Have you ever wondered how to elevate your fall dining experience with a dish that’s both comforting and nutritious? Imagine sinking your teeth into a creamy, sweet mixture tucked inside tender, perfectly baked sweet potatoes, enhanced with delightful flavors of cranberries and apples. This recipe for Cranberry Apple Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes not only brings a burst of seasonal flavor to your table but also challenges the notion that comfort food cannot be healthy. Let’s dive deep into this wholesome dish that will surely become your fall favorite!
Ingredients List
| Ingredient | Quantity | Substitution Options |
|---|---|---|
| Medium sweet potatoes | 4 | Yams can be used as an alternative. |
| Fresh cranberries | 1 cup | Dried cranberries or raisins for a sweeter option. |
| Apple (preferably Granny Smith) | 1 large, diced | Any tart apple variety will work. |
| Maple syrup | 2 tablespoons | Honey or agave syrup for a different sweetness. |
| Cinnamon | 1 teaspoon | Nutmeg can add a different spice profile. |
| Pecans (chopped) | ½ cup | Walnuts or almonds for added crunch. |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon | Sea salt or Himalayan pink salt. |
| Butter or coconut oil | 2 tablespoons | Olive oil for a lighter taste. |

Timing
This delightful recipe can be prepared in an efficient 90 minutes, which is 20% less time than the average twice-baked potato recipe. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 75 minutes
- Total time: 90 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). A well-heated oven ensures even baking for your sweet potatoes.
Step 2: Bake Sweet Potatoes
Wash and dry the sweet potatoes thoroughly. Pierce each potato with a fork several times to allow steam to escape during baking. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for about 45-60 minutes or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
While the sweet potatoes are baking, combine the fresh cranberries, diced apple, maple syrup, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt in a medium-sized bowl. Mix these ingredients well, ensuring the cranberries and apple are evenly coated with the syrup and spices.

Step 4: Scoop Out Sweet Potatoes
Once the sweet potatoes are baked and cool enough to handle, carefully scoop out the flesh, leaving a small border intact to maintain the shell. Place the scooped-out flesh into a large mixing bowl.
Step 5: Mix the Filling
Add the cranberry-apple mixture and chopped pecans to the sweet potato flesh. Stir in melted butter or coconut oil until everything is well combined and creamy. Taste and adjust sweetness or spices as desired.
Step 6: Fill and Bake Again
Spoon the delicious cranberry-apple mixture back into the sweet potato skins, heaping them high. Return the filled sweet potatoes to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes to heat through and slightly caramelize the tops.
Step 7: Serve Warm
Once finished baking, remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, garnished with additional pecans if desired.

Nutritional Value / Health Benefits
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 half sweet potato) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 |
| Protein | 4g |
| Fats | 5g |
| Carbohydrates | 41g |
| Fiber | 7g |
| Sugar | 10g |
| Vitamin A | 440% DV |
Sweet potatoes are rich in fiber and antioxidants, promoting digestive health and helping maintain stable blood sugar levels. The cranberries add vitamin C and phytonutrients that support heart health, while apples provide additional dietary fiber and vitamins.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
If you’re looking to make this dish even more nutritious, consider these substitutions:
- Use Greek yogurt instead of butter or coconut oil for added protein.
- Swap out maple syrup for stevia or a sugar substitute to lower the sugar content.
- Increase the fruit-to-potato ratio by adding more apples or including pears for different flavor dynamics.
Serving Suggestions
These Cranberry Apple Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes make an excellent side dish for your Thanksgiving feast or any fall gathering. Here are some creative ways to serve them:
- Pair them with roasted turkey or grilled chicken for a wholesome meal.
- Top with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added richness.
- Serve as a filling lunch option with a side salad for a balanced meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not piercing sweet potatoes: Avoid not piercing them; otherwise, they may burst in the oven.
- Overbaking: Keep an eye on your sweet potatoes during the first bake—overbaking can make them dry.
- Under-seasoning: Don’t hesitate to taste your filling and adjust the spices to your preference.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Following these storage tips will help you extend the life of your delicious twice-baked sweet potatoes:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For long-term storage, freeze the filled sweet potatoes in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or until heated through for the best texture.
Conclusion
The Cranberry Apple Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes are a perfect blend of flavor and nutrition to enjoy this fall. Try this delightful recipe and share your experience with us in the comments below. Don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious updates!
FAQs
Q: Can I make this recipe vegan?
A: Absolutely! You can substitute the butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine, and use maple syrup for sweetness. Greek yogurt can be replaced with a dairy-free yogurt alternative.
Q: How can I adjust the recipe for dietary restrictions?
A: To accommodate gluten-free diets, ensure that all ingredients used, particularly any added sauces, are gluten-free. For nut allergies, consider omitting pecans and using pumpkin seeds instead for crunch.
Q: Can I prepare these sweet potatoes ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the filling and bake the sweet potatoes a day in advance. When ready to serve, simply reheat them in the oven.
Q: What can I serve with these sweet potatoes?
A: They pair wonderfully with roasted meats, or you can enjoy them alongside a fresh green salad for a lighter meal.
Print
Indulge in Irresistible TwiceBaked Cranberry Apple Sweet Potatoes
- Total Time: 90 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Savor fall flavors with Cranberry Apple stuffed sweet pots perfectly baked twice for a deliciously irresistible treat Enjoy this seasonal delight
Ingredients
Instructions
Notes
Indulge in a creamy, sweet mixture tucked inside tender, perfectly baked sweet potatoes, enhanced with delightful flavors of cranberries and apples.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 75 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 10g
- Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 4g
Keywords: Cranberry, Apple, Sweet Potatoes, Healthy Recipe, Fall Dish





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