There’s nothing quite like the cozy smell of sweet potatoes baking in the oven. I remember the first time I made melting sweet potatoes; my friends were over, and we couldn’t wait to dig into the warm, creamy slices. This dish quickly became a favorite for gatherings and weeknight dinners alike.
Why Make This Recipe
Melting sweet potatoes are simple but oh-so-delicious. They combine the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with a creamy, buttery texture and a crunchy pecan topping. This recipe is great for beginners and perfect for any occasion. Whether you need a side dish for a holiday feast or a comforting meal for your family, these melting sweet potatoes will impress everyone!
How to Make Melting Sweet Potatoes
This recipe comes together easily, making it a joy to prepare. Start by peeling and slicing sweet potatoes. Then, coat them with butter and oil, layer in a baking dish, and let the oven do its magic! The result? Soft, melting sweet potatoes with a crunchy pecan topping and a drizzle of maple syrup.
Ingredients:
- 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)
- ¾ cup finely chopped pecans
- ½ cup + 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (divided)
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F.
- Peel the sweet potatoes with a vegetable peeler until you see a darker orange hue. Trim off ½ inch from each end and cut them into 1-inch slices. Put the slices in a large bowl.
- In a small bowl, whisk together 4 tablespoons of melted butter, avocado oil, and salt. Drizzle this mixture over the potatoes and toss to coat well.
- Arrange the sweet potato slices in a single layer, flat-side down, in a 9×13-inch baking dish or pan.
- Note: If using a glass baking dish, ensure the broth is warmed to prevent breakage.
- Bake for 15 minutes, then flip the slices using tongs. Bake for another 15 minutes.
- Pour the warmed vegetable broth over the potatoes and return to the oven for 10 more minutes.
- For the Pecan Crumble: In a medium bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons melted butter, pecans, ½ cup brown sugar, and ½ teaspoon cinnamon until well combined.
- For the Maple Cinnamon Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 1 tablespoon melted butter, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, ½ teaspoon cinnamon, and maple syrup until smooth.
- Poke a few holes into each potato slice with a fork. Drizzle with the maple cinnamon sauce and sprinkle with about 2 teaspoons of the pecan crumble.
- Return to the oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the pecans are toasted and the crumble has caramelized.
How to Serve Melting Sweet Potatoes
Serve these melting sweet potatoes hot right out of the oven. They are great on their own but can also be paired with meats like roasted chicken or pork. Feel free to top them with a dollop of yogurt for a creamy contrast or serve alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal!
How to Store Melting Sweet Potatoes
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to about 3 days. They can be gently reheated in the oven or microwave.
Tips to Make Melting Sweet Potatoes
- Choose the Right Sweet Potatoes: Look for firm, smooth sweet potatoes without any soft spots.
- Don’t Skip the Broth: It adds moisture and flavor as the sweet potatoes bake.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer sweeter potatoes, feel free to add more brown sugar or maple syrup.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh butter and pecans make a noticeable difference in taste.
Variation
- Nuts: You can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds.
- Spices: Try adding nutmeg or ginger for an extra kick.
- Vegan Version: Replace the butter with a plant-based alternative and use vegetable broth that is not salted.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of potato?
- Yes, you can try using regular potatoes, but they will have a different flavor and texture.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
- You can prepare the sweet potatoes and the toppings ahead, then bake them when you are ready to serve.
What if I don’t have pecans?
- No problem! Use any other nuts you have on hand, or skip them altogether for a simpler dish.
Conclusion
I hope you give melting sweet potatoes a try! They are easy to make and bursting with flavor. What would you serve them with? Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Melting Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 425°F.
- Peel the sweet potatoes with a vegetable peeler and trim off ½ inch from each end, then cut them into 1-inch slices.
- Place the slices in a large bowl.
- In a small bowl, whisk together 4 tablespoons of melted butter, avocado oil, and salt. Drizzle this over the sweet potato slices and toss to coat well.
- Arrange the sweet potato slices in a single layer, flat-side down, in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Bake for 15 minutes, then flip the slices using tongs and bake for another 15 minutes.
- Pour the warmed vegetable broth over the potatoes and return to the oven for 10 more minutes.
- In a medium bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons melted butter, pecans, ½ cup brown sugar, and ½ teaspoon cinnamon until well combined.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 1 tablespoon melted butter, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, ½ teaspoon cinnamon, and maple syrup until smooth.
- Poke a few holes into each sweet potato slice with a fork, drizzle with the maple cinnamon sauce, and sprinkle with about 2 teaspoons of the pecan crumble.
- Return to the oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the pecans are toasted and the crumble has caramelized.
