Melting Sweet Potatoes with Maple Cinnamon Pecan Topping Recipe

“`html

If you’re searching for a dish that brings comfort, warmth, and a touch of elegance to your table, this Melting Sweet Potatoes with Maple Cinnamon Pecan Topping Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine tender sweet potatoes baked to perfection, infused with warm cinnamon and buttery goodness, then crowned with a crunchy, sweet pecan topping drizzled in pure maple syrup. It’s a harmony of flavors and textures that feels like a cozy hug on a plate, perfect for holiday dinners or whenever you want to treat yourself and your loved ones to something special.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role, creating a balance between sweet, savory, and crunchy elements that make this dish unforgettable. From the creamy sweet potatoes to the crunchy pecans and the fragrant cinnamon and maple syrup, every component is essential in crafting that signature melt-in-your-mouth experience.

• Sweet potatoes (2 ½ pounds): Choose firm, bright orange sweet potatoes for the best texture and flavor.
• Salted butter (7 tablespoons, melted): Provides richness and helps caramelize both the potatoes and topping beautifully.
• Avocado oil (2 tablespoons): Adds a subtle, neutral taste with a high smoke point ideal for roasting.
• Salt (¾ teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors without overwhelming the dish.
• Reduced-sodium vegetable broth (1 cup, warmed): Keeps the potatoes moist and infuses gentle flavor during baking.
• Finely chopped pecans (¾ cup): Give a delightful crunch and nutty depth for the topping.
• Brown sugar (½ cup + 1 tablespoon): Adds natural sweetness and helps create a caramelized crust.
• Cinnamon (1 teaspoon, divided): Brings warm spice notes that perfectly complement the sweet potatoes and maple syrup.
• Pure maple syrup (2 tablespoons): Offers a luscious, sticky sweetness that ties all the flavors together.

How to Make Melting Sweet Potatoes with Maple Cinnamon Pecan Topping Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by setting your oven to 425°F. This high temperature ensures your sweet potatoes develop a thin, caramelized crust while staying soft and tender inside.

Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Peel your sweet potatoes carefully until you see a deeper orange. Trim the ends and slice them into 1-inch thick rounds. This uniform thickness ensures even cooking and perfect melting every bite.

Step 3: Coat the Potatoes

In a small bowl, blend 4 tablespoons of melted butter with avocado oil and salt. Gently toss the sweet potato slices in this buttery mixture, making sure each slice is well coated. Lay them flat-side down in a 9×13-inch baking dish for even roasting.

Step 4: Bake and Flip

Bake the sweet potatoes for 15 minutes, then carefully flip each slice with tongs. Bake for another 15 minutes to develop an even golden finish on both sides.

Step 5: Add Broth and Continue Baking

Pour warmed vegetable broth evenly over the potatoes to keep them moist and enhance their natural flavor. Return the dish to the oven for 10 more minutes, allowing the broth to absorb fully and the slices to become meltingly soft.

Step 6: Prepare the Pecan Crumble

Mix together 2 tablespoons melted butter, chopped pecans, ½ cup brown sugar, and ½ teaspoon cinnamon. This crunchy topping is what sets the Melting Sweet Potatoes with Maple Cinnamon Pecan Topping Recipe apart, adding a delightful texture and sweet spice.

Step 7: Whip up the Maple Cinnamon Sauce

In a smaller bowl, whisk together the remaining tablespoon of melted butter, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, ½ teaspoon cinnamon, and pure maple syrup. This velvety sauce will drizzle over the potatoes for a heavenly finish.

Step 8: Top and Final Bake

Poke each potato slice gently with a fork to help the sauce seep in. Drizzle the maple cinnamon sauce evenly, then sprinkle about 2 teaspoons of pecan crumble atop each slice. Bake for an additional 8-10 minutes until the pecans are toasted and the topping has caramelized beautifully.

How to Serve Melting Sweet Potatoes with Maple Cinnamon Pecan Topping Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate this dish even further, consider fresh herbs like chopped rosemary or thyme sprinkled lightly over the top. A handful of pomegranate seeds can add a pop of color and a refreshing tartness that cuts through the richness.

Side Dishes

This sweet potato masterpiece pairs wonderfully with savory mains like roast chicken, maple-glazed ham, or pan-seared pork chops. Its sweet and nutty profile also complements leafy green salads or roasted Brussels sprouts for a balanced meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, serve the sweet potatoes layered in a clear glass casserole dish to showcase the golden slices and crunchy topping. Alternatively, individual ramekins can turn this comfort food into an elegant side perfect for dinner parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the dish taste even better the next day!

Freezing

While freezing is possible, it’s best to freeze the sweet potatoes before adding the pecan topping to prevent sogginess. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F to retain that crispy pecan topping and soften the potatoes just right. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep the texture perfect.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?

Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds work wonderfully as substitutes in this recipe and provide a similar crunch and flavor profile.

Is there a dairy-free option for the butter?

Yes! You can use coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine to keep this dish vegan-friendly without sacrificing richness.

Can this dish be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sweet potatoes and pecan topping separately and assemble just before the final bake. This way, you save time on the day you want to serve it.

What’s the best way to slice the sweet potatoes?

Using a sharp knife or mandoline slicer to achieve uniform 1-inch slices ensures even cooking and the perfect melting texture.

How sweet is this dish? Can I reduce the sugar?

This recipe balances natural sweetness with savory and nutty elements. You can reduce the brown sugar slightly if you prefer a less sweet side, but the maple syrup is key to its signature flavor.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about the Melting Sweet Potatoes with Maple Cinnamon Pecan Topping Recipe that makes it a standout on any table. It’s comfort food elevated by a perfect blend of flavors and textures, guaranteed to delight your family and friends. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your new favorite side dish!

“`

Print