Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood at the kitchen counter, the enticing aroma of roasting sweet potatoes mingled with the sweet scent of maple syrup, instantly transporting me to cherished family gatherings. This recipe for Sweet Potatoes with Maple Pecans is a perfect showstopper for your holiday feasts, combining tender sweet potatoes with a rich maple butter sauce and crunchy, caramelized pecans. Not only is this dish a delightful crowd-pleaser, but it’s also make-ahead friendly, making it a breeze to incorporate into your busy holiday prep. Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving or simply craving something that feels like home, this flavorful side dish promises to warm hearts and satisfy every palate. Curious how to elevate your next meal with this sweet and savory goodness? Let’s dive in! Why Choose Sweet Potatoes with Maple Pecans? Rich, Comforting Flavor: The unique blend of sweet potatoes with a maple butter sauce creates a warm and inviting flavor profile that’s perfect for the holidays. Make-Ahead Ease: You can prepare this dish a day in advance, allowing you to enjoy stress-free meal prep. Simply assemble it before baking! Crowd-Pleaser: This recipe is designed to impress, making it a fantastic side dish for any festive gathering, whether it’s Thanksgiving or a cozy family dinner. Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap out pecans for other nuts like walnuts or almonds, or make it dairy-free by using a plant-based butter alternative. This dish adapts easily to various dietary needs! Heartwarming Tradition: Embrace the nostalgia of family gatherings while serving a dish that not only fills bellies but also warms hearts. It’s truly the perfect companion for stuffed turkey or Garlic Butter Potatoes at your holiday table! Sweet Potatoes with Maple Pecans Ingredients • Get ready to create a flavorful holiday side dish! For the Sweet Potatoes Sweet Potatoes – The star of the dish, providing natural sweetness and nutrition; peel and slice into thick rounds for even cooking. Salted Butter – Adds a rich, nutty flavor when browned; consider using a dairy-free alternative for a vegan version. For the Maple Butter Sauce Maple Extract – Intensifies maple flavor without overwhelming the dish; can be substituted with real maple syrup for extra sweetness. Brown Sugar – Gives that lovely caramel note and sweetness; coconut sugar can serve as a lower-glycemic substitute. Nutmeg and Cinnamon – Ideal warm spices that complement sweet potatoes; adjust quantities based on personal taste preference. Caramel Sauce – Adds depth to the sauce; feel free to use homemade or store-bought. Sea Salt – A wholesome balance to sweet flavors; kosher salt can act as a suitable substitute. For the Topping Pecans – Provide delightful crunch and texture; walnuts or almonds work well as substitutes or you can omit for a nut-free dish. Maple Syrup – Glazes the pecans for a beautiful finish; opt for pure maple syrup to enhance the flavor. Granulated Sugar – Helps create the perfect candy coating for pecans; it can be omitted for a lower-sugar option. With these Sweet Potatoes with Maple Pecans ingredients, you’re just a few steps away from a heartwarming dish that radiates comfort and joy this holiday season! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sweet Potatoes with Maple Pecans Step 1: Preheat Your Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your sweet potatoes will bake evenly and develop that delicious tender texture we all love. While the oven heats up, you can prepare your sweet potatoes to maximize your cooking efficiency. Step 2: Brown the Butter In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt ½ cup of salted butter for about 4 minutes, stirring frequently until it turns golden brown and smells nutty. This brown butter will enhance the richness of your Sweet Potatoes with Maple Pecans. Ensure you don’t let it burn, as that can affect the flavor. Step 3: Make the Maple Butter Sauce Once your butter is browned, stir in 2 teaspoons of maple extract, ¼ cup of water, ½ cup of brown sugar, a pinch of nutmeg, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Cook the mixture for about 2 minutes until well combined. Afterward, pour in the browned butter, reduce the heat, and simmer the sauce gently for about 10 minutes until slightly thickened. Step 4: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes While your sauce simmers, peel and slice 2 to 3 large sweet potatoes into ½-inch thick rounds. Arrange the slices in a greased casserole dish, stacking them neatly for even cooking. This arrangement will help the sweet potatoes absorb the luscious maple butter sauce later on. Step 5: Assemble the Dish Once your sweet potatoes are arranged, pour the maple butter sauce generously over them, ensuring each piece is coated. Cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap the steam, which will help cook the sweet potatoes perfectly. