an amazing texture contrast!

Step 6: Bake Again

Bake these beauties again at 350°F for another 20-30 minutes until they’re heated through and lovely golden brown on top. This final baking not only warms everything up but also crisps up that topping into perfection.

And there you have it! Your Pecan pie double baked sweet potatoes are ready to wow everyone at your table! Enjoy every bite of this wonderful dish!

Pro Tips for Making Pecan Pie Double Baked Sweet Potatoes

Creating the perfect pecan pie double baked sweet potatoes is a delightful journey, and with a few handy tips, you can elevate your dish to new heights!

• Choose the Right Sweet Potatoes: Opt for medium-sized, firm sweet potatoes without blemishes for the best flavor and texture. This ensures they cook evenly and have a naturally sweet taste.

• Don’t Skip the Cinnamon: Adding an extra dash of cinnamon not only enhances the warmth of this dish but also complements the nutty flavor of the pecans beautifully. It’s all about that cozy aroma!

• Use Fresh Pecans: Chop up fresh pecans right before using them for maximum crunch and flavor. Stale nuts can dull your dish’s overall taste, so freshness is key.

• Consider Gluten-Free Options: If you’re accommodating gluten-free diets, using oat flour or a gluten-free flour blend works perfectly in the topping. Your guests won’t even notice the difference!

• Check Sweetness Levels: Depending on your preference, feel free to adjust the amount of maple syrup. Taste as you go to find that perfect balance of sweetness that suits your palate.

How to Serve Pecan Pie Double Baked Sweet Potatoes

Presentation is everything when it comes to making this dish shine at your table! Here are some creative ideas to serve these delicious treats.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives adds a pop of color and a fresh flavor contrast that brightens the dish.
• Drizzle of Maple Syrup: A light drizzle of maple syrup over the top just before serving accentuates the sweetness and gives it an appealing glossy finish.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These crispy little veggies add depth with their slightly bitter flavor, creating a perfect balance with the sweetness of your sweet potatoes.

• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a zesty lemon dressing brings a lightness that complements this rich dish wonderfully.

• Green Bean Almondine: Sautéed green beans topped with toasted almonds provide a lovely crunch and a touch of elegance to your meal while still keeping things wholesome.

• Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce pairs beautifully with sweet potatoes, adding brightness and acidity that cuts through their richness.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your pecan pie double baked sweet potatoes will be an absolute hit at any gathering! Enjoy crafting this heartwarming dish that celebrates both tradition and creativity in every bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

This pecan pie double baked sweet potatoes recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious dish without the last-minute rush. Here’s how you can store and reheat your delightful creations!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the sweet potatoes to cool completely at room temperature.
• Transfer them to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Wrap each stuffed sweet potato tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just make sure to label them!

Reheating

• Thaw frozen sweet potatoes in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the sweet potatoes on a baking sheet and cover with foil to prevent over-browning.
• Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe.

Can I make pecan pie double baked sweet potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare and stuff the sweet potatoes a day in advance, then bake them just before serving. This makes it convenient for gatherings or busy weeknights.

What are some variations of pecan pie double baked sweet potatoes?

Feel free to experiment by adding different toppings like coconut flakes, chocolate chips, or even a drizzle of nut butter. You can also swap out pecans for other nuts like walnuts or almonds!

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

When baking for the second time, look for a golden brown topping and ensure the filling is heated thoroughly. A knife inserted into the center should come out warm.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these pecan pie double baked sweet potatoes! This recipe beautifully combines the comforting flavors of autumn with a twist that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your own variations! Happy cooking!