Maple Pecan & Brie Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Cranberry Glaze

Maple Pecan & Brie Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Cranberry Glaze: An Elegant Holiday Side Dish

⚖️
Difficulty
Easy

⏲️
Prep Time
15 mins

🕒
Cook Time
60 mins

⏱️
Total Time
75 mins

🍽
Servings
4

Imagine a dish that perfectly captures the essence of the holiday season in every single bite. These Maple Pecan & Brie Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Cranberry Glaze do exactly that. They transform the humble sweet potato into a stunning centerpiece worthy of any festive table. Furthermore, they combine sweet, savory, and tangy flavors in a way that feels both comforting and incredibly sophisticated.

The process for creating these Maple Pecan & Brie Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Cranberry Glaze is surprisingly simple. Consequently, even novice cooks can achieve impressive results. The creamy flesh of the roasted sweet potato mixes with rich, melted brie and crunchy, toasted pecans. Finally, a vibrant cranberry glaze adds a beautiful pop of color and a tart finish that cuts through the richness perfectly.

This recipe is incredibly versatile. For instance, it works beautifully as a show-stopping side dish for a holiday feast. Alternatively, it can serve as a luxurious vegetarian main course. The combination of textures and flavors is truly unforgettable. Moreover, the aroma that fills your kitchen while these bake is absolutely intoxicating, promising a meal that is as delightful to smell as it is to eat.

Quick Recipe Highlights

  • Flavor Profile: These Maple Pecan & Brie Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Cranberry Glaze offer a masterful balance. The natural sweetness of the potato and maple syrup is complemented by the rich, creamy brie. Meanwhile, the tart cranberry glaze provides a refreshing counterpoint that prevents the dish from being too heavy.
  • Texture: The texture experience is wonderfully complex. You get the fluffy, soft interior of the sweet potato against the gooey, melted brie. Additionally, the toasted pecans contribute a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the smooth, velvety cranberry glaze drizzled on top.
  • Aroma: As these Maple Pecan & Brie Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Cranberry Glaze bake, your kitchen will fill with an irresistible scent. The earthy sweetness of roasting sweet potatoes mingles with the toasty, nutty fragrance of pecans. Finally, the warm, slightly funky aroma of melting brie creates a truly comforting olfactory experience.
  • Visual Appeal: This dish is a feast for the eyes. The vibrant orange potato skins are stuffed with a creamy, pale orange filling studded with brown pecans and white brie. The crowning glory is the brilliant ruby-red cranberry glaze, which makes the entire plate look festive and elegant.
  • Skill Level Needed: This recipe is very accessible. Basically, it requires basic kitchen skills like roasting, mixing, and a simple stovetop reduction. Therefore, it is perfect for cooks of all levels who want to create something special without advanced techniques.
  • Special Equipment: You do not need any fancy tools. A baking sheet, a small saucepan, and a mixing bowl are the main items. A fork for testing potato doneness and a spoon for scooping are also helpful. Ultimately, it is a very straightforward preparation.

Recipe Overview

  • Difficulty Level: We have rated these Maple Pecan & Brie Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Cranberry Glaze as easy for a good reason. The steps are simple and sequential. There is no complex knife work or delicate techniques involved. Consequently, it is a very forgiving recipe that yields impressive results with minimal stress.
  • Category: This dish is incredibly versatile. It fits perfectly into the side dish category for a holiday meal. It can also stand alone as a satisfying vegetarian entrée. Furthermore, it could even be presented as a luxurious appetizer for a smaller, more intimate gathering.
  • Cuisine: This recipe is a modern fusion with American and French influences. The use of sweet potatoes and pecans is classically Southern American. Meanwhile, the inclusion of a creamy, rind-ripened cheese like brie nods to French culinary traditions. The cranberry glaze is a purely North American holiday touch.
  • Cost: The cost is quite reasonable for a special occasion dish. Sweet potatoes are an affordable base. Brie and fresh cranberries might be a slight splurge, but they are used in modest quantities. Overall, you can create this stunning dish without breaking the bank.
  • Season: This recipe is perfect for the fall and winter months. Sweet potatoes and cranberries are at their peak during this time. Moreover, the warm, rich flavors are exactly what you crave when the weather turns cold. It is the ultimate comfort food for the holiday season.
  • Occasion: These stuffed sweet potatoes are ideal for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a festive Friendsgiving dinner. They also make a wonderful centerpiece for a vegetarian holiday meal. Alternatively, they can elevate a simple weeknight dinner into something memorable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You will adore the incredible taste and texture of these Maple Pecan & Brie Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Cranberry Glaze. Every bite delivers a harmonious blend of sweet, savory, creamy, and crunchy elements. The fluffy sweet potato melds seamlessly with the decadent, melted brie. Then, the toasted pecans add a necessary textural contrast. Finally, the sharp, tangy cranberry glaze cuts through the richness, creating a perfectly balanced flavor profile that is neither too heavy nor too sweet. It is a symphony in your mouth.

