Irresistible Cranberry Apple Twice Baked has been a staple in my home ever since I first experimented with sweet potatoes, trying to find a side dish that felt both comforting and a little bit fancy. I remember the autumn day I first perfected this recipe; the aroma of cinnamon and baked apples filled my kitchen, mingling with the earthy scent of roasting sweet potatoes. It was a revelation! This delicious cranberry apple twice baked dish quickly became a family favorite, a perfect blend of sweet and tart that transports you to cozy fall evenings. You’ll find it’s not just a side, but a star on its own. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Irresistible Cranberry Apple Twice Baked

I genuinely believe this dish will become a new favorite in your home. It’s more than just a side; it’s a delightful experience brimming with flavor and warmth. Here’s why I think you’ll absolutely adore my recipe for Irresistible Cranberry Apple Twice Baked:

• Unforgettable Taste: The perfect harmony of tart cranberries and sweet apples baked into creamy sweet potato creates an explosion of flavor in every bite.
• Quick Prep Time: Despite its impressive appearance, the hands-on preparation for this dish is surprisingly minimal, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Nutrient-Rich Goodness: Packed with vitamins from sweet potatoes, cranberries, and apples, it’s a wholesome addition to any meal.
• Budget-Friendly: Made with readily available and affordable ingredients, it’s a smart choice for feeding your family without breaking the bank.
• Family Favorite: Even picky eaters tend to love the sweet and savory balance, making this an excellent choice for family dinners. It’s truly a sweet cranberry apple twice baked dessert that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile Side or Dessert: It easily transitions from a hearty side dish to a comforting dessert, proving itself to be an easy cranberry apple twice baked dish for any occasion.

Ingredients for Irresistible Cranberry Apple Twice Baked

Creating this homemade cranberry apple twice baked delight starts with fresh, quality ingredients. I’ve found that the right components make all the difference in achieving that perfect balance of sweet and tart. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

• 4 medium sweet potatoes – Look for firm, unblemished ones, as they form the base of our dish.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – For roasting the sweet potatoes, ensuring they get perfectly tender.
• 1/2 cup fresh cranberries – These add a vibrant tartness that cuts through the sweetness beautifully.
• 1 large apple, peeled, cored, and diced – I prefer a crisp, slightly tart apple like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for the best flavor.
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar – Just enough to enhance the natural sweetness of the apples and potatoes.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon – A warm spice that pairs wonderfully with both cranberries and apples.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg – Adds a subtle, earthy undertone that complements the cinnamon.
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted – For richness and to help bind the filling.
• 1/4 cup milk or cream – This makes the sweet potato filling wonderfully creamy and smooth.
• Salt and black pepper to taste – Don’t forget these; they balance the sweet flavors and bring everything together.

How to Make Irresistible Cranberry Apple Twice Baked

Making this dish is a truly rewarding experience, and I promise you, the process is simpler than you might think! Follow these simple Cranberry Apple Twice Baked instructions to create a show-stopping side or dessert that everyone will rave about. This is seriously the best Cranberry Apple Twice Baked recipe I’ve ever made.

1. Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to a cozy 400°F (200°C). While it’s warming up, grab your sweet potatoes and pierce them several times with a fork. This helps the steam escape, ensuring they cook evenly and become perfectly tender.
2. Step 2: Lightly rub each sweet potato with 1 tablespoon olive oil. This helps the skin crisp up beautifully. Place them on a baking sheet, and pop them into the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 45-60 minutes, or until they are incredibly tender when squeezed. You’ll know they’re ready when they smell sweet and feel soft.
3. Step 3: Once your sweet potatoes are baked, let them cool slightly so they’re easy to handle. Carefully slice each one in half lengthwise. Using a spoon, gently scoop out the fluffy sweet potato flesh into a large mixing bowl, being careful to leave a thin shell intact. These shells will be our perfect little serving vessels!
4. Step 4: Now for the magic! To the bowl with the sweet potato flesh, add your fresh cranberries, the diced apple, brown sugar, fragrant ground cinnamon, and warming ground nutmeg. Pour in the melted butter and a splash of milk or cream.
5. Step 5: With a fork or potato masher, mash the mixture until it’s as smooth as you like it, or leave it slightly chunky if you prefer a little more texture. Don’t forget to season with a pinch of salt and black pepper to taste. This balances all the sweet flavors, making your Irresistible Cranberry Apple Twice Baked truly phenomenal.
6. Step 6: Spoon this delightful cranberry apple sweet potato mixture back into the empty sweet potato skins. Fill them generously, creating little mounds of goodness.
7. Step 7: Return your twice-baked sweet potatoes to the baking sheet. Pop them back into the oven for another 15-20 minutes, or until they are thoroughly heated through and the tops are slightly golden and caramelized. The aroma filling your kitchen will be absolutely incredible!
8. Step 8: Serve your warm and inviting Irresistible Cranberry Apple Twice Baked sweet potatoes immediately. Get ready to enjoy the perfectly balanced flavors and comforting textures of this easy to make, yet impressive, dish.

