Twice-Baked Sweet Potato Skins
Twice-Baked Sweet Potato Skins are the perfect mix of comfort and elegance. The first bake softens the sweet potatoes and caramelizes their natural sugars, while the second bake transforms them into crisp-edged, flavor-packed vessels filled with a warm apple-cranberry mixture. A touch of butter, maple or brown sugar, and cozy spices makes the filling rich and balanced, while cheese and herbs on top add a savory finish.
This recipe works beautifully as a holiday side dish, a fall-inspired appetizer, or even a light vegetarian main course. It looks impressive but is simple to prepare, and the balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors makes every bite interesting.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Bake Time: 60–75 minutes total
Total Time: About 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 4 (8 halves)
Ingredients
Base
4 medium sweet potatoes
Filling Mixture
1 medium apple (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), peeled and diced
1/3 cup dried cranberries
2–4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1–2 tablespoons brown sugar or maple syrup
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Pinch of ground nutmeg
1–2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream (as needed)
Pinch of sea salt
Toppings & Garnish
1/2 cup shredded Parmesan or Gruyère cheese
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary or parsley, chopped
1–2 tablespoons additional dried cranberries
1–2 tablespoons olive oil (for rubbing skins)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Scrub and dry sweet potatoes, then rub lightly with olive oil and place on the baking sheet.
Bake for 45–55 minutes, until fork-tender.
Cool slightly, then slice each potato lengthwise.
Scoop out most of the flesh, leaving a thin layer attached to the skin to keep structure intact.
In a bowl, mash the scooped sweet potato flesh with butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and brown sugar or maple syrup. Add milk or cream gradually for a smooth texture.
Fold in diced apple and dried cranberries until evenly distributed.
Spoon the filling back into the potato skins, mounding slightly.
Top with shredded cheese and return to the oven. Bake another 15–20 minutes until heated through and cheese is melted and lightly golden.
Garnish with herbs and extra cranberries before serving warm.
Tips
Choose evenly sized sweet potatoes for uniform cooking.
Pierce potatoes lightly before baking to prevent bursting.
Let potatoes cool enough to handle safely.
Leave about 1/4-inch flesh in skins for sturdiness.
Dice apples small for even texture in filling.
Adjust sweetness gradually based on apple variety.
Use heavy cream for richer texture; milk for lighter version.
Don’t overfill skins or they may collapse.
Broil briefly at the end for extra cheese browning.
Serve immediately for best crisp edges.
Variations
Add chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch.
Mix in cooked crumbled sausage for a savory twist.
Use goat cheese instead of Parmesan.
Add a drizzle of honey before serving.
Incorporate orange zest for brightness.
Add a pinch of cayenne for subtle heat.
Swap cranberries for raisins.
Top with toasted marshmallows for a dessert version.
Mix in sautéed onions for deeper flavor.
Add cooked quinoa for extra texture and protein.
Q&A
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare through filling stage and refrigerate. Bake again before serving.
Can I freeze them?
Yes, freeze after first bake and filling. Reheat from frozen until heated through.
Are they vegetarian?
Yes, as written they are vegetarian-friendly.
Can I make them dairy-free?
Use plant-based butter and milk substitutes. Omit cheese or use dairy-free cheese.
Why are my skins soggy?
They may need a few extra minutes in the oven to crisp.
Can I use white potatoes instead?
Yes, but flavor will differ significantly.
How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate in airtight container for up to 3 days.
Can I reduce the sweetness?
Yes, reduce sugar or maple syrup to taste.
What pairs well with this dish?
Roast chicken, turkey, or a fresh green salad.
Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
Fresh is recommended for structure and texture.
Nutrition
(Approximate per half)
Calories: 220–260
Carbohydrates: 32–36 g
Fiber: 4–5 g
Protein: 5–7 g
Fat: 8–12 g
Sugar: Naturally occurring plus added sweetener
Values vary depending on butter and cheese amounts.
Conclusion
Twice-Baked Sweet Potato Skins combine rustic comfort with festive flavor. The creamy spiced filling, tender apple pieces, and tangy cranberries create balance, while melted cheese and fresh herbs add savory depth. Whether served at a holiday table or as a cozy seasonal side, this recipe delivers warmth, texture, and visual appeal. With simple preparation and flexible variations, it’s a dish you’ll return to again and again.