Cranberry Apple Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes Recipe

If you are craving a cozy and flavorful side dish that feels like a warm hug in every bite, you must try these Cranberry Apple Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes. This dish brings together the sweetness of tender baked sweet potatoes with the tart brightness of dried cranberries and the crisp, fresh pop of diced apple, all enveloped in a creamy, spiced mash. It’s a perfect blend of textures and tastes, ideal for holiday dinners, special family gatherings, or any time you want to elevate your meal with something unforgettable and heartfelt.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple but essential ingredients that each play an important role in creating the perfect harmony of flavors and textures. From the naturally sweet and velvety sweet potatoes to the zesty crunch of fresh apples and the chewy, tangy cranberries, every element shines through beautifully.

• Sweet potatoes (4 medium): The star of the dish, providing a creamy, naturally sweet base that’s both hearty and comforting.
• Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Used to coat the sweet potatoes before baking, helping to crisp the skin and add a subtle richness.
• Butter (1 tablespoon): Adds a luscious depth and helps soften the apples as they cook.
• Apple, peeled and diced (1, Granny Smith or Honeycrisp): Brings a fresh, slightly tart crunch that balances the sweetness of the potato.
• Dried cranberries (1/3 cup): Infuse each bite with bursts of tangy sweetness that complement the smooth mash perfectly.
• Milk or cream (1/4 cup): For a silky texture in the mashed sweet potato filling.
• Maple syrup or honey (2 tablespoons): Adds a natural, warm sweetness that ties the flavors together beautifully.
• Ground cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon): Provides a cozy, aromatic note that enhances the autumnal feel of the dish.
• Ground nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon): A pinch adds complexity and warmth.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon, or to taste): Balances the sweetness and elevates all the flavors.
• Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Just enough to add a subtle kick without overpowering.
• Chopped walnuts or pecans (1/4 cup): Adds a wonderful crunchy texture and a nutty flavor topping.
• Fresh parsley, chopped (2 tablespoons, optional): A fresh, herbaceous garnish that brightens the finished dish.

How to Make Cranberry Apple Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Sweet Potatoes

Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (400°F). Give the sweet potatoes a good wash and dry, then pierce them a few times with a fork. This lets steam escape while baking. Rub each sweet potato lightly with olive oil to help crisp up their skins beautifully as they bake on a sheet for 45 to 50 minutes until tender inside — this step brings out their natural sweetness and creamy texture.

Step 2: Cook the Apple and Cranberry Mixture

While the sweet potatoes are baking, melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in your diced apple and sauté for about 4 to 5 minutes until softened just enough to maintain a slight bite. Then stir in the dried cranberries, allowing their flavor to infuse the apples. Remove from heat once combined and aromatic.

Step 3: Scoop and Mash the Sweet Potato Flesh

After the sweet potatoes have cooled slightly, slice them lengthwise. Carefully scoop out the tender flesh into a bowl, leaving the skins intact to hold your filling later. Mash the flesh together with milk or cream, maple syrup or honey, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper until you reach a smooth, creamy consistency that’s a perfect canvas for the fruit mixture.

Step 4: Combine and Refill

Gently fold the warm apple and cranberry mixture into the mashed sweet potatoes, creating a deliciously cozy blend. Spoon this filling back into the reserved sweet potato skins and transfer them to a baking sheet. Top each filled potato with chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch.

Step 5: Final Bake to Perfection

Pop the loaded sweet potatoes back into the oven for 12 to 15 minutes. This final bake sets the filling and lightly toasts the nutty topping, making everything meld together with a golden, inviting finish.

How to Serve Cranberry Apple Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley not only brightens up the plate with its vibrant green color but also adds a subtle fresh herb aroma that complements the sweet and spiced filling.

Side Dishes

These sweet potatoes pair beautifully with roasted meats like turkey or ham, making them an ideal side for holiday feasts. For a vegetarian meal, serve alongside a crisp green salad or sautéed Brussels sprouts for a balanced, colorful plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, add a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of cream cheese frosting on top just before serving. You can also swap the nuts with toasted coconut flakes for some tropical flair or sprinkle with a bit of pomegranate seeds for an extra pop of juice and color.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled completely, store any leftover Cranberry Apple Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep nicely for up to 3 days while maintaining their delicious texture and flavors.

Freezing

This dish freezes well if you want to prepare ahead. Freeze the assembled, unbaked sweet potatoes on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to freezer-safe bags or containers. They can be frozen for up to 2 months, perfect for busy days or holiday meal prep.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers or frozen sweet potatoes in the oven at 175°C (350°F) for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until warmed through. This helps retain that lovely crispness on top and creamy filling inside—microwaving works but may result in softer skins.

FAQs

Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?

While you can, sweet potatoes offer a distinct natural sweetness and creamy texture that makes this dish so special. Regular potatoes won’t deliver the same flavor profile and would make it less vibrant.

What type of apples work best in this recipe?

Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are ideal choices because they provide a nice balance of tartness and crispness that contrasts perfectly with the sweet potato base.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! Just swap the butter for a plant-based alternative and use a non-dairy milk or cream. Also, ensure your sweetener like maple syrup doesn’t contain any animal products.

Are dried cranberries the best choice, or can I use fresh?

Dried cranberries are preferred because they retain their tangy flavor and chewy texture when cooked. Fresh cranberries can be too tart and can break down during cooking, changing the dish’s texture.

How do I ensure the sweet potato skins don’t break when scooping out the flesh?

Allow the baked sweet potatoes to cool slightly before handling. Use a spoon gently to scoop out the flesh, leaving about a quarter-inch border of potato around the skin to keep them intact for filling.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something truly heartwarming about whipping up a batch of Cranberry Apple Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes. They’re a symphony of sweet, tart, creamy, and crunchy that will have everyone at your table asking for seconds. Whether you’re chasing cozy vibes on a chilly evening or planning your next festive meal, this dish is sure to become one of your cherished favorites. I can’t wait for you to try it and share the joy it brings!

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