Pecan pie double baked sweet potatoes

If you’re looking for a delightful twist on traditional sweet potatoes, let me introduce you to my favorite Pecan pie double baked sweet potatoes. This recipe is the perfect blend of creamy sweet potato goodness topped with a crunchy pecan streusel. It’s gently sweetened with maple syrup and spiced with cinnamon, making it a fantastic addition to any meal—be it a cozy family dinner or a festive holiday gathering. The best part? It’s as comforting as it is delicious!

These double-baked sweet potatoes are not only a treat for your taste buds but also a lovely way to impress your friends and family. They’re simple enough for busy weeknights yet fancy enough to serve at special occasions. Trust me, once you taste these, you’ll want to make them again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have an impressive dish ready in no time.
• Family-friendly appeal: Sweet potatoes and pecans are sure to please even the pickiest eaters!
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare the filling in advance and bake when you’re ready to serve.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of warm spices and crunchy nuts creates an irresistible taste experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this recipe! You probably have many of these on hand already, making it easy to whip up this delicious dish anytime.

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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with your own spin on these Pecan pie double baked sweet potatoes.

• Add some fruit: Mix in some diced apples or pears for added sweetness and texture.
• Go nut-free: Substitute sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds if you need to avoid nuts.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for a different flavor profile.
• Change the base: Swap out sweet potatoes for butternut squash for a unique twist!

How to Make Pecan pie double baked sweet potatoes

Step 1: Bake the Sweet Potatoes

Start by baking the clean sweet potatoes in a preheated 425°F oven until soft in the center. This usually takes about 40-55 minutes. Checking doneness is simple—just insert a knife into the center; if it slides in easily, they’re ready! This step is crucial as it brings out their natural sweetness.

Step 2: Cool and Prepare

Once they’re done baking, reduce the heat to 350°F and let those sweet potatoes cool down until they are safe to handle. This cooling period ensures you won’t burn your hands while working with them later!

Step 3: Scoop and Mash

Carefully slice each sweet potato lengthwise, about 3/4 of the way up. Remove the top and scoop out most of the flesh into a medium bowl. Be sure to leave about 1/4 inch inside—this helps maintain structure when stuffing them later. Now mash that sweet potato goodness together with butter, maple syrup, salt, and cinnamon until it’s creamy and combined.

Step 4: Stuff Those Potatoes

Time to fill those skins! Spoon the deliciously seasoned mashed sweet potato mixture back into each skin. Don’t be shy—pack it in there!

Step 5: Make the Pecan Topping

In another bowl, blend together chopped pecans, flour, cinnamon, more butter, and maple syrup until crumbly. This topping adds an irresistible crunch that complements the creamy filling perfectly.

Step 6: Final Bake

Top your stuffed sweet potatoes with that lovely pecan streusel you just made. Bake them again for about 20-30 minutes at 350°F until everything is hot through and golden brown on top.

And there you have it—a scrumptious dish of Pecan pie double baked sweet potatoes that will surely become a new favorite at your table! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Pecan Pie Double Baked Sweet Potatoes

Creating the perfect pecan pie double baked sweet potatoes is a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll be sure to impress your family and friends!

• Choose the right sweet potatoes: Opt for medium-sized sweet potatoes that are firm and free from blemishes. This ensures they cook evenly and have the best flavor.

• Don’t rush the baking: Allow the sweet potatoes to bake thoroughly at 425F until soft. Undercooked sweet potatoes can lead to a less creamy filling in your final dish.

• Be generous with spices: Adding a little extra cinnamon or experimenting with nutmeg can elevate the flavors of your filling, making it taste even more like dessert.

• Use fresh pecans: Toasting the pecans before incorporating them into the topping enhances their flavor and adds an irresistible crunch to your dish.

• Experiment with flour alternatives: If you’re looking for gluten-free options, oat flour or almond flour can be great substitutes to create that lovely streusel topping without gluten.

How to Serve Pecan Pie Double Baked Sweet Potatoes

Presenting your pecan pie double baked sweet potatoes beautifully can make the dish even more enjoyable. Here are some ideas on how to serve this delicious creation!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives can add a pop of color and freshness that contrasts nicely with the rich flavors of the dish.
• Drizzle of maple syrup: A light drizzle of pure maple syrup over the top just before serving enhances sweetness and gives a beautiful shine.
• Coconut whipped cream: For a touch of indulgence, dollop some coconut whipped cream on top. It’s light, fluffy, and complements the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts: These small cruciferous veggies caramelize wonderfully when roasted, adding a savory balance to the sweetness of the sweet potatoes.
• Green bean almondine: Simple sautéed green beans topped with toasted almonds provide a crunchy contrast that pairs well with the creamy filling.
• Quinoa salad: A refreshing quinoa salad packed with colorful veggies and citrus dressing adds another layer of texture and nutrition to your meal.
• Cranberry sauce: The tartness of homemade cranberry sauce brings brightness to your plate, making it an excellent complement to both sweet and savory dishes.

With these tips and serving suggestions in mind, you’re all set to wow everyone at your next gathering with this unique twist on a classic favorite! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These pecan pie double baked sweet potatoes are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time, which is especially convenient during busy holiday seasons or weeknight dinners.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the sweet potatoes to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Cool the sweet potatoes completely before freezing.
• Wrap each stuffed sweet potato tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or use freezer-safe containers.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen sweet potatoes overnight in the fridge.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the sweet potatoes on a baking sheet and cover with foil to prevent drying out.
• Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through.

FAQs

If you’re curious about pecan pie double baked sweet potatoes or need more information, check out these frequently asked questions!

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

Absolutely! You can prepare the sweet potatoes and their filling ahead of time. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake them a second time.

What can I substitute for butter in pecan pie double baked sweet potatoes?

You can use coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative if you’re looking for a dairy-free option. Both will work beautifully in this recipe!

How do I ensure my pecan pie double baked sweet potatoes turn out creamy?

Make sure to mash your sweet potatoes well and blend them with enough maple syrup and butter (or its substitute) for that perfect creamy texture!

Can I use different nuts instead of pecans?

Yes! Feel free to swap pecans for walnuts or even almonds if you prefer. Just chop them roughly and follow the same steps for the topping.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these pecan pie double baked sweet potatoes as much as I do! They bring together the warm flavors of fall and are a delightful addition to any meal. Whether served as a side dish or dessert, they are sure to impress your family and friends. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations with loved ones!