Cranberry apple twice-baked sweet potatoes served on a table.

Indulge in Cranberry Apple Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes This Fall!

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

Cranberry Apple Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes are a delightful and healthy dish perfect for fall. The combination of sweet potatoes, cranberries, and apples creates a warm and comforting meal that is both nutritious and delicious. This recipe is easy to follow and brings a lovely balance of flavors to your table, making it a great choice for family gatherings or a cozy dinner. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to showcase seasonal ingredients.

How to Make Cranberry Apple Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes

Ingredients

  • 2 large sweet potatoes
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
  • 1 juicy apple, diced
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup
  • Salt to taste

Directions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Pierce the sweet potatoes with a fork and bake them on a baking sheet for 45-50 minutes, or until soft.
  3. Let the sweet potatoes cool slightly.
  4. While the sweet potatoes bake, heat a skillet over medium heat.
  5. Melt the butter, then add the diced apple, cranberries, nutmeg, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
  6. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the fruit is tender and the cranberries start to pop.
  7. Stir in the maple syrup and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
  8. Slice the baked sweet potatoes in half lengthwise.
  9. Scoop out most of the flesh, leaving a thin layer to help the potatoes hold their shape.
  10. Mash the scooped sweet potato flesh in a bowl and mix in half of the cranberry apple filling.
  11. Spoon the sweet potato mixture back into the potato skins.
  12. Top with the remaining cranberry apple mixture.
  13. Place the stuffed sweet potatoes back on the baking sheet.
  14. Bake for another 10-12 minutes, until heated through.

How to Serve Cranberry Apple Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes

These twice-baked sweet potatoes make a beautiful presentation when served warm. You can serve them as a side dish or as a main course. They pair well with roasted meats, salads, or even as a standalone vegetarian dish. To make it extra special, garnish with a sprinkle of chopped pecans or a dollop of yogurt.

How to Store Cranberry Apple Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes

If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place them back in the oven at 350°F (180°C) until warmed through. You can also freeze the baked sweet potatoes before the final baking step. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and store them in the freezer for up to two months.

Tips to Make Cranberry Apple Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes

  • Ensure that the sweet potatoes are fully cooked before scooping out the flesh.
  • Feel free to experiment with spices, like adding a pinch of ginger or cloves for extra warmth.
  • If you don’t have fresh cranberries, using dried cranberries works great too; just soak them in warm water for a few minutes before cooking.

Variation

You can add nuts or seeds for extra crunch. Walnuts or almonds can complement the sweetness and add texture. If you want a creamier filling, mix in a bit of cream cheese or sour cream with the mashed sweet potato.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the sweet potatoes and filling ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Just bake when you’re ready to serve.

Q: What if I don’t have maple syrup?
A: Honey or agave syrup can be used as a substitute for maple syrup.

Q: Can I use other fruits?
A: Absolutely! Pears or even orange zest can add a fabulous flavor twist to this recipe.