Pro Tips for the Best Irresistible Cranberry Apple Twice Baked

I’ve made this dish countless times, and I’ve picked up a few tricks along the way that guarantee a spectacular result every single time. These expert tips will help you elevate your Irresistible Cranberry Apple Twice Baked from great to absolutely unforgettable.

• Don’t overmix the filling: Gentle mixing keeps the sweet potato light and fluffy. Overworking it can lead to a dense, gluey texture.
• Taste and adjust seasoning: Sweet potatoes vary in sweetness, so always taste your filling before baking and adjust the brown sugar, salt, and pepper to your preference.
• Choose the right apple: A firm, slightly tart apple like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith holds its shape and provides a lovely counterpoint to the sweet potato.
• Let them rest: After their second bake, a few minutes of resting allows the flavors to meld and the filling to set, making them easier to handle and even more delicious.

What’s the secret to perfect Irresistible Cranberry Apple Twice Baked?

The real secret lies in fully baking the sweet potatoes the first time until they are incredibly tender. This ensures a creamy, fluffy base for your filling. The combination of fresh cranberries and apples also provides that crucial sweet-tart balance, which is why this dish is so good.

Can I make Irresistible Cranberry Apple Twice Baked ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the sweet potatoes, scoop out the flesh, and prepare the filling up to 24 hours in advance. Store the filling separately in an airtight container in the fridge, and keep the empty sweet potato skins covered. Assemble and bake just before serving.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Irresistible Cranberry Apple Twice Baked?

A common mistake is under-baking the sweet potatoes initially, which results in a tough texture. Another is over-stuffing the skins, making them difficult to eat. Also, be sure to season the filling; a lack of salt can make the dish taste flat despite its sweetness.

Best Ways to Serve Irresistible Cranberry Apple Twice Baked

I love how versatile this dish is! My Irresistible Cranberry Apple Twice Baked sweet potatoes can shine in so many different settings, from a casual weeknight dinner to a festive holiday feast. Here are my favorite ways to enjoy them:

• Holiday Side Dish: These make an incredible addition to your Thanksgiving or Christmas spread. Their vibrant colors and comforting flavors pair beautifully with roasted turkey, ham, or a savory pot roast. They truly elevate the meal.
• Sweet Breakfast Treat: Don’t limit these to dinner! I often enjoy them warmed up for breakfast, sometimes with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of granola. It’s a wonderfully sweet and satisfying start to the day.
• Cozy Dessert: While technically a side, the natural sweetness and warm spices make them a perfect light dessert. For a truly festive cranberry apple treat, serve them with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a drizzle of maple syrup.

Nutrition Facts for Irresistible Cranberry Apple Twice Baked

I find it helpful to know what I’m putting into my body, and I’m sure you do too! Here are the estimated nutritional values per serving for this delightful Irresistible Cranberry Apple Twice Baked dish (the recipe makes 4 servings):

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 7g
• Sugar: 25g
• Sodium: 120mg
• Cholesterol: 25mg

Please remember that these nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on the specific brands and precise measurements of ingredients you use when preparing your own Irresistible Cranberry Apple Twice Baked.

How to Store and Reheat Irresistible Cranberry Apple Twice Baked

Once you’ve enjoyed your amazing Irresistible Cranberry Apple Twice Baked dish, you might find yourself with leftovers – lucky you! Proper storage ensures they stay delicious, and I’ve got some tips to keep them tasting fresh. For best results, allow any leftover portions to cool completely at room temperature before storing.

For refrigeration, transfer the cooled sweet potatoes to an airtight container. They will keep beautifully in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you’ve made a larger batch, this cranberry apple twice baked casserole freezes wonderfully too! Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheating is simple. From the fridge, pop them into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. If reheating from frozen, you can bake them directly from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time. This method works perfectly for your Irresistible Cranberry Apple Twice Baked, bringing back all that comforting flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions About Irresistible Cranberry Apple Twice Baked

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh for Irresistible Cranberry Apple Twice Baked?