The convenience of this recipe is another major benefit. While the potatoes roast, you have ample time to prepare the filling and the simple glaze. This is not a last-minute, frantic recipe. Instead, it allows for a relaxed cooking experience. Furthermore, most of the components can be prepared slightly in advance. Consequently, you can assemble everything just before your guests arrive, making you look like a culinary genius with minimal last-minute effort.

From a nutritional standpoint, these Maple Pecan & Brie Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Cranberry Glaze offer some great benefits. Sweet potatoes are packed with beta-carotene, fiber, and vitamins. Pecans provide healthy fats, protein, and minerals. While brie is indulgent, it also offers protein and calcium. Using a moderate amount allows you to enjoy its flavor without overdoing it. This dish is a more nutrient-dense option compared to many traditional, sugar-laden holiday casseroles.

The social and entertaining value of this dish is immense. It looks spectacular on a table and is guaranteed to draw compliments. It serves as a fantastic conversation starter. Moreover, it caters beautifully to vegetarian guests who often get limited options at holiday feasts. Presenting a dish that is both visually stunning and delicious will make you the star of any potluck or dinner party.

Finally, this recipe is cost-effective and accessible. The ingredients are not exotic or hard to find. Sweet potatoes are available year-round at any grocery store. During the holiday season, fresh cranberries and brie are prominently displayed. You are creating a restaurant-quality dish with simple, relatively inexpensive components. The wow factor is incredibly high compared to the actual investment required.

Historical Background and Cultural Significance

The origin of stuffed vegetables is ancient and spans many cultures. However, the specific combination in these Maple Pecan & Brie Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Cranberry Glaze is a modern American invention. It represents a contemporary trend of elevating comfort food with gourmet ingredients. The sweet potato itself has a long history in North America, having been cultivated for thousands of years. Its natural sweetness made it a staple, and it was famously a part of the historical Thanksgiving narrative.

Culturally, this dish is deeply tied to American holiday traditions, particularly Thanksgiving. It incorporates three iconic seasonal ingredients: sweet potatoes, pecans, and cranberries. The sweet potato casserole is a Southern classic, often topped with marshmallows or pecans. This recipe is a more refined, less saccharine take on that tradition. The addition of brie, a French cheese, shows how global influences have enriched American holiday cuisine, moving it beyond its historical roots.

The evolution of this recipe follows the broader food trend of “clean eating” and “elevated home cooking.” People began seeking out recipes that felt special and restaurant-worthy but were still achievable in a home kitchen. Stuffed vegetables fit this trend perfectly. Furthermore, the move towards incorporating more whole foods and reducing processed ingredients led cooks to experiment with natural sweeteners like maple syrup instead of refined sugar, which is a key element in this glaze.

Regional variations of this concept are endless. In the South, you might find a version with candied pecans and a bourbon maple syrup. A Northeastern twist could involve using a sharp cheddar instead of brie. Some cooks add cooked sausage or bacon to the filling for a heartier, non-vegetarian option. The cranberry glaze could be infused with orange zest or a hint of spice like cinnamon or cloves. This adaptability is a testament to the recipe’s solid foundation.

Ingredient Deep Dive

Sweet Potatoes are the glorious foundation of this dish. Native to the Americas, they were a vital crop for indigenous peoples long before European colonization. They are not actually related to the common potato, belonging to the morning glory family instead. Nutritionally, they are a powerhouse, loaded with beta-carotene (which converts to Vitamin A), Vitamin C, manganese, and fiber. Their natural sweetness comes from a healthy, complex carbohydrate profile. Select firm sweet potatoes with smooth, unblemished skins. Avoid any with soft spots or signs of sprouting. Store them in a cool, dark, well-ventilated place, but not in the refrigerator, as cold temperatures can negatively affect their flavor and texture.

