Cranberry Apple Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes

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Looking for a side dish that screams fall flavors but also doubles as a show-stopping main for your vegetarian guests? These Cranberry Apple Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes are your answer. Roasted sweet potatoes become vessels of warm, caramelized apples and tart cranberries, lightly sweetened and seasoned for a rustic, cozy plate. Whether you’re planning a festive gathering or a solo cozy night in, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between nourishing and indulgent.

The natural sweetness of the sweet potato pairs so well with the crisp bite of apple and the juicy tang of cranberries. Add in a sprinkle of warm spices and a touch of rosemary, and you’ve got a dish that feels both comforting and refined. It’s festive enough for a holiday table but simple enough to whip up midweek.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make Cranberry Apple Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes, you won’t need a kitchen full of gadgets, but the right tools will make all the difference:

• Baking Sheet: This is where the sweet potatoes roast to tender perfection. Line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
• Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: You’ll need precision when dicing apples and slicing sweet potatoes without breaking the skin.
• Spoon or Melon Baller: Essential for scooping out the potato flesh after baking.
• Mixing Bowl: Where all the filling magic happens—combining sweet potatoes, apples, cranberries, and seasoning.
• Small Skillet (Optional): If you want to slightly sauté the apples for extra caramelization before mixing them into the filling.
• Oven: This is a twice-baked recipe, after all. A reliable oven ensures the perfect roast and reheat.

These tools help streamline the prep and presentation while preserving the delicate potato skin to hold your flavorful filling.

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Ingredients for the Cranberry Apple Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes

• Sweet Potatoes: The base of the dish and natural bowl for the filling. Choose medium-sized sweet potatoes for even roasting and easy stuffing.
• Apples: Crisp, tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp bring a juicy bite that balances the sweetness of the potatoes.
• Dried Cranberries: Add a chewy texture and burst of tart flavor. They contrast beautifully with the soft apples.
• Butter: Helps caramelize the apple and cranberry mixture and adds richness to the filling.
• Cinnamon & Nutmeg: These warm spices enhance the natural flavors of the sweet potato and apple without overpowering them.
• Maple Syrup or Brown Sugar: Just a touch to gently sweeten the mixture and tie together the autumnal flavors.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and brings depth to the dish.
• Fresh Rosemary (Optional): Adds an earthy, aromatic touch that makes this feel extra cozy and refined.

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How To Make the Cranberry Apple Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes

Step 1: Roast the Sweet Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub the sweet potatoes clean, prick them with a fork, and roast on a baking sheet for 45-50 minutes until fork-tender. Let them cool slightly before handling.

Step 2: Prep the Filling

While the sweet potatoes are baking, dice the apples into small cubes. In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and add the apples, dried cranberries, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the apples soften slightly.

Step 3: Scoop and Mix

Cut the roasted sweet potatoes in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to gently scoop out the flesh into a mixing bowl, leaving a thin border so the skins stay intact. Mash the sweet potato flesh and combine with the sautéed apple-cranberry mixture. Stir in maple syrup or brown sugar to taste.

Step 4: Refill and Bake Again

Spoon the mixture back into the sweet potato skins, mounding it generously. Place them back on the baking sheet and return to the oven for another 10-15 minutes until heated through and slightly caramelized on top.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Top with a sprig of rosemary or an extra drizzle of maple syrup just before serving. Best enjoyed warm!

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How to Serve and Store Cranberry Apple Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes

These vibrant twice-baked sweet potatoes are best served warm right out of the oven. Arrange them on a platter garnished with fresh rosemary sprigs for an inviting presentation. They’re perfect as a standalone vegetarian main or an eye-catching holiday side dish next to roasted turkey or glazed ham.

To store leftovers, place the stuffed sweet potatoes in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or pop them into the microwave for a quicker option. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the apples and sweet potatoes may become mushy.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these sweet potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the filling and stuff the sweet potatoes a day in advance. Just store them covered in the fridge and bake the second time right before serving.

What apple variety works best?

Firm and slightly tart apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Pink Lady hold their shape well during cooking and balance the sweetness of the dish.

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

You can, but they will be much more tart and may need a bit of extra sweetener. Sauté them longer to soften and reduce their sharpness.

How can I make this vegan?

Simply swap the butter for vegan butter or coconut oil and use maple syrup as your sweetener.

What proteins pair well with this dish?

It pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, pork tenderloin, or plant-based proteins like lentil loaf or chickpea patties.

Can I serve this cold?

It’s technically safe to eat cold, but it truly shines warm with that cozy, spiced aroma and gooey texture.

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Want More Sweet Potato Recipe Ideas?

You might also like the Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples, which echo the cinnamon-apple warmth in a fuss-free format. Or check out the Apple Enchiladas, a dessert-style companion with a buttery, baked finish.

For a hearty autumnal spread, the Moist Apple Crumble Coffee Cake offers a cozy breakfast or dessert option, and the Air-Fried Potato Wedges provide a savory crunch to contrast the soft, sweet elements of this recipe.

And if you want a grab-and-go dessert, the Raspberry Crescent Rolls are an easy, fruity treat that wraps up any meal beautifully.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this to your holiday or vegetarian boards for later. Just click the Pin button.

If you make it, I’d love to hear your twist! Did you try sautéing the apples longer? Add extra rosemary? Drop a comment below and let me know how it turned out for you.

For more cozy, fruit-forward recipes, follow along on my Pinterest board at LadyPlate.

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