Delicious Cranberry Apple Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes

Intro and Brief Recap

Have you ever tasted a dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory in every bite? Imagine the delightful combination of cranberry, apple, and sweet potatoes coming together in an unforgettable experience. The flavor profile of Cranberry Apple Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes will transport your taste buds to a cozy autumn evening, filled with warmth and comfort.

This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of seasonal ingredients that are perfect for holiday gatherings or family dinners. The sweetness from the apples and cranberries melds beautifully with the creamy texture of the twice-baked sweet potatoes, creating a comforting side dish or even a light main course. Each mouthful offers a tantalizing mix of flavors and textures that will leave you craving more. Get ready to impress your guests with this crowd-pleaser!

Key Ingredients For Cranberry Apple Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Sweet Potatoes: Select firm, medium-sized sweet potatoes for optimal flavor and texture; about four should suffice for this recipe.
• Cranberries: Fresh or frozen cranberries work well; if using dried cranberries, reduce the sugar in the recipe as they are sweeter.
• Apples: Choose tart varieties like Granny Smith for contrast against the sweetness of the sweet potatoes.
• Brown Sugar: This adds depth to the sweetness and pairs well with the tartness of cranberries and apples.
• Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon enhances the overall flavor profile, offering warmth that complements the dish beautifully.
• Butter: Use unsalted butter to control saltiness; it adds creaminess when blending into the sweet potatoes.

For the Topping:

• Pecans: Chopped pecans add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that elevates this dish to new heights.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Instructions For Cranberry Apple Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

First Step : Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Second Step : Bake Sweet Potatoes

Wash and pierce each sweet potato several times with a fork. Place them on the prepared baking sheet and bake for about 45-50 minutes or until tender.

Third Step : Prepare Filling

While sweet potatoes are baking, chop cranberries and apples into small pieces. In a bowl, combine chopped fruits with brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter.

Fourth Step : Scoop and Mix

Once baked, allow sweet potatoes to cool slightly. Cut them in half lengthwise, scoop out most of the flesh into a mixing bowl leaving some for structure.

Fifth Step : Combine Everything

Mix scooped sweet potato flesh with fruit mixture until well combined. Spoon this filling back into each sweet potato half.

Sixth Step : Add Toppings

Sprinkle chopped pecans over each filled sweet potato half before returning them to the oven for an additional 15 minutes at 350°F (175°C).

Transfer to plates and serve warm as a delightful side or light main for any occasion!

Expert Tips

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh produce as they significantly enhance flavor and texture in your final dish.
• Adjust Sweetness Level: Feel free to modify sugar amounts based on personal preference or dietary needs.
• Add Spice Variations: Consider adding nutmeg or allspice along with cinnamon for an extra layer of warmth.

Preparation Steps

To create delicious Cranberry Apple Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes, follow these straightforward steps. Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, wash and prepare the sweet potatoes. Pierce each potato several times with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for about 45-60 minutes or until tender.

Once the sweet potatoes cool slightly, cut them in half lengthwise. Scoop out the flesh into a mixing bowl, leaving a thin layer inside the skins. Mash the sweet potato flesh with cooked cranberries, diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Spoon this mixture back into the potato skins.

Return the stuffed potatoes to the oven for another 15-20 minutes until heated through and slightly caramelized on top. Serve warm as a delightful side dish or a comforting main course.

Serving Suggestions

Cranberry Apple Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes offer an inviting presentation that enhances any meal. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Add chopped parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Pair with Protein: These sweet potatoes complement grilled chicken or turkey beautifully.
• Add a Drizzle of Maple Syrup: A touch of maple syrup elevates the flavor profile and adds sweetness.

Nutritional Benefits

Cranberry Apple Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Sweet potatoes provide an excellent source of vitamins A and C, promoting healthy skin and immune function. The addition of cranberries adds antioxidants that combat oxidative stress, while apples contribute dietary fiber aiding digestion.

This dish is naturally gluten-free and can be made vegan by substituting butter with plant-based alternatives. It fits well into various dietary plans, making it a suitable option for gatherings or family dinners.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers of Cranberry Apple Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.

For longer storage, consider freezing them before baking the second time. Wrap each potato tightly in foil or place them in freezer-safe containers to retain their quality. When ready to enjoy again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before completing the cooking process.

FAQs

How Can I Make Cranberry Apple Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes Ahead of Time?

You can prepare Cranberry Apple Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes ahead by following all steps except for the final baking phase. After stuffing the sweet potatoes, cover them tightly and refrigerate them for up to two days. When ready to serve, simply bake them directly from the fridge until hot throughout.

Can I Use Different Fruits in This Recipe?

Absolutely! While cranberry and apple pair wonderfully together, feel free to experiment with other fruits like pears or pomegranate seeds for added flavor and texture. Each fruit brings its unique taste that can enhance your Cranberry Apple Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes.

Are There Any Alternative Ingredients I Can Use?

Yes! You can substitute regular brown sugar with coconut sugar or maple syrup if you prefer natural sweeteners. For additional creaminess in your filling without dairy, consider using almond milk or coconut cream as alternatives.

What Are Some Variations of Cranberry Apple Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes?

You can customize your Cranberry Apple Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes by adding nuts like pecans or walnuts for crunch or including spices such as nutmeg or ginger for warmth. Each variation adds a unique twist while maintaining that comforting essence everyone loves!

Print

Cranberry Apple Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes

• Author: christina
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 65 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Side
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

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Description

Cranberry Apple Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes are a delightful blend of sweet and savory, perfect for autumn gatherings. This comforting dish features creamy sweet potatoes infused with tart cranberries and crisp apples, topped with crunchy pecans. Each bite offers a delicious balance of flavors that will impress your family and friends. Ideal as a side or light main course, this recipe is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients, making it a healthy choice for any occasion.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 medium sweet potatoes
• 1 cup fresh cranberries (or ½ cup dried)
• 2 cups diced tart apples (like Granny Smith)
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• ½ cup chopped pecans

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Wash and pierce each sweet potato multiple times with a fork. Bake on the sheet for 45-50 minutes until tender.
3. While the potatoes bake, chop cranberries and apples. In a bowl, mix them with brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter.
4. Once baked, let the sweet potatoes cool slightly, slice them in half lengthwise, and scoop out most of the flesh into a mixing bowl.
5. Combine the scooped sweet potato flesh with the fruit mixture until well blended. Spoon back into the potato skins.
6. Top each filled half with chopped pecans and return to the oven at 350°F (175°C) for another 15 minutes.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 stuffed sweet potato half (150g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 70mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 10mg

Keywords: For added warmth, consider incorporating nutmeg or allspice into the filling. Adjust sweetness by varying brown sugar based on personal preference. Experiment with different fruits like pears or pomegranate seeds for unique flavors.