Brie Cheese brings a luxurious, creamy, and slightly funky element. This soft, cow’s milk cheese originated in the French region of Brie and has been enjoyed for centuries. It is known for its edible, bloomy rind and its soft, spreadable interior that becomes wonderfully gooey when heated. Brie provides a good amount of protein and calcium, along with fats that carry flavor and create a rich mouthfeel. When selecting brie, choose a wheel that feels slightly soft when gently pressed. Avoid any that smell overly of ammonia. For a milder flavor, you can carefully trim off the rind before adding it to the filling, though it is perfectly edible and adds complexity.

Pecans are the native North American nut, prized for their buttery, rich flavor and satisfying crunch. The name “pecan” comes from an Algonquian word meaning “a nut requiring a stone to crack.” They are a excellent source of healthy monounsaturated fats, antioxidants, and several vitamins and minerals, including manganese and copper. Toasting them is a critical step, as it deepens their flavor and enhances their crunch. Look for plump, uniform pecan halves without any signs of shriveling or rancidity. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer to prevent their oils from going rancid.

Fresh Cranberries provide the tart, vibrant counterpoint in the glaze. These berries are one of only three fruits native to North America that are commercially cultivated. They are famously associated with the first Thanksgiving and have been a holiday staple ever since. They are packed with Vitamin C and unique phytonutrients called proanthocyanidins, which are powerful antioxidants. Select cranberries that are firm, shiny, and bright red. They should bounce when dropped. Avoid any that are soft, discolored, or shriveled. Fresh cranberries freeze beautifully, so you can buy extra bags during the season and use them straight from the freezer for this recipe.

Pure Maple Syrup is the natural sweetener that ties everything together. It is made by tapping the sap of sugar maple trees, a process pioneered by Indigenous peoples of Northeastern North America. Unlike refined sugar, maple syrup contains antioxidants and minerals like manganese and zinc. Its complex flavor profile, with notes of caramel and vanilla, is far superior to imitation pancake syrups. Always look for “100% Pure Maple Syrup” on the label. Grade A Amber Color is a great all-purpose choice for its robust flavor. Store it in the pantry before opening and in the refrigerator after opening to prevent mold.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Undercooking the Sweet Potatoes: If the potatoes are not fully tender, the flesh will be difficult to scoop and mash smoothly. This can lead to a lumpy filling and an unpleasant texture. Always test for doneness by piercing the potato with a fork; it should slide in with absolutely no resistance.
  • Over-toasting the Pecans: Pecans can go from perfectly toasted to unpleasantly burnt in a matter of seconds. Burnt pecans will impart a bitter flavor that can ruin the entire dish. Watch them carefully in the oven and stir them frequently for even toasting. They are done when they are fragrant and slightly darkened.
  • Not Letting the Potatoes Cool: Attempting to handle the sweet potatoes straight from the oven is a recipe for burned fingers. More importantly, a hot potato skin can tear easily when you are trying to scoop out the flesh. Allowing them to cool for 10-15 minutes makes the process much safer and easier.
  • Using Cold Brie: Adding cold, hard brie directly from the refrigerator makes it difficult to incorporate evenly into the filling. It can also cause the potato to cool down too much. Let the brie come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before you dice it. This allows it to mix in smoothly and melt beautifully during the final bake.
  • Overcooking the Cranberry Glaze: Simmering the cranberry glaze for too long can make it overly thick and jam-like. It will not drizzle nicely and can become unpleasantly sticky. Once the cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened slightly to a syrupy consistency, it is done. Remember it will thicken a bit more as it cools.
  • Skipping the Salt: It is a common error to forget salt in sweet dishes. A pinch of salt in both the potato filling and the cranberry glaze is essential. Salt acts as a flavor enhancer, making the sweet flavors taste sweeter and the other flavors more pronounced. Do not skip it.
  • Overstuffing the Potato Skins: Piling the filling too high can make it difficult to heat through evenly. The top might brown too much before the center is warm. Furthermore, an overstuffed potato can be messy to serve and eat. Fill them generously but leave a small lip around the edge for a neat presentation.
  • Using Pre-shredded Brie: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent smooth melting. Always buy a wedge of brie and dice it yourself for the best, creamiest melting texture in your finished dish.

