Maple Walnut Twice Baked Sweet Potato Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that feels both cozy and indulgent, this Maple Walnut Twice Baked Sweet Potato Recipe is here to sweep you off your feet. The tender, naturally sweet flesh of the sweet potatoes is enhanced by a luscious combination of Greek yogurt, brown sugar, and warm pumpkin pie spice, creating a creamy filling that’s balanced with just the right touch of sweetness from pure maple syrup. Topped with a crunchy, buttery walnut and brown sugar crumble, this recipe brings together textures and flavors that make each bite a celebration. It’s incredibly simple to prepare, yet it tastes like something straight out of a gourmet kitchen, perfect for holiday gatherings or elevating an everyday dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient plays a vital role in building the layers of flavor and texture in this dish. From the earthy sweetness of the potatoes to the creamy tang of Greek yogurt, and from the cozy spices to the crunchy walnut topping, these ingredients come together beautifully.

• 4 large sweet potatoes: Choose firm, evenly sized potatoes to ensure uniform baking and presentation.
• ½ cup Greek yogurt: Adds a creamy texture and a slight tang that balances the sweetness perfectly.
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar: Provides rich, molasses-like sweetness that deepens the flavor of the filling.
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup: Pure maple syrup brings a natural, distinct sweetness that elevates the dish.
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice: A warm spice blend that adds comforting autumnal notes.
• ½ cup chopped walnuts: These give a satisfying crunch and a toasty nutty flavor to the topping.
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar: Sweetens the walnut topping and helps create a lightly caramelized crust.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature: Binds the topping ingredients and adds richness without overpowering.

How to Make Maple Walnut Twice Baked Sweet Potato Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Bake the Sweet Potatoes

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit—this high heat ensures tender, fully cooked sweet potatoes with a slightly crisp skin. After washing and poking holes in each potato with a fork to let steam escape, place them on a baking tray and let them roast for about 30 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re tender all the way through and can be easily pierced with a knife.

Step 2: Scoop and Mash the Sweet Potato Flesh

Let the potatoes cool just enough to handle safely, then cut each one in half lengthwise. Carefully scoop out the soft flesh, being gentle to keep the skins intact because they’ll serve as charming little boats for the filling. Transfer the scooped flesh to a large bowl and give it a good mash with a fork, aiming for a creamy but slightly textured base.

Step 3: Combine the Filling Ingredients

This is where the magic happens. To your mashed sweet potato, add the Greek yogurt, brown sugar, maple syrup, and pumpkin pie spice. Mix everything thoroughly until it’s smooth and well blended. This combination brings creaminess, sweetness, and a lovely warming spice that makes the filling irresistibly cozy.

Step 4: Refill the Potato Skins

Evenly spoon the luscious sweet potato mixture back into the hollowed skins, filling them generously. The contrast will be visually striking and the perfect canvas for the crunchy topping.

Step 5: Prepare and Add the Walnut Topping

Mix the chopped walnuts, brown sugar, and softened unsalted butter in a small bowl until the nuts are well coated and the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle this topping evenly over each filled sweet potato half, making sure to cover every bite with that wonderful nutty crunch.

Step 6: Final Bake

Pop the loaded sweet potatoes back into the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes at 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This final bake lets the topping set into a golden, caramelized crust and ensures the filling is heated through and beautifully melded with the walnuts’ flavor.

How to Serve Maple Walnut Twice Baked Sweet Potato Recipe

Garnishes

A drizzle of extra maple syrup over the top right before serving adds a glossy, sweet finish that ties all the flavors together. For a fresh contrast, a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or a few thinly sliced green onions can add a pop of color and a mild savory note.

Side Dishes

This dish works wonderfully alongside simple roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or sautéed greens such as kale for added earthiness. For a heartier meal, pair it with a roasted chicken breast or pan-seared salmon to create a balanced, hearty dinner that satisfies every craving.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the Maple Walnut Twice Baked Sweet Potato Recipe in small individual ramekins for a more elegant touch at dinner parties. Alternatively, arrange the filled halves on a rustic wooden board for a cozy family-style presentation that encourages sharing and conversation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once completely cooled, place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. These twice baked sweet potatoes stay fresh for up to 3 days, making them great for quick lunches or a simple weeknight side.

Freezing

If you want to make these in advance, you can freeze the fully baked sweet potatoes in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture and flavor results.

Reheating

Reheat leftover or thawed Maple Walnut Twice Baked Sweet Potato Recipe in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through and the topping is crisp again. Avoid microwaving to preserve the crunchy topping and avoid sogginess.

FAQs

Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?

Yes, but Greek yogurt is thicker and adds a creamier texture with a tangier flavor, which balances the sweetness beautifully. Regular yogurt is more watery and might make the filling a bit runny.

Can I substitute the walnuts with another nut?

Absolutely. Pecans or almonds work nicely as they offer a similar crunch and flavor. Just be sure to chop them roughly to maintain the intended texture.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this recipe contains no meat or animal-derived ingredients other than dairy, making it perfect for vegetarians. For a vegan option, substitute Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt and use a vegan butter alternative.

How spicy is the pumpkin pie spice in this dish?

It’s very mild and warm, adding cozy notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves without any heat. It perfectly complements the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor gently.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! All the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just be sure the brown sugar and any spices you use do not have any gluten-containing additives or cross-contamination.

Final Thoughts

This Maple Walnut Twice Baked Sweet Potato Recipe is such a delightful combination of comfort and elegance wrapped up in one easy dish. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at your next holiday dinner or simply want to add a little extra joy to your weekly menu, it’s a recipe that’s as welcoming as a warm hug and as satisfying as a sweet treat. Don’t wait—grab your sweet potatoes and start baking your way to a new favorite today!

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