Maple Pecan Sweet Potato Mash

This Maple Pecan Sweet Potato Mash is a cozy, autumn-inspired side dish that brings together the natural sweetness of tender sweet potatoes, rich maple syrup, warm spices, and buttery toasted pecans. It’s creamy, comforting, and just a little indulgent the perfect addition to holiday dinners, weeknight meals, or festive gatherings where you want something simple yet irresistibly delicious.

Ingredients

• 3 large sweet potatoes (about 2–2.5 lbs), peeled and cubed
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3–4 tbsp pure maple syrup (to taste)
• 1/4 cup milk or heavy cream (add more for extra creaminess)
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional)
• 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup pecans, roughly chopped
• 1 tbsp butter (for toasting pecans)

Instructions

1. Cook the sweet potatoes:
   Add peeled, cubed sweet potatoes to a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil and cook until very soft, about 15–18 minutes.
2. Toast the pecans:
   While the potatoes cook, melt 1 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped pecans and toast for 3–5 minutes, stirring often, until fragrant and lightly golden. Set aside.
3. Mash:
   Drain the cooked sweet potatoes well. Add butter, maple syrup, milk/cream, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy. Add more milk if you prefer a softer texture.
4. Taste & adjust:
   Add additional maple syrup, salt, or spices to your liking.
5. Serve:
   Transfer to a serving bowl. Top with toasted pecans and drizzle with extra maple syrup if desired.

Variations

• Make it richer: Add 1–2 tablespoons of mascarpone or cream cheese to create an ultra-creamy, decadent mash with a slight tang that balances the sweetness.
• Make it dairy-free: Swap in coconut milk and vegan butter. This gives the mash a subtle tropical note while keeping it silky and luxurious.
• Make it herbal: Stir in a pinch of fresh rosemary or thyme. These earthy herbs add a savory depth that pairs beautifully with maple and sweet potatoes.
• Make it savory-sweet: Fold in crisped bacon bits along with the toasted pecans. The smoky saltiness adds incredible contrast and makes each bite more addictive.

Cooking Notes

• Drain the sweet potatoes thoroughly to avoid watery mash dryness gives you more control over the consistency.
• Taste the mash before adding the full amount of maple syrup; sweet potatoes vary in sweetness.
• Toasting the pecans is essential it brings out their natural oils and elevates the nuttiness.

Serving Suggestions

• Holiday Side Dish: Serve alongside roasted turkey, glazed ham, or herb-crusted chicken for a festive, comforting spread.
• Everyday Dinner: Pair with grilled meats or roasted vegetables for an easy, wholesome meal.
• Elegant Presentation: Pipe the mashed sweet potatoes into individual ramekins or swirl them in a shallow dish, then top with extra pecans and a drizzle of maple syrup for a beautiful table presentation.

Tips

• Warm the milk/cream: Adding warm dairy helps the mash stay silky and prevents cooling it down too quickly.
• Mash by hand for texture: A potato masher or fork keeps things soft and rustic; for ultra-smooth mash, use a hand mixer.
• Add maple slowly: Maple syrup can quickly overpower build up to your perfect sweetness gradually.

Prep Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 18 minutes
• Total Time: 28 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~240
• Protein: 2g
• Sodium: ~220mg

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this sweet potato mash ahead of time?
2. Can I substitute walnuts instead of pecans?
3. How can I keep the mash warm before serving?
4. Can I use canned sweet potatoes?

Conclusion

This Maple Pecan Sweet Potato Mash is everything you love about comfort food creamy, cozy, lightly sweet, and finished with a buttery, toasty crunch. Whether you’re planning a holiday feast or simply craving something warm and nourishing, this recipe brings effortless elegance and unforgettable flavor to the table. Enjoy every silky, maple-kissed bite!

Print