If you crave a dish that feels like a comforting hug on a plate, the Melting Sweet Potatoes with Maple Cinnamon Pecan Crumble Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a heavenly blend of tender, melt-in-your-mouth sweet potatoes with a perfectly crunchy, warmly spiced pecan crumble that’s kissed with maple syrup and cinnamon. Every bite delivers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors, making it ideal for gatherings or even elevating a simple weeknight meal. This recipe turns humble sweet potatoes into a show-stopping dish that will quickly become a treasured favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but work together like a dream to create layers of flavor and texture. Each component plays a role in crafting this irresistible dish, from the silky sweetness of the potatoes to the golden, crumbly pecan topping infused with warm spices.
- Sweet potatoes (2 ½ pounds): The heart of the dish, offering natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- Salted butter (7 tablespoons, melted, divided): Adds richness and helps bring everything together with silky smoothness.
- Avocado oil (2 tablespoons): Provides a light, healthy fat for roasting without overpowering flavors.
- Salt (¾ teaspoon): Enhances and balances the natural sweetness of the potatoes.
- Reduced-sodium vegetable broth (1 cup, warmed): Keeps the potatoes moist and infuses subtle savory notes.
- Finely chopped pecans (¾ cup): Creates the crunchy, nutty crumble topping.
- Brown sugar (½ cup + 1 tablespoon): Adds caramelized sweetness both in the crumble and glaze.
- Cinnamon (1 teaspoon, divided): Delivers a warm, aromatic spice that ties everything together.
- Pure maple syrup (2 tablespoons): Brings a deep, natural sweetness and sticky finish to the topping.
How to Make Melting Sweet Potatoes with Maple Cinnamon Pecan Crumble Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by heating your oven to 425°F. This high temperature helps the sweet potatoes roast beautifully, developing caramelized edges that enhance their natural sweetness.
Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Peel your sweet potatoes carefully, stopping when you reach that darker orange flesh—it’s the indicator that you’re not over-peeling important nutrients and flavor. Trim the ends and slice into 1-inch rounds, then toss them into a bowl to get ready for that flavorful coating.
Step 3: Coat and Arrange the Potatoes
Create a luscious blend by whisking together 4 tablespoons of melted butter, avocado oil, and salt. This mixture not only adds flavor but helps each slice roast evenly. Toss the potatoes to coat them well, then lay them flat-side down in a 9×13-inch baking dish. If you’re using glassware, remember the broth you add next must be warm to avoid cracking.
Step 4: Roast and Add Broth
Bake the slices for 15 minutes before flipping them with tongs to ensure even cooking. After another 15 minutes, pour warmed vegetable broth over the potatoes to infuse moisture and a hint of savory depth. Return to the oven for 10 more minutes—this step ensures each slice becomes wonderfully tender.
Step 5: Make the Pecan Crumble
While the potatoes roast, mix together 2 tablespoons of melted butter, pecans, ½ cup brown sugar, and ½ teaspoon cinnamon in a bowl. This crumbly mixture will add that essential crunch and a burst of cinnamon-spiced sweetness atop the potatoes.
Step 6: Whisk Together the Maple Cinnamon Sauce
In a small bowl, combine the remaining melted butter with 1 tablespoon brown sugar, ½ teaspoon cinnamon, and maple syrup. Whisk until smooth—this sauce is what transforms the sweet potatoes from lovely to absolutely irresistible.
Step 7: Add Sauce and Crumble, Then Bake Again
Gently poke holes in each sweet potato slice with a fork to help the flavors soak in. Drizzle the maple cinnamon sauce over each piece, then sprinkle the pecan crumble generously on top. Pop the dish back into the oven for 8 to 10 minutes so the crumble can toast and caramelize perfectly.