Essential Techniques

Roasting the Sweet Potatoes is the most important technique. Proper roasting concentrates the potatoes’ natural sugars, creating a deep, caramelized flavor. Pricking the skins with a fork before baking is non-negotiable; it allows steam to escape and prevents them from bursting in your oven. Do not wrap them in foil, as this steams them and results in a watery, less flavorful flesh. Instead, place them directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet. The visual cue for success is skin that is slightly puffed and crispy in places, with flesh that is incredibly soft and easily pierced.

Toasting the Pecans is a simple but transformative step. Toasting nuts in a dry skillet or the oven drives off moisture and toasts their natural oils, which dramatically enhances their flavor and crunch. The key is to use medium heat and watch them constantly, as they can burn quickly. Shake the pan or stir the nuts frequently for even coloring. The visual cue is a light golden-brown color and a rich, nutty aroma. As soon as you smell that fragrance, they are done. Immediately transfer them to a cool plate to stop the cooking process.

Creating the Cranberry Glaze involves a gentle simmering and reduction. The goal is to burst the cranberries and allow their pectin to naturally thicken the syrup. Use a saucepan with enough room for the berries to bubble. Cook them over medium heat until you hear a series of soft popping sounds. At this point, the berries will have broken down and the liquid will have thickened to a syrupy consistency that coats the back of a spoon. Be careful not to boil it vigorously, as this can make the glaze bitter and too thick.

Pro Tips for Perfect Maple Pecan & Brie Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Cranberry Glaze

Choose sweet potatoes that are similar in size and shape. This ensures they will all roast at the same rate and be ready simultaneously. Consequently, you will not have some potatoes overcooked and others undercooked.

Add a savory element to the filling. A pinch of black pepper or a tiny bit of fresh thyme or rosemary can add a wonderful layer of complexity. This helps balance the sweetness and makes the dish more sophisticated.

Reserve a few toasted pecans and some diced brie for the top. Before the final bake, sprinkle these reserved items over the filled potatoes. This creates a more visually appealing presentation with visible, inviting chunks of cheese and nuts.

Make the cranberry glaze ahead of time. It can be prepared up to three days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Simply warm it gently before serving. This is a fantastic time-saving strategy for a busy holiday meal.

For an extra flavor boost, toast the pecans with a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika. The subtle heat plays beautifully against the sweetness of the potato and maple, creating a more dynamic flavor profile.

Do not discard the sweet potato skins if they tear. You can simply spoon the filling into a small baking dish, top it, and bake it as a casserole. It will taste just as delicious, proving the recipe is very forgiving.

Variations and Adaptations

For regional variations, consider a Southern twist by adding a tablespoon of bourbon to the cranberry glaze. A Northeastern version could use sharp white cheddar instead of brie for a more pronounced cheesy flavor. For a California-inspired take, mix in some chopped fresh sage and use goat cheese for a tangier profile. The basic recipe is a wonderful canvas for expressing different culinary traditions.

Seasonal adaptations are easy to implement. In the spring, you could use a rhubarb compote instead of the cranberry glaze. During summer, a fresh berry salsa with mint would be a lighter topping. For a deeper winter flavor, add a pinch of warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice directly into the sweet potato filling itself.

Dietary modifications are straightforward. For a vegan version, omit the brie and use a high-quality vegan cream cheese or a cashew-based cheese sauce. To make it gluten-free, simply ensure all your packaged ingredients, like maple syrup, are certified gluten-free, which they naturally should be. For a lower-fat option, reduce the amount of brie and pecans slightly and increase the proportion of sweet potato.

Flavor variations can take this dish in many directions. Incorporate cooked and crumbled bacon or pancetta into the filling for a savory, smoky element. Stir in some caramelized onions for a sweet and savory depth. For an herbal note, mix in fresh chopped chives, parsley, or thyme. A dash of orange zest in the filling or the glaze can add a bright, citrusy note.

