Indulge in Maple Walnut Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes for Fall Delight

As the air turns crisp and the leaves begin to change, it’s the perfect time to embrace the comforting flavors of fall. And what better way to do that than with a delightful dish of Maple Walnut Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes? This recipe takes the humble sweet potato and transforms it into a decadent, flavor-packed side that’s sure to impress.

Sweet potatoes are a nutritional powerhouse, packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. When baked and combined with creamy yogurt, warm spices, and a crunchy walnut topping, they become an irresistible autumnal treat. The maple syrup adds a touch of natural sweetness, while the walnuts provide a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor. It’s the perfect balance of comforting and indulgent.

Table of Contents

Ingredients Breakdown

To create these Maple Walnut Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes, you’ll need a few key ingredients:

• Sweet Potatoes: The star of the show! Sweet potatoes are a rich source of beta-carotene, vitamin C, and fiber, making them a healthy and versatile ingredient. For this recipe, opt for small to medium-sized sweet potatoes, as they’ll bake more evenly.
• Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream: Adding a creamy element to the sweet potato filling helps to create a luscious texture. Greek yogurt provides a tangy, protein-packed option, while sour cream offers a richer, more indulgent flavor.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice: This warm blend of spices, including cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves, perfectly complements the sweet potatoes and adds a cozy, autumn-inspired flavor.
• Maple Syrup: A drizzle of pure maple syrup enhances the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes and adds a touch of caramelized depth.
• Brown Sugar: For an extra layer of sweetness, brown sugar is added to the filling. You can adjust the amount to suit your personal taste preferences.
• Walnuts: Crunchy, toasted walnuts provide a satisfying texture and nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweet potatoes. You can also use pecans as a delicious alternative.
• Butter: A small amount of butter helps to create the caramelized, toasted topping for the twice-baked sweet potatoes.

Equipment Needed: Maple Walnut Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes

To prepare these Maple Walnut Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes, you’ll need the following equipment:

• Baking Pan: A baking pan or sheet is essential for roasting the sweet potatoes to perfection.

While not strictly necessary, you may also find the following tools helpful:

• Mixing bowls for preparing the filling and topping
• A potato masher or fork for mashing the sweet potato flesh
• A small saucepan for melting the butter and toasting the walnuts

Step-by-Step Instructions: Maple Walnut Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes

Ready to create these Maple Walnut Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes? Let’s get started!

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the sweet potatoes on a baking pan and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Prepare Filling: Once the sweet potatoes have baked, let them cool slightly. Cut them in half lengthwise and scoop the flesh into a bowl, leaving a small border around the skin.
3. Mix Filling: Mash the sweet potato flesh with the Greek yogurt or sour cream, pumpkin pie spice, maple syrup, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt until smooth and creamy.
4. Fill Potatoes: Spoon the sweet potato mixture back into the potato skins.
5. Prepare Topping: In a small pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the chopped walnuts and light brown sugar, and cook for 2–3 minutes until the mixture is slightly toasted and caramelized.
6. Add Topping & Bake: Sprinkle the walnut topping over the filled sweet potatoes. Bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until heated through and slightly golden on top.
7. Serve: Enjoy these Maple Walnut Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes warm as a delightful fall side dish.

Tips for Perfect Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes

To ensure your Maple Walnut Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Choose the Right Sweet Potatoes: Look for small to medium-sized sweet potatoes that are firm and free of blemishes. This will ensure even baking and a better texture for the filling.
• Adjust Sweetness: The amount of brown sugar you add can be adjusted to suit your personal taste preferences. Start with 3 tablespoons and add more if you prefer a sweeter filling.
• Experiment with Toppings: While walnuts are the star in this recipe, you can also try using pecans or even a combination of nuts for a unique flavor profile.
• Enhance Flavor: For an extra burst of autumnal flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dash of vanilla extract to the sweet potato filling.

Serving Suggestions

These Maple Walnut Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes make an excellent side dish for any fall or Thanksgiving gathering. They pair beautifully with roasted meats, such as turkey, chicken, or pork, and can also be served alongside hearty main dishes like meatloaf or pot roast.

If you have any leftovers, they can be reheated and enjoyed as a delicious and nutritious lunch or snack. You can also get creative by using the twice-baked sweet potatoes as a topping for salads, bowls, or even as a unique side for breakfast dishes.

Nutritional Information

A single serving of Maple Walnut Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. Sweet potatoes are a rich source of beta-carotene, vitamin C, and fiber, while the walnuts provide a boost of healthy fats, protein, and antioxidants.

To make this dish even healthier, you can reduce the amount of brown sugar or opt for a sugar-free substitute. Additionally, using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream can increase the protein content and reduce the overall fat and calorie count.

FAQs About Maple Walnut Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes

What is the best type of sweet potato to use for twice-baked sweet potatoes?

The best type of sweet potato to use for twice-baked sweet potatoes is a firm, medium-sized variety with a deep orange flesh. Look for sweet potatoes that are free of blemishes and have a smooth, unblemished skin. Avoiding very large or oversized sweet potatoes will ensure they bake evenly and have the perfect texture for the filling.

How can I make Maple Walnut Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes ahead of time?

To make this dish in advance, you can bake the sweet potatoes and prepare the filling up to 2-3 days ahead of time. Store the baked sweet potato halves and the prepared filling separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply scoop the filling back into the potato skins, top with the walnut mixture, and bake until heated through. This makes for an easy and convenient side dish that can be assembled quickly before your meal.

Can I substitute other nuts for walnuts in this recipe?

Absolutely! While walnuts are the star of this recipe, you can easily substitute other nuts, such as pecans, almonds, or even a mixture of nuts. Pecans, in particular, would make a delicious alternative, providing a similar crunchy texture and nutty flavor. Feel free to experiment and find the nut combination that best suits your taste preferences.

What is the best way to achieve a creamy filling without using too much butter?

The key to a creamy, indulgent filling without an excess of butter is to use Greek yogurt or sour cream. These dairy-based ingredients provide a luxurious texture and richness to the sweet potato filling, while keeping the overall fat content in check. You can also experiment with using a small amount of cream cheese or cottage cheese for an even creamier consistency.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
• Bourbon Peach Upside Down Cake
• Ranch Chicken Crock Pot
• Fresh Peach Fritters

Conclusion

Maple Walnut Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes are the ultimate fall side dish, blending the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the warmth of autumn spices and the satisfying crunch of toasted walnuts. This recipe is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients, making it a wholesome and indulgent addition to any meal.

So, as the leaves begin to change and the air grows crisp, embrace the flavors of the season with this irresistible Maple Walnut Twice Baked Sweet Potato recipe. Your taste buds (and your guests!) will thank you.

Looking for more tasty ideas? Visit Elena’s Fast & Flavorful Recipes on Pinterest for a treasure trove of easy meals, comforting bakes, and fun kitchen inspiration!

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