If you’re searching for a cozy and wholesome dessert or side dish that captures all the best flavors of fall, these Apple Spiced Stuffed Sweet Potatoes are it. Sweet roasted potatoes meet buttery cinnamon apples, crunchy pecans, and a drizzle of maple syrup — creating a dish that’s comforting, aromatic, and naturally delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Apple Spiced Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Recipe
This recipe is everything you want on a chilly autumn evening. The natural sweetness of the roasted sweet potatoes pairs perfectly with tender, spiced apples. Each serving is warm, fragrant, and nourishing — like a baked apple pie without the fuss.
You’ll love it because:
- It’s simple and wholesome — made with everyday ingredients.
- Naturally sweetened with maple syrup, no refined sugar.
- Perfect for meal prep or holiday gatherings.
- Easy to make vegan or dairy-free with one small swap.
- Feels indulgent but is surprisingly light and nutrient-rich.
Whether you serve it as a side at Thanksgiving or a cozy dessert on a weeknight, this recipe is guaranteed to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients for Apple Spiced Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
For the Base
- 4 medium sweet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons butter 🧈 (or coconut oil for vegan option)
For the Filling
- 2 apples, peeled and diced 🍎
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup 🍁
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ⅛ teaspoon ground cloves
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Topping
- ¼ cup chopped pecans 🥜
- 2 tablespoons dried cranberries 🍒
- Greek yogurt or whipped cream (optional for serving)
Apple Spiced Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Equipment
- baking sheet
- fork for piercing sweet potatoes
- skillet for sautéing apples
- spatula or spoon for stirring filling
- knife for slicing sweet potatoes
Ingredients
- 4 medium sweet potatoes
- 2 tbsp butter or coconut oil (for vegan option)
- 2 apples, peeled and diced
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/8 tsp ground cloves
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
- 2 tbsp dried cranberries
- Greek yogurt or whipped cream (optional for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub and dry sweet potatoes. Pierce each with a fork several times and place on a lined baking sheet. Roast for 45–55 minutes until tender.
- While potatoes roast, melt butter or coconut oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced apples and cook for 4–5 minutes until they start to soften.
- Stir in maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Cook 2–3 more minutes until the apples are glossy and fragrant.
- Once potatoes are cooked, cool slightly and slice each lengthwise. Fluff the insides with a fork, then fill each with the apple mixture.
- Top with chopped pecans and dried cranberries. Add a dollop of Greek yogurt or whipped cream if desired and serve warm.
Notes
Nutrition
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
- Sweet Potatoes: Choose medium-sized potatoes for even roasting. Orange-fleshed varieties like Beauregard or Jewel offer the creamiest texture and richest flavor.
- Apples: Use a mix of sweet and tart — Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith are perfect.
- Butter: Swap for coconut oil or vegan butter for a plant-based option.
- Maple Syrup: Can be replaced with honey or agave syrup for a different sweetness profile.
- Pecans: Add a toasty crunch; walnuts or pumpkin seeds work well too.
- Dried Cranberries: They add a tangy contrast — try dried cherries or raisins if preferred.
- Toppings: For a lighter finish, use plain Greek yogurt. For dessert-like richness, go with a dollop of whipped cream or coconut cream.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Roast the Sweet Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub and pat the sweet potatoes dry. Pierce each potato several times with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking.
Place them on a lined baking sheet and roast for 45–55 minutes, or until the skins are wrinkled and the flesh is tender when pierced with a knife.
Pro Tip: For extra flavor, rub the potatoes lightly with oil and a sprinkle of salt before baking.
Step 2 – Prepare the Apple Filling
While the potatoes roast, melt butter (or coconut oil) in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the diced apples and cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften.
Stir in maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Continue to cook for 2–3 more minutes, allowing the spices to bloom and the apples to caramelize slightly.
The mixture should be glossy, fragrant, and slightly thickened — just like apple pie filling.
