Get ready to transform your holiday table with a mind-blowing sweet potato casserole that's not just delicious, but completely dairy-free! Imagine a creamy, luxurious dish that's so indulgent, you won't believe it's made without traditional dairy ingredients. This American-style casserole is a game-changer for anyone looking to enjoy a classic comfort food while catering to dietary restrictions or simply seeking a healthier alternative.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 5 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 4 large sweet potatoes
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Thoroughly wash the sweet potatoes and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
- Pierce each sweet potato several times with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking. Place the sweet potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake the sweet potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until they are completely soft when pierced with a fork. The skin should be slightly wrinkled and easily punctured.
- Remove the sweet potatoes from the oven and let them cool for 10-15 minutes until they are comfortable to handle. Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully cut the sweet potatoes in half lengthwise and scoop the soft interior into a large mixing bowl, discarding the skins.
- Mash the sweet potato flesh with a potato masher or fork until smooth and free of large lumps.
- Add coconut milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt to the mashed sweet potatoes. Mix thoroughly until well combined and creamy.
- Transfer the sweet potato mixture to a 9x9 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly across the top of the sweet potato mixture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and the edges are slightly crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle and the dish to set.
Tips
- Choose the Right Sweet Potatoes: Look for firm, unblemished sweet potatoes with smooth, intact skin for the best flavor and texture.
- Don't Rush the Baking: Allow sweet potatoes to bake fully until they're completely soft. This ensures maximum natural sweetness and easy mashing.
- Mashing Technique: Use a potato masher or fork for a rustic texture, or an electric mixer for ultra-smooth consistency.
- Coconut Milk Magic: Use full-fat coconut milk for the creamiest result and richest flavor.
- Pecan Placement: Toast the pecans lightly before sprinkling on top for an enhanced nutty flavor and extra crunch.
- Make Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this casserole a day in advance and reheat before serving, making holiday meal prep a breeze.
- Customize Your Spices: Feel free to experiment with additional warm spices like nutmeg or a pinch of ground ginger for extra depth of flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 0mg
