SWEET POTATO CASSEROLE WITH PECAN CRUMBLE: A DECADENT HOLIDAY FAVORITE

When it comes to holiday classics, few dishes can compete with the comforting and sweet flavors of Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Crumble. This dish is the perfect combination of creamy mashed sweet potatoes and a buttery, crispy pecan topping. Whether served as a side dish or dessert, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy: The mashed sweet potatoes are velvety smooth and perfectly spiced.
• Crunchy Topping: The pecan crumble adds a buttery crunch that’s irresistible.
• Simple to Make: With basic pantry ingredients, this recipe comes together quickly.
• Versatile: A side dish that doubles as dessert—it’s the best of both worlds!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: While a staple at Thanksgiving, it’s equally enjoyable year-round.

Ingredients Breakdown

Sweet Potato Filling:

• Sweet Potatoes (2 large): The star of the dish. When mashed, they create a naturally sweet and creamy base.
• Brown Sugar (⅓ cup): Adds a caramel-like sweetness to the potatoes.
• Heavy Cream (¼ cup): Provides richness and creaminess.
• Unsalted Butter (3 tablespoons, melted): Enhances the flavor and smooth texture.
• Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Adds warmth and depth.
• Ground Cinnamon (1 teaspoon): The classic spice for sweet potatoes.
• Salt (¼ teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.

Pecan Crumble Topping:

• Pecans (½ cup, chopped): Nutty and crunchy, they’re the perfect topping for the creamy base.
• All-Purpose Flour (½ cup): Helps create the crumble texture.
• Granulated Sugar (2 tablespoons): Adds sweetness to the topping.
• Cold Unsalted Butter (2 tablespoons, cubed): Creates a buttery, crumbly topping.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

1. Start by cooking the sweet potatoes. You can either:
   • Boil: Peel and dice the sweet potatoes, then boil in salted water for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender.
   • Bake: Roast the sweet potatoes at 400°F (200°C) for 45-60 minutes until soft. Scoop out the flesh once cooked.
2. Mash the cooked sweet potatoes until smooth using a fork, potato masher, or hand mixer.

2. Make the Sweet Potato Mixture

1. In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes with:
   • Brown sugar
   • Heavy cream
   • Melted butter
   • Vanilla extract
   • Ground cinnamon
   • Salt
2. Mix until well combined and smooth. Adjust sweetness or spices to taste, if needed.
3. Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly into a greased baking dish.

3. Prepare the Pecan Crumble Topping

1. In a separate bowl, combine:
   • Flour
   • Granulated sugar
   • Cubed cold butter
2. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to blend the ingredients until a crumbly texture forms.
3. Mix in the chopped pecans evenly.

4. Assemble the Casserole

1. Sprinkle the pecan crumble topping evenly over the sweet potato mixture.
2. Gently press the topping down with your fingers to ensure it adheres to the surface.

5. Bake the Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy.
3. Remove from the oven and allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving.

6. Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve warm, and for an extra indulgence, pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of maple syrup.
2. Garnish with additional chopped pecans for a decorative touch.

Tips for Perfect Sweet Potato Casserole

1. Use Fresh Sweet Potatoes: Avoid canned sweet potatoes for the best flavor and texture.
2. Toast the Pecans: For extra flavor, toast the pecans lightly before mixing them into the topping.
3. Customize the Spices: Add a pinch of nutmeg, ginger, or allspice to the sweet potato mixture for more depth.
4. Don’t Overwork the Topping: Keep the butter cold and the mixture crumbly for a light, crispy texture.
5. Test for Doneness: The topping should be golden brown, and the filling should be warmed through.

Variations to Try

1. Marshmallow Topping: Swap the pecan crumble for mini marshmallows for a more traditional casserole.
2. Oat Crumble: Replace some or all of the flour in the topping with rolled oats for a rustic texture.
3. Vegan-Friendly: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and butter with vegan butter.
4. Add Orange Zest: Mix a teaspoon of orange zest into the sweet potato filling for a citrusy twist.
5. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the topping for a sweet-and-spicy contrast.

Perfect Pairings

This Sweet Potato Casserole pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes:

• Savory Mains: Roast turkey, honey-glazed ham, or grilled chicken.
• Other Sides: Green bean casserole, cornbread stuffing, or cranberry sauce.
• Desserts: Serve alongside a warm apple crisp or classic pumpkin pie for a festive finish.

FAQs

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the sweet potato mixture and topping separately. Assemble the casserole, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.

2. Can I freeze Sweet Potato Casserole?

Yes, it freezes well! Assemble the casserole without baking, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 50-60 minutes, or until heated through.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Cover the casserole with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.

4. What’s the best way to cook sweet potatoes for this recipe?

Baking sweet potatoes concentrates their natural sweetness, while boiling is quicker but may dilute the flavor slightly. Either method works!

5. Can I use canned sweet potatoes?

Yes, but make sure to drain them well, and reduce the sugar slightly since canned sweet potatoes are often pre-sweetened.

6. Can I use other nuts besides pecans?

Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts can be substituted for pecans.

7. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend in the topping to make the casserole gluten-free.

8. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish. You may need to increase the baking time slightly.

9. Why is my topping not crispy?

Make sure the butter is cold when preparing the crumble, and don’t overmix it. If necessary, broil the casserole for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking for extra crispness.

10. Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?

Yes, you can reduce the brown sugar in the sweet potato mixture and granulated sugar in the topping by half without losing too much sweetness.

11. How can I make this dish healthier?

Use unsweetened almond milk instead of heavy cream, reduce the sugar, and add oats or whole-wheat flour to the topping.

12. Can I add fruit to the casserole?

Yes, dried cranberries or chopped apples add a delightful burst of flavor and texture.

13. How can I prevent the filling from being too watery?

Ensure the sweet potatoes are well-drained after boiling or roasting. Avoid overmixing, which can introduce excess moisture.

14. Is this casserole a side dish or dessert?

It can be both! While traditionally served as a side dish, the sweetness and pecan topping also make it a dessert-worthy treat.

15. What can I use instead of heavy cream?

Whole milk, half-and-half, or unsweetened coconut milk are excellent substitutes.

Conclusion

This Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Crumble is the perfect blend of creamy, sweet, and crunchy. Its versatile nature makes it a hit at both holiday dinners and casual family gatherings. Whether you’re savoring it as a side dish or a dessert, this casserole is a comforting addition to any table. Try it today and make it a tradition your family will love year after year!

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