Pecan Praline Sweet Potato Bake Recipe

There’s something magical about the aroma of baked sweet potatoes mingling with buttery pecans and brown sugar wafting through your kitchen. The Pecan Praline Sweet Potato Bake captures the very essence of comfort and celebration — the kind of dish that instantly brings everyone to the table. Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any family gathering, this recipe turns a humble root vegetable into a decadent masterpiece.

Inspired by the warmth of Southern kitchens and passed-down family traditions, this dish transforms everyday ingredients into a memorable side that feels like dessert. The creamy, spiced sweet potato base is topped with a crunchy, caramel-like pecan praline crust — a balance of textures and flavors that’s both nostalgic and indulgent. Whether you’re hosting a festive dinner or simply craving a cozy autumn treat, this recipe promises to become a beloved favorite.

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Ingredients

For the Sweet Potato Base

• 4 large sweet potatoes (about 3 pounds), peeled and cubed

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

• 1/3 cup milk (whole or 2%)

• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten

• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Pecan Praline Topping

• 1 cup chopped pecans

• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar

• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

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Directions

1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
   Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. Place the cubed sweet potatoes in a large pot and cover them with water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Drain well and allow them to cool slightly.

2. Mash and Mix
   In a large mixing bowl, mash the sweet potatoes until smooth. You can use a potato masher or an electric mixer for an extra creamy texture. Add melted butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, milk, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until everything is fully combined and velvety.

3. Spread into the Baking Dish
   Pour the sweet potato mixture into your prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to smooth out the surface evenly, creating a level base for the praline topping.

4. Prepare the Pecan Praline Topping
   In a separate bowl, combine chopped pecans, brown sugar, flour, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture forms a crumbly texture. This topping is the star of the show — it bakes into a golden, slightly crunchy praline layer that perfectly complements the creamy base.

5. Assemble and Bake
   Evenly sprinkle the pecan praline mixture over the sweet potato layer. Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crisp. The edges should be bubbling slightly, and the top should have a caramelized sheen.

6. Cool and Serve
   Allow the bake to rest for at least 10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set beautifully, making each serving sliceable and picture-perfect. Serve warm and enjoy the comforting flavors of buttery pecans and creamy sweet potatoes melting together in every bite.

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Prep Time

20 minutes

Cook Time

40 minutes

Total Time

1 hour

Yield

Serves 8–10

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Pecan Praline Sweet Potato Bake isn’t just a side dish — it’s a statement piece on any holiday table. Here’s why it stands out:

• Creamy and Crunchy: The soft, fluffy sweet potato filling contrasts beautifully with the crisp, buttery pecan topping.

• Sweet Yet Balanced: It’s perfectly sweet without being overwhelming, making it ideal alongside savory dishes like roasted turkey, chicken, or green bean casserole.

• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare it a day in advance and simply bake it before serving.

• Comfort in Every Bite: The flavors evoke cozy, nostalgic feelings of home, warmth, and family.

Whether you’re introducing this dish to your Thanksgiving feast for the first time or continuing a cherished tradition, it’s bound to leave everyone asking for seconds.

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Tips for the Best Pecan Praline Sweet Potato Bake

1. Use Fresh Sweet Potatoes
   Freshly cooked sweet potatoes create a richer, more natural flavor than canned ones. Roasting them before mashing can also add a deeper caramelized taste.

2. Don’t Overmix the Filling
   Overmixing can make the filling dense. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a light, airy texture.

3. Customize the Sweetness
   If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the brown sugar in the filling or topping slightly. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes will still shine through.

4. Add Texture Variations
   You can mix in mini marshmallows under the praline topping for a classic twist, or sprinkle shredded coconut for a tropical note.

5. Make It Ahead
   Assemble the bake (without baking) up to one day in advance. Cover tightly and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake as directed — just add an extra 5–10 minutes of baking time.

6. Storage and Reheating
   Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in a 300°F oven for 15–20 minutes.

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Serving Suggestions

While this dish shines on its own, it pairs wonderfully with classic holiday favorites:

• Roasted Turkey or Chicken: The sweetness complements savory poultry dishes beautifully.

