Save This Maple Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole brings together the naturally creamy texture of sweet potatoes, the gentle sweetness of maple syrup, and a crunchy, buttery pecan topping. It is my most requested holiday dish rich enough for special occasions yet simple enough to make any cozy Sunday dinner special.
This casserole originally showed up on my Thanksgiving table when I wanted something both homey and special. After the first bite everyone begged me to bring it every year now it never misses a family gathering.
Ingredients
- Sweet potatoes: give the casserole its creamy base and gorgeous orange color Pick firm ones without bruising for best flavor
- Unsalted butter: adds richness and helps with silkiness Choose high-quality butter for better taste
- Pure maple syrup: brings depth and caramel-like sweetness Always use 100 percent pure maple syrup not pancake syrup
- Whole milk or non dairy milk: makes it fluffy and smooth Opt for whole milk or full fat plant milk for creaminess
- Vanilla extract: enhances natural sweetness Use pure vanilla for a fragrant finish
- Ground cinnamon: gives warmth Check freshness by smelling the jar old cinnamon can taste flat
- Salt: balances and wakes up the sweet flavors A flaky salt looks nice sprinkled before baking
- Eggs: bind all the elements and create a light texture Go for large eggs and be sure they are very fresh
- Light brown sugar: gives the topping a butterscotch note Choose fresh brown sugar and squeeze to feel moistness
- All purpose flour or gluten free flour: holds the topping together The topping will have a sandy texture if flour is fresh
- Pecans: offer nutty crunch Look for plump halves and avoid any with a dusty feel
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish:
- Start by heating your oven to 180C or 350F Grease a 23 by 33 cm baking dish so the casserole does not stick later
- Boil the Sweet Potatoes:
- Peel and chop sweet potatoes into even chunks Place them in a large pot cover with water and bring to a boil Simmer about 15 minutes until a fork slips in easily
- Mash and Flavor:
- Drain the cooked sweet potatoes and let cool for a few minutes Use a potato masher to smooth them out completely Stir in melted butter maple syrup milk vanilla cinnamon salt and eggs Mix until no lumps remain and everything looks creamy
- Spread in Dish:
- Scoop the sweet potato mixture into your greased dish Level it with a spatula so it bakes evenly
- Prepare the Pecan Topping:
- In a separate bowl combine brown sugar flour melted butter and chopped pecans Mix until everything is moistened and a crumbly texture forms
- Top the Casserole:
- Sprinkle the pecan mixture evenly over the mashed sweet potatoes Make sure the topping covers every corner
- Bake:
- Put the dish in your hot oven and bake for 35 minutes The topping should be golden brown and the base softly set
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the casserole to cool ten minutes so it slices neatly It will be set but still warm and creamy inside
Save Pecans are my favorite part Here in our house I always catch little hands picking the topping right from the corner I remember my grandmother letting me sneak a pecan before the casserole hit the table now I do the same for my kids as we wait for dinner to be served
Storage Tips
This casserole stores beautifully in the fridge in a covered container for up to three days For best results let it cool to room temperature before sealing Reheat in the oven at low temperature to preserve the topping’s crunchiness If you want that freshly baked crackle add a few extra pecans on top during reheating
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap out dairy butter with plant based versions and use your favorite non dairy milk For the flour go with your most trusted gluten free blend and nobody will miss the gluten Try walnuts or hazelnuts if pecans are not handy Maple syrup can be replaced with honey for a different but lovely sweetness
Serving Suggestions
Serve this next to holiday roasts or glazed ham It is an especially nice match to turkey for Thanksgiving For a lighter feel I love pairing leftovers with a green salad the next day It even sneaks beautifully into a brunch spread with crusty bread and poached eggs
Cultural and Historical Context
Sweet potato casseroles are a classic across the American South Families have added all sorts of toppings from marshmallows to gingersnaps but pecans and maple have roots in traditional Southern and New England cooking Handmade casseroles like this one have been a winter comfort food for several generations
Save The casserole is sure to be the highlight of any festive meal and disappears fast! Enjoy every bite of its rich, creamy sweetness and crunchy topping.
Kitchen Tips & Answers
- → Can I use non-dairy milk and butter?
Yes, plant-based milk and butter work well for a dairy-free version while keeping the flavor rich and creamy.
- → How can I make this gluten-free?
Simply use your favorite gluten-free flour in the pecan topping for a gluten-free variation.
- → Can I prepare the casserole ahead?
This dish can be assembled in advance and baked before serving. Refrigerate covered until ready to bake.
- → What can I serve with this casserole?
Pair it with roast turkey, glazed ham, or your favorite main for a satisfying meal.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers stay fresh in the refrigerator, covered, for up to three days. Reheat gently before serving.
- → Can I add extra spices?
Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg for added warmth or experiment with your favorite spices.