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour. Step 6: Candy the Pecans While the sweet potatoes are baking, grab another saucepan to candy your nuts. Combine ½ cup of maple syrup, ½ cup of brown sugar, and ¼ cup of granulated sugar over medium heat. Bring this mixture to a bubbling boil, then fold in 1 cup of pecans, stirring continuously for about 8 minutes until they’re well coated. Step 7: Cool the Pecans After candying, quickly transfer the pecans onto a piece of parchment paper to cool. This will help them firm up and keep their delightful crunch. Allow them to sit undisturbed, as touching them too soon could lead to a sticky mess. Step 8: Finish the Dish Once your sweet potatoes are fluffy and tender, carefully remove the foil and let them cool slightly. Then, top them with the cooled candied pecans and a light pinch of sea salt for balance. Serve your warm Sweet Potatoes with Maple Pecans alongside your favorite holiday dishes for a heartwarming meal. Sweet Potatoes with Maple Pecans Variations Customize your Sweet Potatoes with Maple Pecans for a unique twist that excites your taste buds and brings a personal touch! Nut-Free: Omit pecans for a delicious, crunchy texture without allergens. You can also sprinkle on toasted breadcrumbs for added crunch! Dairy-Free: Substitute salted butter with any plant-based butter alternative to create a vegan-friendly version that maintains rich flavor. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika to the maple butter sauce for a warm, surprising kick that enhances the sweet flavors. Maple-Orange Fusion: Incorporate the zest of one orange into the maple butter sauce for a refreshing citrus note, brightening the overall dish. Herb Infusion: Add fresh rosemary or thyme leaves in the maple butter mixture for an aromatic depth that complements the sweetness. Add Sweet Fruits: Toss in slices of apple or pear along with the sweet potatoes for a fruitier undertone that’s both refreshing and delightful. Coconut Creations: Drizzle unsweetened coconut cream over the finished dish for a dreamy tropical twist that plays beautifully with the sweet potatoes. Raisin Surprise: Stir in a handful of golden raisins into the sweet potatoes for a delightful burst of sweetness and chewy texture. Feel inspired to mix and match these variations! And if you’re enjoying a feast with stuffed turkey breast or perfecting your holiday table with Garlic Butter Potatoes, these tweaks can elevate your celebration to a whole new level. How to Store and Freeze Sweet Potatoes with Maple Pecans Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Ensure the sweet potatoes are fully cooled before sealing to maintain freshness. Freezer: Freeze the assembled dish (without pecans) for up to 3 months. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, then top with freshly candied pecans before serving. Make-Ahead Tip: Consider preparing Sweet Potatoes with Maple Pecans a day prior and simply baking them just before your holiday gathering for a stress-free serving! Make Ahead Options These Sweet Potatoes with Maple Pecans are a fantastic choice for meal prep to make your holiday hosting stress-free! You can peel and slice the sweet potatoes, then arrange them in your casserole dish up to 24 hours ahead, covering tightly with plastic wrap to prevent browning. Additionally, prepare the maple butter sauce and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce gently before pouring it over the sweet potatoes, cover with foil, and bake as directed. Finish by adding the candied pecans right before serving for that irresistible crunch—this way, your dish remains just as delicious without any compromise! What to Serve with Sweet Potatoes with Maple Pecans As you prepare this festive dish, think about what else will grace your holiday table. Elevating the meal experience enhances the joy of sharing with loved ones. Stuffed Turkey Breast: This lean, savory centerpiece adds a deliciously contrasting flavor that balances the sweetness of sweet potatoes beautifully. Green Bean Casserole: A richness from creamy sauce and crunchy topping pairs perfectly with the soft texture and sweetness, creating a delightful contrast. Garlic Butter Fondant Potatoes: Their buttery richness complements the maple undertones of your sweet potatoes, while their tender yet crispy texture invites a harmony of flavors. Cranberry Sauce: The tartness and acidity of cranberry sauce provide a refreshing bite, cutting through the sweetness of the sweet potatoes and enhancing the holiday flavors. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their earthy taste and crispy texture balance the rich, sweet notes of the dish, presenting a colorful, nutritious addition to your festive table. Mulled Wine: A warm glass of spiced mulled wine envelops the senses, echoing the cozy embrace of your sweet potatoes while adding an aromatic sweetness. Pumpkin Pie: For dessert, a classic pumpkin pie carries the seasonal flavors forward, creating a comforting conclusion to your holiday feast. Apple Crisp: The warm, spiced apple flavors combined with a crumbly topping echo the sweetness of your sweet potatoes, adding delightful textures to the meal. Cheddar Biscuits: The sharpness of cheddar biscuits balance the sweetness from the potatoes, while their fluffy texture makes for a delightful pairing. Maple Pecan Ice Cream: As a dessert, the creamy goodness