Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole

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Why Make This Recipe

Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole is a delightful dish that brings comfort and warmth to your table. This casserole combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the rich flavors of maple syrup and spices. It’s perfect for family gatherings, holiday dinners, or any time you want to enjoy a cozy, hearty meal. The combination of textures—from the creamy filling to the crispy topping—makes every bite enjoyable.

How to Make Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole

Ingredients:

4 large organic sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
2-3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 cup almond milk (or your favorite milk)
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed into small pieces
1/3 cup organic brown sugar
1/4 cup pure maple syrup
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Pinch of ground allspice
1 cup organic raisins, soaked and drained
2 cups marshmallows
1 1/2 cups raw pecans
1/4 cup pure maple syrup

Directions:

To Roast the Sweet Potatoes:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Place the cubed sweet potatoes on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg.
Toss to coat evenly and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until tender.

To Make the Casserole Filling:

Once baked, let the sweet potatoes cool slightly.
In a large bowl, mash the sweet potatoes until smooth.
Add almond milk, vanilla extract, butter, brown sugar, maple syrup, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/8 teaspoon of nutmeg, and a pinch of allspice. Mix well.
Stir in the soaked raisins until combined.

To Make the Topping:

In a separate bowl, mix the marshmallows and raw pecans.
Pour the sweet potato filling into a greased casserole dish and evenly spread the marshmallow-pecan mixture on top.
Drizzle with 1/4 cup of maple syrup and bake in the oven for an additional 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden.

How to Serve Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole

Serve the casserole warm as a side dish during your meals. It pairs well with savory dishes, especially during festive occasions. A scoop of Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole can brighten up any plate and adds a touch of sweetness to your meal.

How to Store Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole

To store leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. To reheat, just pop it back in the oven until warmed through.

Tips to Make Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole

Make sure to soak the raisins beforehand; this enhances their sweetness and texture.
Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less maple syrup, depending on your taste.
You can prepare the casserole in advance up to the baking point and keep it in the fridge until you are ready to bake it.

Variation

Try adding chopped apples or pears to the filling for a fruitier version. You can also swap the pecans for walnuts if you prefer a different nutty flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can use canned sweet potatoes, but fresh sweet potatoes taste better and have a better texture.

2. Is this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients listed are gluten-free, making it suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

3. Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, you can substitute the butter with vegan butter and use plant-based milk to make it fully vegan.