Description
Cranberry Apple Twice-Baked Potatoes combine creamy mashed potatoes with the sweet-tart flavors of diced apples and dried cranberries, complemented by sharp cheddar and warming cinnamon. This comforting side dish is perfect for holiday meals or cozy family dinners, offering a delightful blend of sweet and savory in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Potatoes and Toppings
- 4 medium russet potatoes, scrubbed clean
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Chopped fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)
Filling
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp white cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced tart apple (like Granny Smith)
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat and Bake Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Rub each russet potato with olive oil and place them directly on the oven rack or a baking sheet. Bake the potatoes for 50 to 60 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork. Allow them to cool slightly before handling.
- Prepare Potato Shells: Once cooled enough to handle, slice each potato in half lengthwise. Carefully scoop out the flesh into a mixing bowl, leaving a thin shell intact to hold the filling. Arrange the empty potato skins back on the baking sheet for the second bake.
- Make the Filling: Mash the scooped potato flesh with sour cream, unsalted butter, and milk until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency. Stir in sharp white cheddar cheese, diced tart apples, dried cranberries, ground cinnamon, and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Fill and Bake Again: Spoon the prepared filling back into the potato shells, mounding it slightly. Return the stuffed potatoes to the oven and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, or until heated through and lightly golden on top.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally, sprinkle chopped fresh chives or parsley on top for a touch of color and freshness. Serve the cranberry apple twice-baked potatoes warm as a delicious, festive side dish.
Notes
- This sweet and savory twist on a classic side dish is perfect for the holidays.
- You can prepare the potatoes a day ahead and reheat them just before serving for convenience.
- Choose tart apples like Granny Smith to balance the sweetness of cranberries.
- Make sure to leave a thin shell of potato skin to hold the filling properly.
