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Best Brown Sugar Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole

brown sugar pecan sweet potato casserole - featured image

A rich and creamy sweet potato casserole topped with a crunchy, caramelized brown sugar pecan crust. This recipe avoids marshmallows for a sophisticated texture contrast and deep flavor, making it the perfect side dish for holidays and gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 large sweet potatoes, baked until tender and peeled
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup pecan pieces, chopped
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Pierce sweet potatoes with a fork and bake for 45-60 minutes until very soft. Cool, then peel.
  2. In a food processor, combine peeled sweet potatoes, softened butter, heavy cream, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Pulse until completely smooth.
  3. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Pour the sweet potato mixture into the dish and spread evenly.
  4. In a medium bowl, whisk together brown sugar and flour. Add melted butter and stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
  5. Fold in chopped pecans and a pinch of salt.
  6. Sprinkle the pecan mixture evenly over the sweet potato base and press down gently to adhere.
  7. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and bubbling.
  8. Let cool for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the topping to set.

Notes

For best results, use a food processor to ensure the sweet potato base is ultra-smooth. Toasting the pecans beforehand enhances their flavor. The casserole can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerated before baking. If the topping browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil for the last 10 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: sweet potato casserole, brown sugar pecan topping, holiday side dish, Thanksgiving recipe, gluten-free option, vegan option, comfort food