Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes

Instructions

1. Bake the sweet potatoes
   Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Prick sweet potatoes several times with a fork. Place on a baking sheet lined with foil and bake for 45-55 minutes, until tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Prepare the filling
   Once sweet potatoes are cool enough to handle, cut them in half lengthwise. Carefully scoop out the flesh, leaving about 1/4-inch border around the skins to maintain their shape. Place the sweet potato flesh in a large mixing bowl.
3. Make the mixture
   Add butter, sour cream, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper to the sweet potato flesh. Mash until smooth and well combined. Stir in half of the cheddar cheese, half of the bacon, and most of the green onions, reserving some for garnish.
4. Fill and top potatoes
   Spoon the sweet potato mixture back into the potato skins, dividing evenly. Top with remaining cheese, bacon, green onions, and chopped pecans.
5. Second bake
   Return stuffed sweet potatoes to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, until the filling is heated through and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
6. Serve
   Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. For extra flavor, drizzle with a small amount of additional maple syrup if desired.