🎄 Ingredients
For the Sweet Potato Base:
- 4 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 4–5 medium potatoes)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
For the Pecan Topping:
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
👩🍳 Instructions
- Prepare the sweet potatoes: Boil or bake the sweet potatoes until tender. Mash them in a large bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Mix the base: Add sugar, milk, eggs, melted butter, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Whisk until fully combined and smooth.
- Pour and smooth: Spread the mixture evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Make the topping: In a separate bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, melted butter, pecans, and cinnamon until crumbly.
- Assemble and bake: Sprinkle the pecan mixture evenly over the sweet potatoes. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30–35 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve: Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm for the ultimate holiday comfort!
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Classic holiday comfort: A cozy side dish that feels like dessert.
- Perfect balance: Creamy sweet potato base topped with crunchy, buttery pecans.
- Family favorite: A recipe passed down through generations and loved by all ages.
- Make-ahead friendly: Prep it a day in advance and bake before serving — perfect for busy holiday meals.
💡 Tips for Success
- Use fresh sweet potatoes for the best flavor and texture — canned puree can be too watery.
- Don’t overmix the topping: Keep it crumbly for that perfect crunch.
- Want it lighter? Reduce the sugar slightly or use maple syrup for natural sweetness.
- Add marshmallows: For a fun twist, sprinkle mini marshmallows during the last 10 minutes of baking.
- Freeze leftovers: Cool completely, then wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the casserole up to the topping stage, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Add the topping just before baking. Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
Yes, but drain them very well and reduce the sugar slightly since canned potatoes are often sweeter. How do I make it nut-free?
Replace pecans with oats or crushed graham crackers for a similar crunchy topping. What’s the best way to serve it?
Serve warm as a side dish alongside ham, turkey, or roast beef — or enjoy as a sweet finale to your Christmas dinner.
🎁 Final Thoughts
This Christmas Sweet Potato Casserole isn’t just food — it’s family, tradition, and love baked into one dish. With its velvety-smooth sweet potato base and golden pecan topping, it’s a recipe that brings everyone together around the table. Whether it’s part of your Christmas feast or a cozy Sunday dinner, this casserole will always taste like home and holiday joy.