Apple Sweet Potato Bake

 Here's a delightful recipe for

Apple Sweet Potato Bake, a heartwarming and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of apples with the richness of sweet potatoes:

Ingredients:

• For the Sweet Potatoes:

  • 2-3 pounds sweet potatoes (depending on size), peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• For the Apples:

  • 3-4 large apples (tart varieties like Granny Smith or Braeburn work well), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground allspice (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter

• For the Topping (Optional):

  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: In a large bowl, toss the cubed sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread the sweet potatoes on a baking sheet in a single layer and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly golden brown.

3. While Sweet Potatoes Bake, Prepare the Apples: In a separate bowl, combine the sliced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice (if using).

4. Assemble the Bake: Once the sweet potatoes are partially cooked, remove them from the oven and reduce the temperature to 375°F (190°C).

5. Layer the Ingredients: In a greased baking dish, spread the partially cooked sweet potatoes in an even layer. Top them with the apple mixture.

6. Dot with Butter: Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top of the apple layer.

7. Optional Topping: If using, sprinkle the chopped pecans or walnuts and additional brown sugar over the top.

8. Bake Again: Bake the assembled dish for another 20-25 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown and crisp (if using).

9. Serve: Let the Apple Sweet Potato Bake cool slightly before serving. Enjoy it warm on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra decadent treat.

Tips:

• If your sweet potatoes are very large, you can cut them into 3/4-inch cubes, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• For a richer flavor, you can substitute butter with melted coconut oil.
• Don't love nuts? You can skip the topping or substitute with granola or chopped dried fruit for a different textural experience.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.

This Apple Sweet Potato Bake is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a side dish, a vegetarian main course, or even a comforting dessert. It's a perfect way to celebrate the fall season and enjoy the delicious flavors of apples and sweet potatoes.