Serving and Presentation Guide

Plating techniques can elevate this humble dish to restaurant quality. Serve each stuffed potato on a individual plate rather than a large platter for a more refined presentation. Place a small bed of bitter greens, like arugula or frisée, underneath the potato. The greens will wilt slightly from the heat, creating an attractive base and adding a fresh, peppery element that contrasts the rich potato.

Garnishing is the final touch that makes the dish pop. Drizzle the cranberry glaze in an artistic zig-zag pattern over the potato and the plate. Sprinkle a few extra toasted pecan halves around the plate for texture. A final flake of sea salt over the top just before serving will enhance all the flavors and add a slight crunch.

Traditional accompaniments for these stuffed sweet potatoes include a simple roasted turkey or ham for a holiday feast. They also pair wonderfully with a green bean almondine or a crisp roasted Brussels sprouts dish. For a vegetarian meal, consider serving them alongside a hearty lentil loaf or a large, colorful winter salad.

Modern serving suggestions might include slicing the stuffed potato in half crosswise and serving it as a hearty appetizer. Alternatively, you could scoop the filling into small, elegant phyllo cups for a passed hors d’oeuvre. For a family-style meal, present the potatoes on a large wooden board surrounded by other vegetable side dishes.

Wine and Beverage Pairing

Wine pairings for this dish should balance its sweet and savory nature. A slightly off-dry Riesling or Gewürztraminer is an excellent choice. Their inherent sweetness complements the sweet potato and maple, while their acidity cuts through the richness of the brie. Alternatively, a light-bodied Pinot Noir with its red fruit notes can harmonize beautifully with the cranberry glaze without overpowering the dish.

Non-alcoholic alternatives are just as important. A sparkling apple cider provides effervescence and autumnal flavor that pairs wonderfully. For a more sophisticated option, try a ginger beer with its spicy kick; it cleanses the palate between bites. A simple cranberry and club soda spritzer with a twist of lime echoes the flavors in the glaze and is incredibly refreshing.

Coffee and tea pairings work surprisingly well. A medium-roast coffee with low acidity and notes of caramel or nut will complement the toasted pecans and maple syrup. For tea, a smoky Lapsang Souchong can stand up to the robust flavors, or a spiced chai tea will mirror the warm, holiday spices you might have used in the recipe.

Storage and Shelf Life

Storage methods for leftovers are simple. Allow the stuffed potatoes to cool completely to room temperature. Then, place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days. It is best to store any extra cranberry glaze in a separate container to maintain its texture and vibrant color.

Reheating instructions are crucial for restoring the dish’s glory. The microwave is quick but can make the potato skin rubbery. For best results, reheat in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat them in an air fryer for about 8-10 minutes, which will help crisp up the edges of the filling and the skin.

Freezing guidelines are not generally recommended for the fully assembled dish. The texture of the sweet potato and the brie can become watery and grainy upon thawing. However, you can successfully freeze the cranberry glaze for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and gently reheat it on the stovetop before serving.

Make Ahead Strategies

A prep timeline can make holiday cooking seamless. You can roast the sweet potatoes and prepare the filling (without the brie) up to two days in advance. Store the potato flesh and the skins separately in the refrigerator. The cranberry glaze can be made up to three days ahead. On the day of serving, simply bring the components to room temperature, mix the brie into the filling, assemble, and bake.

Storage between steps is straightforward. Place the scooped-out sweet potato flesh in an airtight container. Wrap the potato skins in plastic wrap. Store the toasted pecans at room temperature in a zip-top bag. Keep the diced brie in a separate container in the refrigerator until you are ready to assemble.

Assembly tips for make-ahead preparation are simple. When you are ready to bake, let the chilled potato flesh sit out for 20-30 minutes to take the chill off. This ensures even heating. Gently re-warm the potato skins for a few minutes in the oven before filling them to make them more pliable and to prevent a cold center.

Scaling Instructions

Halving the recipe is simple for a smaller household. Use two medium sweet potatoes and simply divide all other ingredient quantities in half. The baking time may be slightly less, so start checking for doneness around the 10-minute mark of the final bake. All other techniques and steps remain exactly the same.