How to Serve Melting Sweet Potatoes with Maple Cinnamon Pecan Crumble Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt can add a lovely contrast to the sweetness and crunch. You might also try a dollop of thick Greek yogurt or a drizzle of extra maple syrup to elevate the presentation and flavor further.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with roasted chicken or turkey for a holiday feast, or alongside a crisp green salad for a lighter, balanced meal. The sweet, nutty flavors complement savory mains wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the melting sweet potatoes in individual ramekins with the pecan crumble piled high for a stunning look. You can create a layered casserole with extra sauce drizzled between potato layers for a family-style centerpiece that is sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover Melting Sweet Potatoes with Maple Cinnamon Pecan Crumble Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld beautifully, and the dish reheats wonderfully.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well. Place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve the texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. This will help preserve the crispness of the pecan crumble. You can also microwave individual portions, but the topping may lose some crunch.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds work well for a similar texture and nutty flavor, though pecans remain the classic choice for that signature crumble.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Substitute the butter with a vegan butter alternative and use a vegetable broth, and you’ll still enjoy a delicious and creamy version of the dish.
Can I prepare the pecan crumble ahead of time?
Definitely. The crumble can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container, which makes the final assembly quicker and easier.
What if I don’t have maple syrup?
Honey or agave syrup can work as substitutes, but maple syrup gives the dish its iconic warm, rich sweetness that complements the cinnamon and pecans perfectly.
How do I prevent the sweet potatoes from drying out?
Using the vegetable broth during roasting is key to keeping the potatoes moist and tender. Also, coating the slices well with butter and oil helps lock in moisture while roasting.
Final Thoughts
If you want to make a memorable dish that’s both comforting and elegant, give the Melting Sweet Potatoes with Maple Cinnamon Pecan Crumble Recipe a try. Its inviting flavors and textures turn simple ingredients into a dazzling side or even a star of the table. Trust me, once you experience that luscious warmth and crunch, this recipe will have a permanent spot in your heart and kitchen.
Print
Melting Sweet Potatoes with Maple Cinnamon Pecan Crumble Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Melting Sweet Potatoes is a comforting baked side dish featuring tender sweet potato slices coated in butter and oil, baked with vegetable broth, and topped with a crunchy pecan crumble and a sweet maple cinnamon sauce. This recipe balances sweet and savory flavors with a delightful caramelized finish.
Ingredients
Sweet Potatoes and Coating
- 2 ½ pounds sweet potatoes
- 7 tablespoons salted butter (melted, divided)
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup reduced-sodium vegetable broth (warmed)
Pecan Crumble
- ¾ cup finely chopped pecans
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (from the divided butter)
Maple Cinnamon Sauce
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (from the divided butter)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F to prepare for baking the sweet potatoes.
- Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Peel the sweet potatoes using a vegetable peeler until you see a darker orange hue. Trim off ½ inch from each end, then slice them into 1-inch thick pieces. Place the slices in a large bowl.
- Coat the Potatoes: In a small bowl, whisk together 4 tablespoons of melted butter, avocado oil, and salt. Drizzle this mixture over the sweet potato slices and toss until they are well coated. Arrange the slices flat-side down in a single layer in a 9×13-inch baking dish or pan. If you use a glass dish, make sure to warm the broth in the next step to avoid breakage.
- Bake and Flip: Bake the sweet potatoes for 15 minutes. Then, flip each slice using tongs and bake for an additional 15 minutes. This ensures even cooking and browning.
- Add Broth and Continue Baking: Pour the warmed reduced-sodium vegetable broth evenly over the potatoes and bake for 10 more minutes to infuse them with moisture and flavor.
- Prepare the Pecan Crumble: In a medium bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of melted butter, chopped pecans, ½ cup brown sugar, and ½ teaspoon cinnamon. Mix well until everything is evenly mixed.
- Make the Maple Cinnamon Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 1 tablespoon melted butter, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, ½ teaspoon cinnamon, and 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup until smooth and combined.
- Assemble and Final Bake: Poke a few holes into each sweet potato slice with a fork to allow sauces to soak in. Drizzle the maple cinnamon sauce over the slices, then top each slice with approximately 2 teaspoons of the pecan crumble.
- Caramelize the Topping: Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the pecans are toasted and the crumble has caramelized to a golden brown.
Notes
- Warming the vegetable broth before adding it to the baking dish is crucial if using a glass dish to prevent thermal shock and potential cracking.
- Use tongs to carefully flip the sweet potato slices to avoid breakage.
- For an extra nutty flavor, toast the pecans lightly before mixing them into the crumble if desired.
- Sweet potatoes can vary in size and moisture; adjust baking times slightly if needed to ensure they are tender.
- This dish pairs well with roasted meats or can be served as a vegetarian main when complemented with a grain or salad.
