Maple Pecan Sweet Potatoes

Instructions

1. Prepare the sweet potatoes
   Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the peeled and cut sweet potatoes in a large bowl. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, 1/3 cup maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt until well combined.
2. Season and arrange
   Pour the maple butter mixture over the sweet potatoes and toss gently until all pieces are evenly coated. Transfer to a 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading the potatoes in a single layer.
3. Bake the sweet potatoes
   Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 15 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
4. Prepare the pecan topping
   While the sweet potatoes are baking, prepare the pecan topping. In a medium bowl, combine the pecan halves, remaining 2 tablespoons of maple syrup, brown sugar, olive oil, and vanilla extract. Stir until the pecans are evenly coated.
5. Add the topping
   Remove the sweet potatoes from the oven and sprinkle the prepared pecan mixture evenly over the top. Return to the oven and bake, uncovered, for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the pecans are toasted and fragrant.
6. Serve
   Remove from the oven and let cool slightly for about 5 minutes. If desired, sprinkle with flaky sea salt. Serve warm as a delicious side dish for holiday meals or Sunday dinners.