Here's a detailed step-by-step guide on how to make a delicious Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans:

Ingredients:

- 4 large sweet potatoes

- 1/2 cup granulated sugar

- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

- 2 large eggs

- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

- 1/3 cup milk

- 1/2 teaspoon salt

- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

- For the Pecan Topping:

- 1/2 cup chopped pecans

- 1/2 cup brown sugar

- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour

- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

Instructions:

Preparing the Sweet Potatoes:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Wash the sweet potatoes and place them on a baking sheet. Prick them with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking.

3. Bake the sweet potatoes for about 45-60 minutes, or until they are tender. You can check their doneness by inserting a fork into the center; it should go in easily.

4. Remove the sweet potatoes from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Then peel off the skin.

5. Place the peeled sweet potatoes in a large mixing bowl and mash them with a potato masher or a fork until smooth.

Making the Sweet Potato Mixture:

6. Add the granulated sugar, softened butter, eggs, vanilla extract, milk, salt, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and ground ginger to the mashed sweet potatoes.

7. Mix all the ingredients together until well combined. You can use a hand mixer for a smoother consistency.

Preparing the Pecan Topping:

8. In a separate bowl, combine the chopped pecans, brown sugar, all-purpose flour, and melted butter. Mix until you have a crumbly topping.

Assembling and Baking:

9. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

10. Transfer the sweet potato mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.

11. Sprinkle the pecan topping evenly over the sweet potato mixture, covering it entirely.

12. Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown, and the casserole is heated through.

Serving:

13. Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. It's best served warm.

Enjoy your homemade Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans! It makes a delightful side dish for holiday meals or any special occasion.