Let’s talk about the kind of side dish that secretly wants to be dessert (and honestly, we’re not mad about it). These Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes with Pecan Streusel are everything you love about cozy fall flavors, wrapped up in one irresistible little potato boat. Think creamy, fluffy sweet potato mash swirled with warm spices and brown sugar, then topped with a buttery, crunchy pecan streusel that caramelizes to golden perfection in the oven.

This is not your average sweet potato dish. It’s sweet, savory, spiced just right, and totally comforting. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast, looking for something special to elevate dinner, or just in the mood for something indulgent and nostalgic trust me, this one’s a crowd-favorite for a reason.

Why You’ll Love Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes with Pecan Streusel

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Perfect as a show-stopping holiday side or a cozy weeknight treat. It works every time.

Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples like sweet potatoes, butter, brown sugar, and spices.

Quick and Easy: Bake, scoop, mash, top, and bake again. Minimal prep, maximum reward.

Customizable: Play with mix-ins like marshmallows, maple syrup, or even a swirl of cream cheese.

Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

Ingredients in Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes with Pecan Streusel

This dish combines the earthy sweetness of sweet potatoes with a nutty, crunchy topping that’s basically magic:

Sweet Potatoes: The foundation roasted until tender and naturally sweet, ready to be transformed.

Butter: Adds richness to the filling and helps bind the streusel topping.

Brown Sugar: Gives both the filling and topping that deep, caramel-like sweetness.

Cinnamon & Nutmeg: Warm spices that make this dish feel like a cozy hug.

Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and a hint of dessert-like aroma to the filling.

Salt: Just a pinch balances all the sweetness perfectly.

Pecans: Chopped and toasted on top for a buttery crunch and nutty contrast.

Flour: Helps create that crumbly streusel texture that bakes up beautifully golden.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Equipment

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.

Bake the Sweet Potatoes

Place whole sweet potatoes on the baking sheet and bake for 45–60 minutes, or until soft and fork-tender. Let cool slightly before handling.

Scoop and Mash

Slice each sweet potato in half lengthwise. Gently scoop out most of the flesh into a mixing bowl, leaving a thin layer around the edges to help them keep their shape. Mash the insides with butter, brown sugar, spices, vanilla, and salt until smooth and creamy.

Refill the Skins

Spoon the mashed filling back into the sweet potato skins, smoothing the tops.

Make the Streusel Topping

In a small bowl, mix together chopped pecans, flour, brown sugar, and melted butter until crumbly.

Top and Bake Again

Sprinkle the pecan streusel generously over each filled potato. Return to the oven and bake for another 15–20 minutes, until the topping is golden and slightly crisp.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve warm and get ready for the compliments to roll in. These are best enjoyed fresh from the oven, but they reheat beautifully too!

Nutrition Facts:
Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 320
(Note: approximate values)

Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

How to Serve Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes with Pecan Streusel

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
– Serve alongside roasted turkey, glazed ham, or grilled chicken.
– Add a green veggie like sautéed kale or Brussels sprouts for balance.
– Enjoy as a sweet-savory vegetarian main with a fresh salad.
– Try with a dollop of whipped cream or Greek yogurt for a brunch twist.
– Top with a drizzle of maple syrup if you’re leaning dessert-y.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
– Choose similarly sized sweet potatoes so they cook evenly.
– You can prep the filling and topping a day ahead and assemble before baking.
– Swap pecans with walnuts or almonds if preferred.
– Add mini marshmallows under the streusel for an extra gooey topping.
– Don’t over-scoop the skins you want them sturdy enough to hold the filling.

FAQ’s

1. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare up to the second bake and store in the fridge. Bake before serving.

2. Can I freeze these?
You can! Wrap tightly in foil and freeze after assembling, then bake straight from frozen.

3. What if I don’t have pecans?
Use walnuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.

4. Can I add marshmallows to this?
Absolutely! Add them on top with or instead of the streusel for a gooey twist.

5. Is this dish gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use almond flour or a gluten-free blend in the streusel.

6. Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
Fresh is best for texture and flavor, but canned can work in a pinch—just drain well.

7. How do I reheat leftovers?
Warm in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes or microwave until heated through.

8. What kind of sweet potatoes should I use?
Look for orange-fleshed varieties like Garnet or Jewel—they’re sweet and creamy.

9. Can I make these sweeter or less sweet?
Of course! Adjust the brown sugar in both the filling and topping to your taste.

10. Can I make this vegan?
Yes! Use plant-based butter and skip or sub the streusel with a vegan crumble topping.

Conclusion

Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes with Pecan Streusel are more than just a side they’re a cozy, flavor-packed celebration of all things sweet, spiced, and satisfying. Whether you’re making them for a holiday table or treating yourself on a weeknight, this recipe delivers every time. Once you try them, they’re guaranteed to become a regular in your comfort food rotation. So go aheadb ake a batch and get ready for happy plates and even happier hearts!

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