Bake the Sweet Potatoes:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Wash and dry the sweet potatoes. Pierce each potato a few times with a fork.
Place the sweet potatoes directly on the oven rack and bake for 45-60 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
Prepare the Filling:
Once the sweet potatoes are cool enough to handle, slice them in half lengthwise.
Scoop out the flesh, leaving a small border around the edges to help maintain the potato’s shape.
In a mixing bowl, combine the sweet potato flesh with the softened butter, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Mash until smooth and well combined.
Refill and Top the Potatoes:
Spoon the sweet potato mixture back into the potato skins.
In a small bowl, mix the chopped walnuts with the brown sugar (if using).
Sprinkle the walnut mixture over the top of each sweet potato.
Bake Again:
Place the filled sweet potatoes on a baking sheet.
Return them to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the sweet potatoes are heated through.
Serve:
Serve warm as a delicious side dish or dessert.
Pro Tip: For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle a bit more maple syrup over the walnuts just before serving! 🍯
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