Discover a festive, healthy twist on sweet potatoes with Recipench’s Cranberry Apple Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes. Perfect for family dinners and seasonal celebrations
Nothing says cozy and festive quite like Cranberry Apple Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes. This recipe from Recipench transforms simple, wholesome ingredients into a dish that’s both comforting and visually stunning. Imagine tender, sweet potatoes filled with tart cranberries and juicy apples, all baked to perfection — a perfect balance of flavors that appeals to kids, adults, and anyone seeking easy healthy recipes for the season.
Whether you’re preparing a holiday feast, a weeknight family dinner, or a special comfort food treat, this dish is quick to assemble and impresses on every plate. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes paired with the tangy cranberries makes it a dish that’s both indulgent and wholesome, aligning perfectly with family-friendly recipes and gluten-free diets.
Recipench brings you trusted, budget-friendly meals that are both nutritious and shareable. Save this recipe to your collection — it’s sure to become a go-to for cozy evenings and festive gatherings.
Cranberry Apple Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes
Equipment
- 1 Oven Preheated to 400°F (200°C)
- 1 Baking sheet Lined with aluminum foil
- 1 Aluminum Foil For easy cleanup
- 2 Mixing Bowls One for filling, one for topping
- 1 Spoon or Spatula For mixing ingredients
- 1 Knife For cutting sweet potatoes and apples
- 1 Cutting Board Use a sturdy one for safe slicing
- 1 set Measuring Cups For accurate ingredient portions
- 1 set Measuring Spoons For spices and sweeteners
Ingredients
- 4 medium Sweet Potatoes Washed and scrubbed
- 1 cup Cranberries Fresh or frozen
- 1 large Apple Peeled and diced
- 2 tbsp Butter Unsalted; substitute with coconut oil for vegan option
- 2 tbsp Brown Sugar Optional; adjust to taste
- 1 tsp Cinnamon Ground
- ¼ tsp Nutmeg Adds warm spice flavor
- ¼ cup Pecans Chopped; optional for crunch
- ¼ tsp Salt Enhances sweetness balance
- 1 tbsp Maple Syrup Optional drizzle before serving
Instructions
- Step 1 — Bake the Sweet PotatoesPreheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the sweet potatoes on a foil-lined baking sheet and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until they are fork-tender and the skin begins to pull away slightly. Let them cool just enough to handle safely.
- Step 2 — Prepare the FillingSlice each sweet potato in half lengthwise and carefully scoop out the flesh, leaving a thin layer around the edges to maintain structure.In a mixing bowl, combine the scooped sweet potato, butter, diced apple, cranberries, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mash and mix gently until the ingredients are well blended and slightly creamy.
- Step 3 — Fill the Sweet Potato ShellsSpoon the filling mixture evenly back into each potato shell, forming small mounds on top. Sprinkle with chopped pecans for a bit of crunch and festive flavor.
- Step 4 — Bake AgainReturn the filled potatoes to the oven and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, until the tops are lightly golden and the mixture is heated through.
- Step 5 — Finish and ServeDrizzle with maple syrup before serving for a touch of sweetness. Serve warm as a comforting side dish for holiday dinners, family gatherings, or cozy weeknight meals.
Tips & Tricks
Flavor Boosters
Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger to enhance the seasonal flavor profile. These warming spices complement the sweetness of the potatoes and the tartness of the cranberries beautifully.
Ingredient Swaps
- Use plant-based butter for a vegan-friendly version.
- Mix in nuts, coconut flakes, or dried fruits to add texture and extra nutrients.
- Frozen cranberries can be used directly, no need to thaw, which saves time without sacrificing flavor.
Chef Secrets
- For a more visually stunning presentation, roast the sweet potato shells until slightly caramelized before adding the filling.
- Drizzle a touch of maple syrup or honey on top just before serving for a glossy, eye-catching finish.
- Use a variety of apples for extra complexity — Granny Smith adds tartness, while Fuji or Honeycrisp adds natural sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
- Plate these twice-baked sweet potatoes on a rustic wooden board for a cozy, Instagram-ready look.
- Pair with roasted chicken, turkey, or a hearty vegetarian main for a balanced meal.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to elevate presentation and flavor.
- Perfect as a holiday side dish, a comforting weeknight dinner, or a healthy dessert alternative for sweet potato lovers.
Nutritional Notes & Fun Facts
- Sweet potatoes are rich in beta-carotene, supporting eye health and immunity.
- Cranberries are antioxidant powerhouses, promoting urinary tract health and adding a festive red pop to your dish.
- Apples provide natural sweetness and fiber, making this recipe satisfying yet nutritious.
- Fun fact: Twice-baking sweet potatoes intensifies their natural sweetness and creates a creamier texture, giving every bite a perfect balance of soft and flavorful.
This Cranberry Apple Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes recipe is more than a side dish — it’s a conversation starter, a comfort food favorite, and a Pinterest-worthy meal that everyone will love.
Save it on Pinterest or share it with friends to inspire cozy dinners, festive feasts, or healthy holiday recipes. Recipench brings you trusted, easy, and family-friendly recipes — try it today and let us know your favorite twist in the comments below!