A beloved holiday side dish with a gluten-free, dairy-free twist and a crunchy texture boost!
Ingredients
For the candied pecans:
- 2 heaping cups raw pecan halves
- 1 ½ tbsp melted coconut oil
- 3 tbsp maple syrup
- 3 tsp coconut sugar
- 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped (divided)
- 1 ½ tsp salt (divided)
- ⅛ tsp cinnamon
For the sweet potatoes:
- 3 lbs sweet potatoes (about 4 large)
- ¼ cup + 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 2 eggs, beaten
- ½ cup plain unsweetened almond milk
- 2 tbsp dairy-free butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp salt + more to season the water
Instructions
Make the candied pecans:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a bowl, toss the pecans with melted coconut oil, maple syrup, coconut sugar, 1 ½ tbsp rosemary, 1 tsp salt, and cinnamon.
Spread the pecans evenly on the prepared baking sheet and roast for 7 minutes. Stir and roast for another 5-7 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
Once out of the oven, immediately toss the pecans with the remaining rosemary and salt, then transfer them to a parchment-lined surface to cool.
Make the sweet potatoes:
Place the sweet potatoes in a large pot and add enough water to cover them. Season with salt.
Bring the water to a boil, then reduce to a gentle boil and cook until fork-tender (about 20-35 minutes, depending on size).
Drain the sweet potatoes and let them rest to release excess moisture.
Once cool enough to handle, peel the skins (using a paper towel makes it easier) and place them in a large mixing bowl.
Using a hand or stand mixer, beat the potatoes for 30 seconds. Add eggs, almond milk, maple syrup, melted butter, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt. Beat for another minute on medium speed until smooth (a few lumps are fine).
Assemble the casserole:
Pour the sweet potato mixture into a greased casserole dish and spread evenly. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes.
Remove from the oven, top with the candied pecans, and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
Let the casserole cool slightly before serving.
A warm, comforting dish perfect for any holiday table!
