Step 1

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.

Step 2

On a baking sheet, combine the sweet potatoes, olive oil, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1 teaspoon vanilla, and a pinch each of salt and pepper. Arrange in an even layer and transfer to the oven. Roast for 20 minutes, flip and roast another 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Step 3

Meanwhile, melt 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the pecans, cayenne, and remaining 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon. Cook, stirring often until the pecans are toasted, about 5 minutes. Remove from the heat set aside.

Step 4

In a small sauce pan set over medium heat, combine the remaining 6 tablespoons butter, the maple syrup and the bourbon. Bring to a boil and then reduce the heat to low, simmer 5 minutes and then remove from the heat. Stir in the remaining 1 teaspoon vanilla.

Step 5

Remove from the oven and using a fork, gently push down and give the potato a light mash, keeping the potato round mostly intact. Drizzle reach round with a little maple butter and return to the oven for another 5-8 minutes or until the potatoes are crisp.

Step 6

Serve warm, sprinkled with toasted pecans and the remaining maple butter along side.