Are you looking for a mouthwatering side dish that will impress your guests? Maple Pecan Sweet Potatoes are the answer! This delightful recipe blends the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the rich flavor of maple and crunchy pecans. It’s simple to make, packed with nutrition, and perfect for any meal. Join me as we dive into the ingredients and learn how to create this delicious treat that everyone will love!
Ingredients
List of Required Ingredients
To make Maple Pecan Sweet Potatoes, you need:
– 4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Suggested Kitchen Tools
To prepare this dish, gather these tools:
– A large pot for boiling
– A large mixing bowl
– A whisk for mixing
– A baking sheet lined with parchment paper
– A sharp knife and cutting board
Nutritional Information per Serving
Each serving of Maple Pecan Sweet Potatoes has:
– Calories: 250
– Protein: 3g
– Carbohydrates: 40g
– Dietary Fiber: 5g
– Sugars: 12g
– Fat: 10g
– Saturated Fat: 4g
– Sodium: 50mg
These delicious sweet potatoes give you a tasty and healthy side dish. The maple syrup adds sweetness, while the pecans add crunch. Enjoy this dish at your next meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of Sweet Potatoes
Start by peeling and cubing four medium sweet potatoes. Make sure the pieces are even for cooking. Next, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the sweet potatoes and cook for about 10 to 15 minutes. You want them tender but not mushy. Once done, drain the sweet potatoes and set them aside.
Mixing the Maple Pecan Coating
In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter and 1/4 cup of pure maple syrup. Add in 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste. Whisk these ingredients together until they blend well. This mixture will give flavor to the sweet potatoes.
Baking and Caramelization Process
Spread the cooked sweet potatoes in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Pour the maple mixture over the sweet potatoes. Gently fold to coat them evenly. Now, sprinkle 1/2 cup of chopped pecans on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F for 25 to 30 minutes. Stir the sweet potatoes halfway through to ensure even cooking. They should turn caramelized and golden brown. Once baked, let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Optionally, you can garnish with fresh parsley for a lovely touch.
Tips & Tricks
How to Select the Best Sweet Potatoes
When you choose sweet potatoes, look for ones that are firm and smooth. Avoid those with soft spots or blemishes. The best sweet potatoes have a deep orange color. This means they are sweeter and more flavorful. Size matters too; medium sweet potatoes are ideal for this recipe.
Cooking Tips for Perfectly Soft Sweet Potatoes
To cook sweet potatoes well, boil them in salted water. Cut them into cubes and boil for 10-15 minutes. You want them tender but not mushy. Test by poking with a fork. Once cooked, drain them and let them sit for a few minutes. This step helps them absorb flavors later.
Enhancing Flavor with Additional Ingredients
Adding spices can boost the taste of your sweet potatoes. Besides cinnamon and nutmeg, try a pinch of ginger for warmth. You can also mix in a splash of orange juice for brightness. For crunch, consider tossing in some chopped walnuts or almonds along with the pecans. Each ingredient adds a new layer of flavor.

Variations
Vegan Option with Coconut Oil
You can easily make this dish vegan. Instead of unsalted butter, use coconut oil. This swap keeps the sweet and nutty flavor. Simply melt 3 tablespoons of coconut oil and replace the butter in the recipe. The coconut oil adds a lovely richness. Plus, it pairs well with sweet potatoes and maple syrup.
Adding Other Nuts or Seeds
While pecans are classic, you can mix in other nuts. Try walnuts, almonds, or even pumpkin seeds. Each nut adds a unique crunch and flavor. Chop them and sprinkle them over the sweet potatoes just like the pecans. This change gives your dish extra texture and nutrition.
Spice Variations for Different Flavors
You can change the spices to suit your taste. Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat. Or you can add ground ginger for a warm, spicy flavor. If you like a sweeter touch, add more cinnamon. These simple swaps create new flavor profiles and keep your dish exciting.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To store leftover maple pecan sweet potatoes, place them in an airtight container. Make sure they cool first. Keep them in the fridge for up to three days. This helps maintain their flavor and texture. If you have a lot, consider dividing them into smaller containers. This way, you can take out just what you need.
Reheating Instructions
Reheat sweet potatoes in the oven for the best results. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the sweet potatoes on a baking sheet. Cover them with foil to keep them moist. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also use a microwave. Place them in a microwave-safe dish and cover. Heat in short bursts, checking often, until they are hot.
Freezing for Future Meals
You can freeze these sweet potatoes for later. Allow them to cool completely before freezing. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Then, reheat them as described above. Enjoy the same great taste, even after weeks!
FAQs
Can I use canned sweet potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, you can use canned sweet potatoes. However, fresh sweet potatoes taste best. Canned sweet potatoes are often softer. This can change the texture of your dish. If you choose canned, drain and rinse them first. Then, mix them with the maple pecan coating. Bake them as directed, but reduce cooking time. This will help avoid mushy sweet potatoes.
What can I serve with maple pecan sweet potatoes?
Maple pecan sweet potatoes pair well with many dishes. You can serve them with roasted chicken or turkey. They also go great with glazed ham. For a vegetarian option, try them with stuffed peppers. A fresh green salad balances the sweetness too. Serve these sweet potatoes for holidays or family dinners. They add a lovely touch to any meal.
How do I adjust cooking time for larger servings?
To adjust cooking time, consider the size of your dish. If you double the sweet potatoes, use a larger baking sheet. Make sure they are in a single layer. Larger amounts may need a few extra minutes in the oven. Check for doneness by piercing with a fork. Aim for a golden brown color for the best flavor.
This blog post covered how to make delicious maple pecan sweet potatoes. We discussed the key ingredients, kitchen tools, and their nutrition facts. I provided step-by-step instructions, tips for the perfect texture, and ideas for flavor variations.
Remember, selecting the best sweet potatoes can boost your dish. Proper storage keeps leftovers fresh. I hope you feel ready to try this recipe and enjoy your meal!


