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Maple Sweet Potato Casserole

Maple Sweet Potato Casserole

Maple Sweet Potato Casserole is a rich, creamy, and comforting side dish combining smooth mashed sweet potatoes with natural maple syrup sweetness, warm spices, and a slightly crunchy nut topping. Perfect for holiday feasts or cozy family dinners, this versatile casserole is easy to prepare, make-ahead friendly, and loved by all ages.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 4 cups sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped
  • 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup milk or cream
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Topping

  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour or gluten-free flour
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Variations (Optional)

  • For vegan: Substitute butter with coconut oil, eggs with flax eggs, and use plant-based milk such as almond or oat milk.
  • Nut-free topping: Use crushed graham crackers or oat streusel instead of nuts.
  • Add a pinch of cayenne or ground ginger for a spicy kick.
  • Mix in 1/4 cup cream cheese for extra creaminess.
  • Use gluten-free flour or almond meal for gluten-free topping.

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Peel and chop the sweet potatoes into even chunks. Boil them in salted water for 15 to 20 minutes until fork-tender. Drain thoroughly and let them cool slightly before mashing until smooth and lump-free.
  2. Mix the Main Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes with maple syrup, melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract. Whisk in the eggs, then pour in the milk or cream. Mix everything thoroughly until silky smooth.
  3. Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, combine the chopped pecans or walnuts with brown sugar, flour (or gluten-free alternative), and melted butter. Mix until the ingredients form a crumbly, cohesive topping.
  4. Assemble the Casserole: Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the nutty topping evenly over the surface to ensure a crunchy finish.
  5. Bake the Casserole: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for 30 to 40 minutes until the top is golden brown and crisp and the inside remains moist and creamy. Let cool for a few minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Notes

  • Choose orange-fleshed sweet potatoes for sweeter, creamier results.
  • Mix ingredients just until combined to avoid a dense casserole.
  • Adjust maple syrup to your preferred sweetness level as it can vary.
  • Use room temperature ingredients for better blending and even baking.
  • Test doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean when fully cooked.
  • Leftovers keep refrigerated for 3-4 days or can be frozen for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat covered at 325°F (160°C) for 20-25 minutes for best results.

Nutrition

Keywords: maple, sweet potato, casserole, fall, holiday side, comforting, creamy, nut topping, gluten free, vegan option