Add a touch of seasonal warmth to your table with this Sweet Potato & Apple Bake! Packed with warm spices, honey-glazed pecans, and tender chunks of yams and tart apples, it’s the perfect side dish for a festive meal or a comforting weeknight dinner.
3 pounds yams—about 4 large
1 cup roughly chopped pecans
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons coconut oil
⅔ cup honey
¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little kick)
½ teaspoon kosher salt
2 cups tart baking apples (e.g., Granny Smith or Pink Lady), peeled, cored, and diced into ¾-inch pieces
Bake the Yams: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Scrub the yams and place them whole on a baking sheet. Bake for 45-60 minutes, until slightly soft. Let cool, peel, and cut into ¾-inch chunks.
Make the Glaze: In a skillet over medium heat, toast the pecans for 3-4 minutes until fragrant. Add butter and coconut oil, letting them melt. Stir in honey, cinnamon, nutmeg, cayenne (if using), and salt. Let the mixture simmer for 4-5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Assemble the Dish: Lightly grease a 9x9-inch or similar 2-quart baking dish. Layer the yams and apples, mixing them evenly. Pour the glaze over the top, ensuring the pecans are spread throughout.
Bake and Serve: Bake for 20-30 minutes, until the apples are fork-tender and the dish is heated through. Serve warm as a cozy, crowd-pleasing side!