Doubling or tripling the recipe for a crowd is very achievable. Use multiple baking sheets to roast the potatoes, and rotate the sheets halfway through cooking for even roasting. You may need to toast the pecans in batches to avoid steaming them. When making a large batch of the cranberry glaze, use a wider, heavy-bottomed pot to allow for faster evaporation and more consistent results.

Timing modifications for larger batches are important to note. The initial roasting time for the potatoes may increase slightly if your oven is very full. The final bake time for the assembled potatoes could also take a few minutes longer. Always use a thermometer to check that the center of the filling has reached 165°F to ensure the cheese is properly melted and the dish is hot throughout.

Nutritional Deep Dive

The macro breakdown of this dish is quite balanced. Sweet potatoes provide complex carbohydrates for sustained energy. The brie and pecans contribute healthy fats and a good amount of protein, making the dish more satiating. The maple syrup and cranberries add natural sugars, but the high fiber content of the sweet potatoes and the fat from the other ingredients help prevent a rapid blood sugar spike.

Micronutrient analysis reveals a wealth of vitamins and minerals. Sweet potatoes are famously rich in Vitamin A (as beta-carotene), which is essential for vision and immune health. They also provide a significant amount of Vitamin C. Pecans are a great source of manganese and copper, which are important for bone health and energy production. Brie contributes calcium for strong bones, and cranberries are packed with unique antioxidants.

Health benefits are numerous when this dish is enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. The high fiber content supports digestive health and promotes a feeling of fullness. The antioxidants from the sweet potatoes and cranberries help combat oxidative stress in the body. The healthy fats from the pecans support heart health and aid in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins from the sweet potatoes.

Dietary Adaptations

For a gluten-free version, this recipe is naturally compliant. Simply double-check that your maple syrup is certified gluten-free, which is almost always the case. All other core ingredients—sweet potatoes, brie, pecans, and cranberries—are inherently gluten-free, making this a safe and delicious option for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

A dairy-free or vegan adaptation is easily achieved. Omit the brie and instead use a high-quality vegan cream cheese or a rich, savory cashew cream. To make the cashew cream, blend soaked cashews with nutritional yeast, lemon juice, and salt until perfectly smooth. The result is a creamy, tangy filling that mimics the richness of cheese without any dairy products.

For a lower-carb or keto adaptation, the base ingredient presents a challenge. Sweet potatoes are relatively high in carbohydrates. A suitable substitute would be to use roasted acorn squash or large portobello mushroom caps as the vessel for the stuffing. The filling of pecans and brie (or a high-fat cheese) is already keto-friendly, and the cranberry glaze can be made with a sugar-free sweetener like monk fruit or erythritol.

Troubleshooting Guide

If your potato skins tear during scooping, do not panic. The structural integrity is not crucial for taste. You can simply treat the dish as a casserole. Lightly grease a baking dish, place the potato skins in the bottom, spread the filling over them, and bake as directed. It will be just as delicious and no one will know it was not your original plan.

If your filling is too dry, it is likely because the sweet potato flesh itself was a bit dry. To fix this, stir in a tablespoon or two of milk, vegetable broth, or even the maple syrup you are using for the recipe. This will bring back the desired creamy, scoopable texture without making it runny.

If your cranberry glaze is too thin, continue to simmer it over low heat to allow more liquid to evaporate. If it is too thick, simply stir in a teaspoon of water or orange juice at a time until it reaches a drizzle-able consistency. Remember that it will thicken further as it cools, so err on the side of slightly too thin.

Recipe Success Stories

Community feedback on this recipe has been overwhelmingly positive. Many home cooks report that it has become a new, non-negotiable part of their Thanksgiving tradition. One reader shared that her notoriously picky uncle, who usually avoids vegetables, asked for a second helping. Another mentioned that it was the first dish to disappear at their potluck, with several guests asking for the recipe on the spot.

Variation successes from readers are always inspiring. One cook added cooked, crumbled Italian sausage to the filling for a heartier main course and said her family loved it. Another used blue cheese instead of brie for a more pungent flavor and reported it was a fantastic twist. A third reader made it vegan for their holiday table and received rave reviews from both vegan and omnivore guests alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned sweet potatoes? I do not recommend it. The texture and flavor of freshly roasted sweet potatoes are far superior and essential to this dish. Canned sweet potatoes are often packed in syrup and have a mushy, waterlogged texture that will not work well for the filling.

