Nothing brings warmth and comfort to the table quite like a homemade sweet potato casserole dessert. This classic dish combines the rich, natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with a buttery, crunchy pecan topping. It’s a staple at Thanksgiving dinners but is perfect for any time of the year.
The smooth, creamy texture of the sweet potatoes pairs beautifully with the caramelized pecans, creating an irresistible combination of flavors and textures. Whether you’re serving this as a side dish or a dessert, this recipe is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
Another great thing about this casserole is that it’s easy to prepare with simple, wholesome ingredients. You don’t need to be a professional baker to achieve delicious results!
In this recipe, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of making this delightful dish from scratch. From selecting the best sweet potatoes to achieving the perfect golden crust, we’ve got you covered.
Let’s dive in and create a decadent, heartwarming sweet potato casserole that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
For the Sweet Potato Base:
- 4 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 4 large sweet potatoes)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Pecan Topping:
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¾ cup chopped pecans
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare sweet potatoes: Peel, chop, and boil them until soft. Drain and mash.
- Make the sweet potato mixture: In a large bowl, mix mashed sweet potatoes, melted butter, sugar, milk, eggs, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
- Transfer to baking dish: Spread the mixture evenly in the greased dish.
- Make the topping: In a separate bowl, mix brown sugar, flour, melted butter, and pecans.
- Sprinkle topping evenly over the sweet potato mixture.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and bubbling.
- Cool slightly before serving.
How to Prepare
- Choosing Sweet Potatoes: Opt for fresh, firm sweet potatoes for the best flavor and texture.
- Boiling & Mashing: Peel and cut them into chunks, then boil for about 15 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and mash until smooth.
- Mixing the Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better blending.
- Baking Tips: Check for a slightly firm but creamy consistency with a golden-brown crust.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings
This recipe serves 8-10 people.
FAQs
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the sweet potato mixture and topping separately. Assemble before baking and refrigerate overnight. Bake when ready.
2. Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
Absolutely! Just ensure they are well-drained and mashed smoothly before mixing.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
4. Can I freeze sweet potato casserole?
Yes! Assemble and freeze before baking. When ready, bake straight from frozen at 350°F, adding 10 extra minutes.
5. What can I use instead of pecans?
You can substitute walnuts or oats for a nut-free option. Coconut flakes also work well.
This sweet potato casserole dessert is a timeless recipe that delivers the perfect blend of sweetness and crunch. Whether you serve it as a comforting side dish or a delightful dessert, its warm flavors and rich texture will impress everyone at the table.
The best part? It’s easy to make with simple ingredients and can be prepared ahead of time, making it an ideal choice for busy holiday gatherings or casual family dinners.
If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dish that never fails to satisfy, this sweet potato casserole is the answer. Try it today, and enjoy a bite of cozy indulgence!