Apple-Filled Sweet Potatoes

Heat oven to 375°.

Prick sweet potatoes with fork to allow steam to escape.

Bake for 35 to 45 minutes or until fork-tender. Cut thin lengthwise slice from top of each sweet potato; scoop out inside leaving a thin shell.

Set shells aside.

In a large mixer bowl, place hot sweet potato and remaining ingredients except apple, chopped pecans and pecan halves.

Beat at medium speed, scraping bowl often, until well mixed and no lumps remain (2 to 3 minutes).

By hand, stir in apple and chopped pecans.

Place shells on 15 x 10 x 1-inch baking pan; fill shells with sweet potato mixture.

If desired, garnish each sweet potato with pecan halves.

Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until heated through.