Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. This step is crucial, ensuring the casserole bakes evenly and comes out perfectly warm. While the oven heats, grab a 9×9 casserole dish and set it aside, ready for the delicious mixture.
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, 1/4 cup of coconut milk, butter, vanilla bean paste, brown sugar, and pumpkin pie spice. Stir everything together until well mixed. If the mixture appears a bit thick or isn’t smooth enough, you can add more coconut milk gradually until you reach your desired consistency. Taste the mixture and adjust with Kosher salt if necessary; this will enhance the overall flavor beautifully.
Once the mixture is smooth and creamy, spoon it into your prepared casserole dish. Spread it evenly to ensure every bite is filled with that delicious flavor. This is the foundation of your Vanilla Sweet Potato Casserole, and the anticipation is already building!
Now, it’s time to add the toppings. Generously sprinkle 1 tablespoon of vanilla sugar over the sweet potato mixture. This will create a lovely caramelization during baking. Next, add the granola evenly across the top, followed by the miniature marshmallows. The marshmallows will melt and create a delightful, gooey layer that everyone loves!
Carefully place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye on it! You want the mixture to be warmed throughout and the marshmallows to achieve a lovely golden-brown color. This is when the aromas will fill your kitchen, making it hard for anyone to resist sneaking a taste.
Once it’s done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will allow the flavors to settle and make serving easier. It’s hard to resist diving in right away, but trust me, it’s worth the wait!
To serve, scoop generous portions onto plates, making sure each serving has a bit of the toasted marshmallow and crunchy granola. Watch as your guests’ faces light up with joy upon tasting this warm, comforting casserole.
Enjoy every moment as you share this dish with friends and family. The Vanilla Sweet Potato Casserole is more than just food; it’s a way to create memories together around the table.
