Description
This recipe features roasted sweet potatoes stuffed with a creamy mixture of ricotta cheese, fresh orange zest, and sweetened with honey or maple syrup, then topped with crunchy toasted almonds. Perfect as a warm brunch option, dessert, or a cozy side dish, it combines sweet, creamy, and crunchy textures for a delightful flavor experience.
Ingredients
Scale
Sweet Potatoes
- 4 medium sweet potatoes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Pinch of salt
Ricotta Filling
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- Zest of 1 orange
- 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Topping
- 1/4 cup sliced or chopped almonds, toasted
- Optional: a drizzle of extra honey
Instructions
- Prepare the Sweet Potatoes. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and dry the sweet potatoes thoroughly. Prick each potato several times with a fork, then rub them with olive oil and sprinkle lightly with salt. This helps the skin crisp up while roasting.
- Roast the Sweet Potatoes. Place the prepared sweet potatoes directly on the oven rack or a baking sheet. Roast for 40–50 minutes, or until they are soft when pierced with a fork.
- Make the Ricotta Filling. Meanwhile, in a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, orange zest, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Stuff the Sweet Potatoes. Once roasted, slice each sweet potato lengthwise and use a fork to fluff the flesh inside. Spoon the ricotta filling generously into each sweet potato half.
- Add Toppings and Serve. Sprinkle the toasted almonds over the stuffed sweet potatoes. If desired, drizzle with extra honey for added sweetness. Serve warm as a delightful brunch, dessert, or side dish.
Notes
- Choose medium-sized sweet potatoes for even roasting and easy handling.
- To toast almonds, dry roast them in a pan over medium heat, stirring frequently until fragrant and lightly browned.
- Maple syrup can be used as a vegan alternative to honey.
- This dish can be prepared ahead by roasting sweet potatoes in advance and assembling just before serving.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute ricotta with a plant-based ricotta alternative.
