This indulgent casserole combines creamy, spiced sweet potatoes with a buttery, nutty crumble topping, making it a show-stopping side dish or dessert. Perfect for holiday feasts or cozy gatherings!
🕒 Time Commitment
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours (including sweet potato roasting time)
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
🍽️ Servings
Serves 6-8 generously.
Ingredients
Sweet Potato Base
- 3 large sweet potatoes: Peeled and roasted for creamy texture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds the perfect amount of sweetness.
- 2 large eggs: Acts as a binder, providing structure to the casserole.
- 1/2 cup whole milk: For a creamy and smooth consistency.
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth of flavor.
- 1/2 cup butter (softened): Adds richness to the base.
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract: Elevates the overall flavor with a hint of aromatic sweetness.
Crumble Topping
- 1 1/2 cups packed brown sugar: For a sweet, caramelized topping.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Helps bind the crumble ingredients.
- 1 cup pecan pieces: Use 2 cups for extra crunch or leave them whole for added texture.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Enhances the spiced flavors.
- 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice: A seasonal favorite for warm, cozy notes.
- 1/2 cup butter (softened): Ensures the topping bakes into a crumbly, golden crust.
Optional Garnish
- Mini marshmallows: For an additional layer of sweetness and nostalgia.
Directions
1️⃣ Roast the Sweet Potatoes
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place peeled sweet potatoes on a baking sheet, cover tightly with foil, and bake for 1 1/2 hours or until they’re soft and fork-tender.
- Allow them to cool slightly before proceeding to the next step.
2️⃣ Prepare the Sweet Potato Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, mash the roasted sweet potatoes until smooth.
- Add sugar, eggs, milk, cinnamon, butter, and vanilla extract.
- Whisk or beat the mixture until well combined and silky. Adjust sweetness or spice to taste.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, smoothing it into an even layer.
3️⃣ Make the Crumble Topping
- In a medium bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, pecans, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice.
- Add the softened butter and mix using a fork or your hands until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Taste the crumble mixture to ensure the spice levels meet your preference.
4️⃣ Assemble the Casserole
- Evenly distribute the crumble topping over the sweet potato base, ensuring complete coverage for a consistent crunch in every bite.
- Optional: For a little extra sweetness, sprinkle some additional brown sugar on top of the crumble.
5️⃣ Bake the Casserole
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling slightly around the edges.
- Optional Marshmallows: If using, sprinkle mini marshmallows on top during the last 10 minutes of baking to allow them to melt and toast lightly.
6️⃣ Cool and Serve
- Let the casserole rest for 15-20 minutes after baking to allow it to set properly.
- Serve warm as a side dish or dessert. Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days, or freeze for future enjoyment.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Sweet Potatoes: Roasting fresh sweet potatoes intensifies their natural sweetness, creating a better flavor than canned ones.
- Customize the Texture: For a smoother consistency, puree the sweet potato mixture in a blender or food processor.
- Amp Up the Crunch: Double the pecans in the crumble topping if you prefer a nut-heavy texture.
- Add Some Zing: Mix 1 tablespoon of orange zest into the sweet potato base for a citrusy twist.
- Make It Ahead: This casserole can be assembled a day in advance. Cover tightly and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Nutritional Info (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~360 kcal
- Carbs: 50g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 15g
This Southern Sweet Potato Casserole is a crowd-pleaser that marries creamy, spiced sweetness with a delightfully crunchy topping. Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any time you crave comfort food at its finest! 🥧✨