Twice Sweet Potatoes (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Base ingredients

01 - 4 sweet potatoes, medium-sized and scrubbed well
02 - A generous splash of milk or cream, to adjust consistency
03 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature
04 - 1 teaspoon cinnamon powder
05 - 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
06 - ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
07 - A pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper (add to your liking)

→ Optional toppings

08 - Fresh herbs like parsley or chives, chopped finely
09 - Extra brown sugar to sprinkle on top
10 - ½ cup sour cream

# Instructions:

01 - Turn your oven to 375°F (190°C) to preheat. Poke the sweet potatoes with a fork in several spots (this keeps them from splitting open while cooking). Place them on a tray and bake for about an hour, or until they're soft enough to cut with ease.
02 - Once the sweet potatoes have cooled down slightly but are still warm, slice them lengthwise in half. Use a spoon to take out most of the inside, leaving about ¼ inch intact to help the skins hold up.
03 - In a mixing bowl, combine the scooped sweet potato with brown sugar, softened butter, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Smash it all together until creamy and smooth. If the mix feels too thick, stir in a splash of milk or cream to make it softer. Add salt and pepper to suit your taste.
04 - Scoop the mashed sweet potato mixture back into the empty skins. Divide it evenly, filling each shell completely. You can either smooth the tops for a clean look or leave a rustic texture.
05 - Put the stuffed potatoes back on the baking tray and bake in the oven at 375°F for another 15-20 minutes, or until the tops are slightly golden and warmed through.
06 - Let the potatoes sit for a few minutes after pulling them from the oven. Before serving, you can top each one with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of brown sugar, or a bit of fresh chopped herbs if you'd like.

# Notes:

01 - You can prepare these a day ahead by stopping before the second bake. Keep them in the fridge, covered, and add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when you're ready to finish.
02 - For a savory twist, skip the sugar and cinnamon. Instead, mix in shredded cheese, bacon bits, and chopped green onions.
03 - Want extra texture? Sprinkle on some crushed pecans or drizzle a little maple syrup before serving.