Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole is a delightful and comforting dish that combines creamy sweet potatoes with a rich maple syrup glaze, topped with a crunchy pecan streusel. This classic recipe is perfect for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with a sweet and savory side dish.

Ingredients List

For the Sweet Potato Base:

• 4 cups sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed (about 3-4 medium sweet potatoes)
• 1/2 cup maple syrup
• 1/4 cup milk (or heavy cream for a richer flavor)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• Salt, to taste

For the Pecan Topping:

• 1 cup pecans, chopped
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or almond flour for a gluten-free option)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• Pinch of salt

Timing

Preparing Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole takes about 20 minutes for prep and 30 minutes for baking, totaling approximately 50 minutes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Cook the Sweet Potatoes

1. Boil Sweet Potatoes: In a large pot, add the cubed sweet potatoes and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Drain and Mash: Drain the sweet potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash until smooth.

Step 3: Prepare the Sweet Potato Mixture

1. Mix Ingredients: To the mashed sweet potatoes, add the maple syrup, milk, melted butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until well combined and creamy.
2. Transfer to Baking Dish: Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.

Step 4: Prepare the Pecan Topping

1. Combine Topping Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the chopped pecans, brown sugar, flour, melted butter, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Mix until crumbly.
2. Spread on Top: Evenly sprinkle the pecan topping over the sweet potato mixture in the baking dish.

Step 5: Bake

1. Bake Casserole: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.

Step 6: Serve

1. Cool and Enjoy: Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole (per serving, assuming 8 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	280
Protein	3g
Fat	12g
Carbohydrates	43g
Fiber	5g

Tips for Customization

• Add Flavor: Incorporate a splash of bourbon or rum for an extra depth of flavor.
• Nut Alternatives: Use walnuts or almonds instead of pecans for a different nutty taste.
• Spice Variations: Experiment with additional spices like ginger or allspice for a unique twist.

Serving Suggestions

Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole pairs well with:

• Roast turkey or ham for a festive meal.
• Green beans or a mixed green salad for a balanced plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking Sweet Potatoes: Be careful not to overboil the sweet potatoes; they should be tender but not mushy.
2. Not Mashing Smoothly: Ensure the sweet potatoes are well-mashed to create a creamy texture without lumps.
3. Skipping the Cooling Time: Letting the casserole cool slightly before serving helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to serve.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Conclusion

In just about 50 minutes, you can create Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole, a sweet and savory dish that is sure to be a hit at any gathering. With its creamy sweet potato base and crunchy pecan topping, this casserole is a delicious addition to your holiday table or any family meal!

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the sweet potato mixture and pecan topping separately, then assemble and bake when ready to serve.

Can I freeze the casserole?

Yes! You can freeze the unbaked casserole. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed.

What if I don’t have maple syrup?

You can substitute with honey or agave syrup, but the flavor will vary slightly.

Can I add marshmallows on top?

Absolutely! For a traditional touch, you can add mini marshmallows on top during the last few minutes of baking until they are golden brown.