Blanche's Decadent Sweet Potato Casserole 🍠✨

This delightful sweet potato casserole is a comforting classic that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy family dinners. The creamy, sweet potato filling pairs beautifully with a crunchy pecan topping, making it a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it's easy to prepare ahead of time!

Imagine the warm aroma wafting through your kitchen as it bakes. Enjoy this dish as a side or even as a unique dessert! It's delicious on its own but pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert lovers. 🍨

Ingredients

For the sweet potato base

• 3 cups cooked sweet potatoes, mashed
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 eggs, beaten
• ½ stick (4 tablespoons) butter, softened
• ½ cup milk
• ½ tsp. salt
• ½ tsp. vanilla extract

For the topping

• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
• ⅓ cup melted butter or margarine

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, beaten eggs, softened butter, milk, salt, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well blended.

🍴 The sweet potatoes should be fully cooked and cooled slightly for easier mixing. You can use leftover sweet potatoes or canned ones—just ensure they're drained well!

3. Pour the sweet potato mixture into a greased casserole dish.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together the brown sugar, chopped pecans, all-purpose flour, and melted butter until crumbly.

🥜 For an extra twist, try substituting walnuts or almonds for the pecans, or for a hint of spice, sprinkle in some cinnamon or nutmeg!

5. Spread the topping evenly over the sweet potato mixture.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.

⏰ Keep an eye on it in the last few minutes of baking—if the topping starts to get too dark, cover it with aluminum foil to prevent burning.

Variations

• Maple Pecan: Replace the brown sugar in the topping with ¾ cup of maple syrup for a more complex flavor.
• Vegan: Substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use plant-based butter and milk.
• Sweet Potato Mash Alternative: For a twist, try mixing in mashed bananas or apples for a fruity flavor upgrade.
• Make-ahead option: You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if you bake it straight from the fridge!

Enjoy your delightful creation! This casserole is bound to bring warmth and sweetness to your table. 🍽️❤️