Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole

 Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish, perfect for the holidays or a cozy dinner. It's naturally sweet and creamy, with a delicious crumbly topping. This vegan version is free from dairy and eggs, but still rich in flavor. Here's how to make it:

Ingredients:

For the Sweet Potato Filling:

4 medium sweet potatoes (about 3 cups mashed)

1/4 cup coconut milk (or other non-dairy milk)

1/4 cup maple syrup (or agave nectar)

2 tbsp coconut oil (or vegan butter), melted

1 tsp vanilla extract

1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

1/4 tsp salt

1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

For the Topping:

1/2 cup rolled oats (use gluten-free if needed)

1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

1/4 cup coconut sugar (or brown sugar)

2 tbsp coconut oil (or vegan butter), melted

1/4 tsp ground cinnamon

Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Grease an 8x8-inch or similar-sized baking dish.

2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:

Peel and chop the sweet potatoes into cubes.

Boil or steam the sweet potatoes until tender, about 10-15 minutes.

Drain and mash the sweet potatoes until smooth in a large bowl.

3. Make the Sweet Potato Filling:

To the mashed sweet potatoes, add the coconut milk, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and lemon juice (if using).

Mix until the filling is smooth and well combined.

Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.

4. Make the Topping:

In a small bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped pecans or walnuts (if using), coconut sugar, melted coconut oil, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.

Stir until the mixture is evenly coated.

5. Assemble and Bake:

Sprinkle the topping evenly over the sweet potato filling.

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the topping is golden and crispy, and the casserole is heated through.

6. Serve:

Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Enjoy your creamy, sweet, and crunchy Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole!

Tips:

Sweetness: Adjust the amount of maple syrup or coconut sugar to your desired sweetness.

Topping Variations: For a slightly different texture, you can use shredded coconut or chopped almonds in the topping.

Make-Ahead: You can prepare the casserole a day ahead. Assemble it completely, cover it with foil, and refrigerate until ready to bake. Just bake for 35-40 minutes if it's cold from the fridge.

This Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole is a warm, comforting dish that's perfect for holiday gatherings or a delicious side for any meal. Enjoy the perfect balance of creamy sweetness and crunchy topping!