Yes, you can! If using dried cranberries, I recommend rehydrating them first by soaking them in a little warm water or apple juice for about 15-20 minutes. This helps them plump up and adds moisture to your Irresistible Cranberry Apple Twice Baked dish. Adjust the added sugar slightly, as dried cranberries are often sweeter.

What is Irresistible Cranberry Apple Twice Baked, exactly?

Irresistible Cranberry Apple Twice Baked refers to sweet potatoes that are first baked until tender, then their flesh is scooped out and mashed with a delicious mixture of cranberries, apples, spices, and other creamy ingredients. This flavorful filling is then stuffed back into the sweet potato skins and baked a second time, creating a wonderfully rich and comforting side dish or dessert.

Can I make Irresistible Cranberry Apple Twice Baked vegan?

Absolutely! To make this dish vegan, simply substitute the butter with a plant-based butter alternative and use a non-dairy milk (like almond milk or oat milk) instead of dairy milk or cream. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan, making it an easy swap for a delicious plant-based version of Irresistible Cranberry Apple Twice Baked.

What kind of apples work best in this recipe?

For the best Irresistible Cranberry Apple Twice Baked, I suggest using a firm, slightly tart apple variety that will hold its shape and provide a nice contrast to the sweet potatoes. Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Fuji apples are excellent choices. Avoid overly soft or mealy apples, as they can become mushy during baking.

Variations of Irresistible Cranberry Apple Twice Baked You Can Try

I love experimenting in the kitchen, and this recipe is incredibly adaptable! Once you’ve mastered the classic version, you might want to try these delicious twists on Irresistible Cranberry Apple Twice Baked to suit different tastes or dietary needs.

• Nutty Crunch Topping: For added texture and flavor, sprinkle a tablespoon of chopped pecans or walnuts over the filled sweet potato halves before the second bake. This gives a lovely crunch that complements the creamy filling.
• Spiced Oat Topping: If you’re looking for a heartier, breakfast-friendly option, try adding a mixture of quick oats, a little extra brown sugar, and a pinch of cinnamon to the top. This creates a wonderful Cranberry Apple Twice Baked with Oats feel, almost like a crumble.
• Cream Cheese Swirl: For an extra layer of decadence, dollop small spoonfuls of softened cream cheese over the filling before the second bake. As it melts, it creates a delightful, tangy swirl that pairs beautifully with the sweet and tart flavors.
• Maple Pecan Glaze: Instead of the simple second bake, drizzle a quick glaze made from maple syrup and a tiny bit of melted butter over the top during the last 5 minutes of baking. This adds a beautiful sheen and an extra touch of sweetness to your Irresistible Cranberry Apple Twice Baked.

Irresistible Cranberry Apple Twice Baked: A 320-Calorie Delight

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Jessica
• Total Time: 95 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

These Cranberry Apple Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes are a delightful combination of sweet and tart flavors. Fluffy sweet potato flesh mixes with cranberries and apples, topped with cinnamon. They are perfect for fall, holidays, or a cozy weeknight meal.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 medium sweet potatoes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup fresh cranberries
• 1 large apple, peeled, cored, and diced
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1/4 cup milk or cream
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Pierce sweet potatoes several times with a fork.
2. Rub sweet potatoes with olive oil and place on a baking sheet. Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until very tender.
3. Once cooled slightly, carefully slice each sweet potato in half lengthwise. Scoop out the flesh into a large bowl, leaving a thin shell.
4. In the bowl with the sweet potato flesh, add cranberries, diced apple, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, melted butter, and milk or cream.
5. Mash the mixture until smooth, or leave slightly chunky for texture. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Spoon the cranberry apple sweet potato mixture back into the sweet potato skins.
7. Return the twice-baked sweet potatoes to the baking sheet. Bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and slightly golden on top.
8. Serve warm and enjoy your homemade cranberry apple twice-baked sweet potatoes.

Notes

• For extra sweetness, drizzle with maple syrup before serving.
• Add a sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch.
• Prepare the sweet potato shells and filling ahead of time and assemble just before baking for convenience.
• Adjust the amount of brown sugar to your preference for these sweet cranberry apple twice-baked delights.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 75 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 sweet potato half
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 25g
• Sodium: 120mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 7g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 25mg