Elevate your holiday dinners or cozy weeknight meals with these Maple Walnut Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes. Combining the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the rich flavors of maple syrup and crunchy walnuts, this indulgent side dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
4 medium sweet potatoes
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/4 cup maple syrup
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
2 tablespoons brown sugar
Directions:
Bake the Sweet Potatoes:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Wash and dry the sweet potatoes. Prick them several times with a fork.
Place the sweet potatoes on a baking sheet and bake for 45-60 minutes, or until tender.
Prepare the Filling:
Once the sweet potatoes are cool enough to handle, slice them in half lengthwise and scoop out most of the flesh, leaving a thin layer to support the skins.
In a large bowl, mash the sweet potato flesh with the softened butter, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth and well combined.
Stir in the chopped walnuts and pecans, if using.
Stuff and Bake Again:
Spoon the sweet potato mixture back into the potato skins, mounding it slightly.
Sprinkle the tops with brown sugar and additional walnuts.
Return the stuffed sweet potatoes to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden and slightly caramelized.
Serve:
Serve the Maple Walnut Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes warm, either as a side dish or a comforting main course.
Serving Tips:
Warm or Room Temperature: Serve the twice-baked sweet potatoes warm for the best flavor and texture. They can also be enjoyed at room temperature, but a quick reheat can enhance the flavors.
Garnishes: Consider adding a sprinkle of extra cinnamon or a drizzle of additional maple syrup before serving. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can also add a burst of color and flavor.
Pairings: These sweet potatoes pair beautifully with a variety of main dishes, including roasted meats, grilled chicken, or a hearty vegetable stew. They make an excellent side dish for holiday meals or a comforting main course.
Portion Size: For a balanced meal, serve one stuffed sweet potato per person as a side dish. If using them as a main course, consider serving two per person along with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables.
Storage Tips:
Refrigeration: Store leftover twice-baked sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: If you want to store them for a longer period, you can freeze the twice-baked sweet potatoes. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating: Reheat the sweet potatoes in the oven to retain their crispiness. Place them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but the texture may not be as crispy.
Avoid Over-Storing: For the best texture and flavor, try to only prepare as many twice-baked sweet potatoes as you plan to eat within a few days. Repeated reheating can affect their texture and taste.
Related Recipes:
- Easy and Cheesy Ranch Baked Potatoes
- SLICED BAKED POTATOES
- Zucchini Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
FAQs:
Can I use a different type of nut instead of walnuts?
Yes, you can substitute walnuts with other nuts like pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts based on your preference. Pecans add a sweet and buttery flavor, while almonds or hazelnuts can offer a slightly different texture and taste.
Can I make these twice-baked sweet potatoes ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sweet potatoes through the first baking step and the filling a day in advance. Store the cooked sweet potatoes and filling separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, stuff the sweet potatoes with the filling and bake them for the second time as directed.
How do I ensure my sweet potatoes are perfectly tender?
To ensure your sweet potatoes are perfectly tender, make sure to prick them several times with a fork before baking. This allows steam to escape and helps them cook evenly. Bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 45-60 minutes, or until they are easily pierced with a fork.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegetarian. Just ensure you use unsalted butter or a plant-based butter substitute if you need to accommodate a dairy-free diet. The maple syrup and nuts add plenty of flavor without the need for additional animal products.
Conclusion:
These Maple Walnut Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes are a perfect blend of sweet and savory. The combination of creamy sweet potato flesh with the richness of maple syrup and the crunch of walnuts creates a mouthwatering experience. Ideal for special occasions or as a comforting meal, this dish will become a staple in your recipe collection.
📖 Recipe:
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Maple Walnut Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of Maple Walnut Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes. This delectable side dish features tender baked sweet potatoes, mixed with creamy butter, pure maple syrup, and a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg. Topped with crunchy walnuts and a sprinkle of brown sugar, these twice-baked sweet potatoes make an irresistible addition to any holiday meal or a cozy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
4 medium sweet potatoes
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/4 cup maple syrup
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
2 tablespoons brown sugar
Instructions
- Bake the Sweet Potatoes: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and dry the sweet potatoes, then prick them with a fork. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 45-60 minutes, until tender.
- Prepare the Filling: Once cool, slice sweet potatoes in half lengthwise and scoop out most of the flesh, leaving a thin layer. Mash the flesh with butter, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir in walnuts and pecans if using.
- Stuff and Bake Again: Spoon the mixture back into the skins, mound slightly. Sprinkle with brown sugar and additional walnuts. Bake for 15-20 minutes until tops are golden and caramelized.
- Serve: Serve warm as a side dish or main course.
Notes
For a dairy-free option, use a plant-based butter substitute.
You can prepare the sweet potatoes and filling ahead of time; just assemble and bake before serving.
Adjust sweetness by adding more or less maple syrup to taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Second Bake Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 320 kcal
Keywords: Maple Walnut Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes, twice-baked sweet potatoes, sweet potato side dish, holiday sweet potatoes, maple syrup sweet potatoes, walnut-studded sweet potatoes
