Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Versatility: Serve as a side dish or a main course, depending on the filling.
Rich Flavors: The natural sweetness of sweet potatoes is enhanced with spices and other ingredients.
Texture Contrast: Enjoy the crispy outer skin paired with a soft, aromatic interior.
Visual Appeal: Makes for an attractive addition to any meal, perfect for special occasions or everyday dinners.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 medium sweet potatoes, scrubbed clean
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste
Milk or cream, as needed for consistency
Optional toppings: sour cream, chopped nuts, fresh herbs

Directions

Initial Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pierce the sweet potatoes several times with a fork and place them on a baking sheet. Bake until tender, about 1 hour.
Prepare the Filling: Once the sweet potatoes are cool enough to handle, cut them in half lengthwise and scoop out the flesh, leaving a thin layer to maintain the skins’ structure. In a bowl, mash the sweet potato flesh with butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper until smooth. Add a splash of milk or cream if needed to achieve a creamy consistency.
Stuff and Second Bake: Spoon the filling back into the sweet potato skins, mounding it slightly. Place the stuffed potatoes back on the baking sheet and return to the oven. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, until the tops are lightly browned and the filling is heated through.
Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Top with optional sour cream, chopped nuts, or fresh herbs if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

Variations

Vegan Option: Use plant-based butter and milk alternatives, and omit any animal-based add-ins.
Spice Variations: Experiment with spices like nutmeg, cumin, or smoked paprika for different flavor profiles.
Toppings: Add marshmallows, pecans, or a drizzle of maple syrup for extra sweetness and texture.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze the prepared but unbaked stuffed sweet potatoes on a baking sheet, then wrap individually and store for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding extra cooking time as needed.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through to preserve the texture.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sweet potatoes through the first bake and stuffing, then refrigerate overnight. Bake them the second time just before serving.

How do I know when the sweet potatoes are fully cooked?

The sweet potatoes are fully cooked when they are tender all the way through and can be easily pierced with a fork.

Can I use aluminum foil during baking?

While not necessary, wrapping the sweet potatoes in foil during the first bake can help retain moisture.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

Use plant-based butter and milk alternatives, and omit any animal-based add-ins to make the recipe vegan-friendly.

What other spices can I use for variation?

Experiment with spices like nutmeg, cumin, or smoked paprika to create different flavor profiles.

Can I freeze the prepared sweet potatoes?

Yes, freeze the prepared but unbaked stuffed sweet potatoes on a baking sheet, then wrap individually and store for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding extra cooking time as needed.

How should I reheat leftovers?

Reheat the sweet potatoes in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through to maintain the best texture.

What toppings go well with twice baked sweet potatoes?

Toppings like sour cream, chopped nuts, fresh herbs, marshmallows, pecans, or a drizzle of maple syrup can enhance the flavor and texture.

Can I adjust the sweetness of the filling?

Absolutely, you can adjust the amount of brown sugar or add other sweeteners like maple syrup to suit your taste preferences.

Conclusion

Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes are a versatile and delicious addition to any meal. With their creamy, flavorful filling and crispy skins, they offer a delightful contrast in textures and flavors. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish or a main course, these sweet potatoes are sure to impress. Enjoy experimenting with different variations and toppings to make this recipe your own!