Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Natural Sweetness: Baking the sweet potatoes brings out their natural sugars, reducing the need for additional sweeteners.
Healthier Option: This recipe avoids the excessive use of butter and sugar commonly found in traditional versions, offering a lighter yet flavorful alternative.
Dietary Friendly: It's entirely plant-based and can be adapted to be gluten-free, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.

Ingredients

3½ cups mashed sweet potatoes
⅔ cup non-dairy milk (such as oat milk, soy milk, or coconut milk)
2 tablespoons sweetener of choice (e.g., pure maple syrup, agave, or coconut sugar)
3 tablespoons almond butter, tahini, coconut oil, vegan butter, or omit for fat-free
¾ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground ginger
Optional pinch of nutmeg
2 cups vegan marshmallows or toppings of choice

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Bake the sweet potatoes until soft. Once cooled, remove the skins and mash until smooth.
Mix the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, non-dairy milk, sweetener, chosen fat (if using), salt, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. Stir until thoroughly combined.
Assemble the Casserole: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch baking dish and spread the sweet potato mixture evenly into the dish.
Initial Baking: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes.
Add Toppings: Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle with vegan marshmallows or your preferred toppings.
Final Baking: Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden and the casserole is bubbly.
Serve: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving warm.

Servings and Timing

Servings: This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

Nut-Free: Omit the almond butter or tahini, or substitute with a seed butter like sunflower seed butter.
Gluten-Free: Ensure all ingredients, including toppings, are certified gluten-free.
Different Toppings: Instead of marshmallows, consider a pecan streusel topping made with chopped pecans, oats, and a touch of maple syrup.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

FAQs

Can I prepare this casserole in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole without the topping and refrigerate it overnight. When ready to serve, add the topping and bake as directed.

What type of sweet potatoes should I use?

Any variety of sweet potatoes, including orange, white, or purple, will work well in this recipe.

Is it necessary to add a fat source like almond butter or coconut oil?

Adding a fat source enhances the richness and texture of the casserole, but it can be omitted for a fat-free version.

Can I use canned sweet potato puree?

Yes, canned sweet potato puree can be used as a time-saving alternative to baking and mashing fresh sweet potatoes.

Are there vegan alternatives to marshmallow toppings?

Absolutely, you can use vegan marshmallows or opt for a streusel topping made with nuts, oats, and a sweetener like maple syrup.

How can I make the casserole sweeter without adding refined sugar?

Baking the sweet potatoes enhances their natural sweetness. Additionally, using natural sweeteners like maple syrup or agave can increase sweetness without refined sugars.

Can I freeze the casserole?

While it's possible to freeze the casserole, the texture may change upon thawing. If you choose to freeze it, do so without the topping and add fresh topping before reheating.

What non-dairy milk works best in this recipe?

Coconut milk provides a creamy texture, but almond, soy, or oat milk are also suitable alternatives.

How can I add more flavor to the casserole?

Incorporating additional spices like nutmeg, cloves, or orange zest can enhance the flavor profile.

Is this casserole suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Yes, as long as all ingredients and toppings used are certified gluten-free.

Conclusion

This Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole offers a healthier and equally delicious alternative to the traditional dish. Its natural sweetness and customizable options make it a versatile addition to any holiday table, ensuring that all guests can enjoy this classic favorite.