• Green Bean Casserole: A contrast of creamy and crisp textures enhances both dishes.

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Balance sweet and savory with a garlicky side.

• Cranberry Sauce: A tart, fruity accent that cuts through the richness.

For a brunch or potluck twist, try serving it alongside buttermilk biscuits, maple-glazed carrots, or even fresh fruit salad. The combination of textures and flavors makes every bite feel festive and satisfying.

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Nutritional Benefits of Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes aren’t just delicious — they’re packed with nutrients that make this dish a healthier indulgence.

• Rich in Vitamin A: Sweet potatoes are loaded with beta-carotene, which supports healthy vision and immune function.

• High in Fiber: Helps promote digestion and keeps you feeling full longer.

• Antioxidant Powerhouse: Their vibrant orange color comes from antioxidants that protect against inflammation.

• Naturally Sweet: Their inherent sweetness allows you to use less added sugar while still achieving a dessert-like flavor.

When combined with heart-healthy pecans (which provide protein, good fats, and fiber), this recipe offers more than just taste — it delivers nourishment too.

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Variations to Try

Want to give this Southern staple your own creative twist? Here are a few ways to make it uniquely yours:

1. Maple Pecan Sweet Potato Bake

Replace the brown sugar in the filling with pure maple syrup for a deeper, more caramel-like flavor.

2. Coconut Praline Version

Add shredded coconut to the topping and a touch of coconut milk to the filling for a tropical variation.

3. Spiced Pumpkin-Sweet Potato Bake

Mix in 1/2 cup pumpkin puree and a dash of ginger for an autumn flavor fusion.

4. Marshmallow Swirl Bake

Layer mini marshmallows between the filling and praline topping for a gooey, crowd-pleasing surprise.

5. Gluten-Free Option

Substitute the all-purpose flour in the topping with almond flour or oat flour for a gluten-free alternative that retains the same crunch.

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The Heart of the Dish

At its core, the Pecan Praline Sweet Potato Bake celebrates the timeless bond between family, food, and gratitude. It’s not just about the sweet potatoes or the pecans — it’s about the moments spent sharing it. The laughter around the dinner table, the clinking of serving spoons, the warmth of conversation — these are the memories that this dish enhances.

Every spoonful tastes like tradition, comfort, and love. The creamy, custard-like base melts in your mouth, while the crunchy praline topping adds the perfect finishing touch. Whether it’s served beside a holiday roast or enjoyed as a sweet side for Sunday supper, this bake is sure to become a treasured part of your family’s table for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh ones?

Yes! Canned sweet potatoes or yams can be a great time-saver, especially during the busy holiday season. If you choose to use them, make sure to drain off all excess liquid before mashing. This helps prevent the filling from becoming too runny. Since canned sweet potatoes are often packed in syrup or sweetened liquid, you may want to slightly reduce the amount of brown sugar in the filling to keep the flavor balanced. After mashing, taste the mixture before adding the remaining ingredients so you can adjust the sweetness to your preference.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! It’s easy to transform this dish into a completely plant-based option without sacrificing texture or flavor. Simply replace the butter with coconut oil, vegan butter, or a neutral vegetable oil. Swap the milk for almond, oat, or soy milk, and use a flaxseed or chia seed egg substitute — made by mixing 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed or chia seeds with 3 tablespoons water per egg. Let the mixture rest for a few minutes to thicken before adding it in. The result will be just as creamy and delicious, with a naturally sweet, nutty flavor.

How do I prevent the topping from getting soggy?

A soggy topping usually comes from too much moisture in the sweet potato layer or from covering the dish while baking. To avoid this, make sure the sweet potatoes are well-drained and mashed without excess liquid. Also, bake the dish uncovered so the pecan praline topping has a chance to crisp up and caramelize beautifully.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, this sweet potato bake freezes wonderfully. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then wrap tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, reheat it directly from frozen in a 350°F oven until hot and bubbly.

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