Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
To Bake (Recommended for best flavor): Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Pierce sweet potatoes all over with a fork. Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until very tender. Let cool, then scoop out the flesh.
To Boil: Peel and cube sweet potatoes. Place in a pot and cover with water. Boil for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender. Drain thoroughly.
Once cooked, place the sweet potatoes in a large bowl and mash until smooth.
Step 2: Make the Filling
Lower your oven temperature to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch or a similar 3-quart baking dish.
To the bowl of mashed sweet potatoes, add the granulated sugar, brown sugar, beaten eggs, melted butter, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
Using a hand mixer or a sturdy whisk, beat the mixture until it is smooth, well-combined, and creamy.
Pour the filling into the prepared baking dish and spread it into an even layer.
Step 3: Create the Pecan Streusel Topping
In a separate medium bowl, combine the brown sugar, flour, chopped pecans, and the optional ½ teaspoon of cinnamon.
Add the cold, cubed butter. Using a pastry cutter, your fingers, or a fork, work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture is crumbly and the butter is about the size of peas.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Sprinkle the pecan streusel topping evenly over the entire surface of the sweet potato filling.
Place the dish in the preheated 350°F (175°C) oven and bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the filling is set (it shouldn’t jiggle much in the center) and the streusel topping is golden brown and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Let the casserole cool for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows it to set slightly, making it easier to scoop.
Serve warm and watch it disappear! This is the perfect companion to your holiday turkey, ham, and all the classic sides.
Pro-Tip: For an extra decadent touch, you can substitute half the milk with pure maple syrup in the filling, or add a handful of mini marshmallows on top of the streusel for the last 5 minutes of baking for a classic, gooey finish