Step 3 – Assemble and Serve
Once the sweet potatoes are done, let them cool for a few minutes. Slice each one lengthwise and gently fluff the flesh inside with a fork.
Spoon the warm apple mixture into each sweet potato cavity, letting it sink into the soft, orange flesh.
Top generously with chopped pecans and dried cranberries. For an extra treat, add a dollop of Greek yogurt or whipped cream before serving.
Serve immediately while warm, and enjoy that cozy fall aroma filling your kitchen.
Pro Tips for Success
- Bake, Don’t Microwave: Roasting develops the sweet potatoes’ natural sugars and gives them a richer flavor.
- Use Firm Apples: Softer apples can turn mushy — go for crisp ones that hold their shape when sautéed.
- Warm Spices Matter: Freshly ground cinnamon and nutmeg will make a noticeable difference.
- Make Ahead Friendly: Roast the sweet potatoes and cook the apple filling a day ahead. Reheat and assemble when ready to serve.
- Add a Crunch: Toast your pecans before sprinkling for deeper flavor.
- Balance the Sweetness: If your apples are very sweet, add a splash of lemon juice to brighten the filling.
Flavor Variations
- Caramel Apple Twist: Drizzle with homemade caramel sauce for dessert-style richness.
- Savory-Sweet Version: Add a sprinkle of sea salt and omit the cranberries for a balanced, less-sweet side dish.
- Nut-Free Option: Replace pecans with toasted oats or sunflower seeds for crunch.
- Maple Walnut Delight: Swap pecans for walnuts and drizzle with extra maple syrup.
- Cranberry Orange Flavor: Add a little orange zest to the apple filling for a fresh citrus note.
Serving Suggestions
These Apple Spiced Stuffed Sweet Potatoes are incredibly versatile.
- For Dessert: Serve warm with whipped cream, a dusting of cinnamon, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- For Breakfast: Top with Greek yogurt, granola, and an extra drizzle of maple syrup.
- As a Holiday Side: Pair with roasted turkey, glazed ham, or a vegetarian roast for a festive touch.
- Meal Prep: Store in individual containers for a quick, reheatable breakfast or snack.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Microwave or bake at 350°F until warmed through.
- Freeze: Let the stuffed sweet potatoes cool completely, then wrap each in foil and freeze in a resealable bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat before serving.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 300 kcal |
| Protein | 4g |
| Carbohydrates | 46g |
| Sugars | 10g |
| Fiber | 6g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Saturated Fat | 5g |
| Unsaturated Fat | 7g |
| Sodium | 150mg |
| Cholesterol | 15mg |
Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
FAQ About Apple Spiced Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Replace the butter with coconut oil or vegan butter, and use plant-based yogurt or coconut whipped cream for topping. The flavor stays just as rich and comforting.
Which apples work best for this recipe?
Firm, crisp apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith are best. They hold up well during cooking and create a nice contrast to the soft sweet potatoes.
Can I make these ahead for Thanksgiving?
Yes — this recipe is perfect for prepping in advance. Roast the sweet potatoes and prepare the apple filling a day before. Store separately and reheat before assembling.
Can I use other nuts or seeds?
Definitely! Walnuts, almonds, or even pumpkin seeds make great alternatives. For a nut-free option, try toasted oats for crunch.
Is this recipe healthy?
Yes! It’s naturally sweetened, rich in fiber, vitamins A and C, and healthy fats. It’s a satisfying, nutrient-dense option that feels indulgent but is still good for you.
Final Thoughts
These Apple Spiced Stuffed Sweet Potatoes are the definition of comfort food made simple — warm, nourishing, and beautifully spiced. Whether you’re planning a cozy fall dinner, a holiday feast, or a healthy dessert, this recipe brings out the season’s best flavors in every bite. It’s proof that you don’t need fancy ingredients to make something truly special.
So preheat your oven, grab some apples, and get ready to fall in love with this wholesome twist on a classic comfort dish.