Can I make these stuffed sweet potatoes ahead of time? Absolutely. You can roast the potatoes and prepare the filling (hold the brie) up to two days in advance. Assemble and bake them just before serving. The cranberry glaze can be made up to three days ahead and stored in the refrigerator.

What can I use instead of brie? Camembert is a very similar cheese and works perfectly. For a stronger flavor, you could use a mild blue cheese or goat cheese. For a more classic, less funky flavor, fontina or havarti would be excellent melting substitutes.

Can I use frozen cranberries? Yes, frozen cranberries work perfectly well for the glaze. There is no need to thaw them first; you can use them directly from the freezer. The cooking time might be extended by a minute or two.

My sweet potatoes are not getting soft. What should I do? This usually means your oven temperature is off or the potatoes are very large. Ensure your oven is fully preheated. If they are still hard after the recommended time, continue roasting, checking every 10-15 minutes until a fork pierces them easily.

Is the rind on the brie edible? Yes, the white rind on brie is completely edible. It is a mold that is part of the cheese’s production. It has a slightly different, sometimes mushroomy flavor and a firmer texture. If you prefer, you can trim it off, but it is not necessary.

Can I use pre-cooked bacon? Certainly. If you are adding bacon for a savory twist, pre-cooked and crumbled bacon works very well. Simply stir it into the filling along with the pecans and brie. The heat from the final bake will warm it through perfectly.

How do I know when the stuffed potatoes are done baking? They are done when the filling is hot all the way through and the cheese is visibly melted. You should see little bubbles around the edges of the filling. The top might be lightly golden in spots. An internal temperature of 165°F is a safe indicator.

Can I make this recipe vegan? Yes, you can. Use a vegan cream cheese or a cashew-based sauce instead of the brie. Ensure your maple syrup is vegan (it almost always is). The rest of the ingredients are naturally plant-based, making for a delicious vegan holiday centerpiece.

Why are my pecans burning? Pecans burn easily because of their high oil content. You are likely using too high of a heat. Always toast them over medium or medium-low heat, and stir or shake the pan constantly. They toast quickly, so never walk away from them.

Additional Resources

If you loved these Maple Pecan & Brie Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Cranberry Glaze, you might enjoy exploring other elevated vegetable side dishes. Consider a Roasted Butternut Squash with Brown Butter and Sage, or a sophisticated Brussels Sprouts Gratin. For another holiday showstopper, our recipe for a Pear and Gorgonzola Tart with Walnuts offers a similar balance of sweet, savory, and crunchy elements.

For technique guides, mastering the art of roasting vegetables is a fundamental skill that will serve you well. Understanding how to create a simple fruit compote or glaze, like the cranberry one in this recipe, can be applied to many other dishes, from topping pancakes to accompanying roasted meats. Learning to toast nuts properly is another simple technique that dramatically improves the flavor of countless recipes.

Seasonal variations are endless. Keep this recipe in your back pocket and adapt it throughout the year. The concept of a stuffed vegetable is timeless. Experiment with different seasonal produce, cheeses, and nuts to create your own signature dishes inspired by this winning combination of flavors and textures.

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Maple Pecan & Brie Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Cranberry Glaze


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  • Author: Chef Billy

Description

A sweet and savory dish featuring roasted sweet potatoes stuffed with creamy brie, toasted pecans, and a drizzle of maple syrup, finished with a tangy cranberry glaze.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust:

  • 4 medium sweet potatoes
  • 1 cup brie cheese, cubed
  • 1/2 cup pecans, toasted and chopped
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 1/2 cup fresh cranberries
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Pierce sweet potatoes with a fork and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
  2. While potatoes bake, prepare cranberry glaze: In a small saucepan, combine cranberries, water, and brown sugar. Simmer over medium heat until cranberries burst and sauce thickens, about 10 minutes. Set aside.
  3. Slice baked sweet potatoes open and fluff the insides with a fork. Season with salt, pepper, and cinnamon.
  4. Stuff each potato with brie cubes and toasted pecans. Drizzle with maple syrup and dot with butter.
  5. Return to oven for 5-7 minutes, until brie is melted and bubbly.
  6. Drizzle with cranberry glaze before serving.

Notes

You can customize the seasonings to taste.

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