Imagine a dish that combines the creamy richness of sweet potatoes, the crisp sweetness of apples, and a warm, aromatic blend of spices that will make your taste buds dance with joy! This Apple Sweet Potato Bake is not just another side dish – it's a culinary experience that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary masterpiece that will have your family and friends begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 60 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced
- 2 apples, peeled and sliced
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by lightly greasing it with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Wash and peel the sweet potatoes and apples. Using a sharp knife or mandoline, slice them into uniform 1/4-inch thick rounds to ensure even cooking.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir these dry ingredients thoroughly to create a fragrant spice mixture.
- Layer the sweet potato and apple slices alternately in the prepared baking dish, creating an overlapping pattern for visual appeal and even cooking.
- Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the layered sweet potatoes and apples, ensuring all slices are lightly coated.
- Sprinkle the prepared spice mixture over the top of the layers, making sure to distribute it as evenly as possible.
- If using pecans, scatter the chopped nuts over the top of the dish for added crunch and flavor.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to help retain moisture and prevent excessive browning.
- Place the covered dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes of baking to allow the top to caramelize and develop a slight golden-brown color.
- Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes before serving, which allows the juices to redistribute and the dish to set.
- Serve warm as a delightful side dish that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes and apples with warm, comforting spices.
Tips
- Slice Uniformly: Use a mandoline or sharp knife to create even 1/4-inch thick slices. This ensures consistent cooking and a beautiful presentation.
- Choose the Right Produce: Select firm, ripe sweet potatoes and crisp apples for the best texture and flavor. Varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work wonderfully for this recipe.
- Don't Skip the Foil: Covering the dish initially helps steam the sweet potatoes to tender perfection before allowing them to caramelize.
- Customize Your Crunch: The pecans are optional, but they add a delightful nutty texture. For nut allergies, try toasted pumpkin seeds as an alternative.
- Serve Immediately: While the dish can rest for 5-10 minutes, serve it warm to enjoy the maximum flavor and optimal texture.
- Make It Your Own: Experiment with additional spices like a pinch of ground ginger or a dash of vanilla extract to personalize the recipe.Pro Tip: This versatile dish works perfectly as a side for holiday meals, weeknight dinners, or even as a slightly sweet breakfast casserole!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 10mg