topped with crunchy pecans mirrors your main dish, making for a sweet and satisfying finish. Expert Tips for Sweet Potatoes with Maple Pecans Even Slicing: Ensure the sweet potatoes are sliced evenly for uniform cooking. This helps achieve that perfect tenderness in every bite. Watch the Butter: Monitor the butter closely while browning to avoid burning. Stir constantly for optimal flavor and richness in your dish. Cool Pecans Completely: Allow candied pecans to cool fully on parchment paper to maintain crispness and prevent them from sticking together. Choose Quality Syrup: Use only pure maple syrup for the best flavor profile in your Sweet Potatoes with Maple Pecans; its authenticity enhances the dish dramatically. Consider Variations: Feel free to replace pecans with walnuts or almonds if you prefer different flavors, or even make it dairy-free using a plant-based alternative. Sweet Potatoes with Maple Pecans Recipe FAQs How do I choose ripe sweet potatoes? When selecting sweet potatoes, look for those that are firm, smooth, and free from dark spots or blemishes. A good sweet potato will feel heavy for its size and have vibrant skin. Avoid those with soft spots or signs of sprouting, as these indicate aging. What is the best way to store leftover sweet potatoes with maple pecans? Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It’s crucial to let the dish cool completely before sealing it to retain freshness. This helps keep the flavors balanced and keeps the sweet potatoes tender. Can I freeze sweet potatoes with maple pecans? Yes, you can! To freeze, assemble the dish without the pecans and cover it tightly with plastic wrap, then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed! What if my candied pecans are too sticky? If your candied pecans turn out sticky, they might not have cooled completely. To fix this, spread them back out on parchment paper in a single layer and let them sit for about 15-20 minutes. You can also toss them with a pinch of granulated sugar to regain some of that crunch! Are there any dietary considerations for this dish? Definitely! For nut allergies, you can either omit the pecans or use seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for crunch. If you’re looking to make it dairy-free, swap the salted butter for a plant-based alternative. Just ensure that all other ingredients, like maple syrup and extracts, are also compliant with your dietary needs. Can I prepare sweet potatoes with maple pecans ahead of time? Very! This dish can be made a day ahead. Simply prepare and assemble everything, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, pop it in the oven—this makes for a stress-free cooking experience on holiday occasions! Sweet Potatoes with Maple Pecans for a Cozy Holiday Treat No ratings yet This Sweet Potatoes with Maple Pecans recipe combines tender sweet potatoes with a rich maple butter sauce and crunchy pecans for a perfect holiday side dish. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 1 hour hrCooling Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins Servings: 8 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Sweet Potatoes2-3 large Sweet Potatoes Peeled and sliced into thick rounds½ cup Salted Butter Use dairy-free alternative for veganFor the Maple Butter Sauce2 teaspoons Maple Extract Can be substituted with real maple syrup¼ cup Brown Sugar Coconut sugar can serve as a lower-glycemic substitute1 pinch Nutmeg Adjust based on personal taste preference1 teaspoon Cinnamon Adjust based on personal taste preference½ cup Caramel Sauce Homemade or store-bought1 teaspoon Sea Salt Kosher salt can act as a suitable substituteFor the Topping1 cup Pecans Substitute with walnuts or almonds, or omit for nut-free½ cup Maple Syrup Opt for pure maple syrup¼ cup Granulated Sugar Can be omitted for a lower-sugar option Equipment Medium saucepanCasserole DishParchment Paper Method PreparationPreheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt ½ cup of salted butter for about 4 minutes, stirring frequently until it turns golden brown.Stir in 2 teaspoons of maple extract, ¼ cup of water, ½ cup of brown sugar, a pinch of nutmeg, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon.Peel and slice 2 to 3 large sweet potatoes into ½-inch thick rounds.Pour the maple butter sauce generously over the sweet potatoes and cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil.Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour.Combine ½ cup of maple syrup, ½ cup of brown sugar, and ¼ cup of granulated sugar over medium heat to candy the pecans.Fold in 1 cup of pecans and stir continuously for about 8 minutes.Transfer the candied pecans onto parchment paper to cool.Once cool, top the sweet potatoes with the candied pecans and a light pinch of sea salt. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 3gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 6gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 18000IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg NotesEnsure even slicing for uniform cooking and watch the butter closely while browning to avoid burning. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
