Maple-Topped Sweet Potato Skins

Pierce potatoes with a fork. Place on an ungreased baking sheet. Bake at 400° for 45 minutes to one hour or microwave on high 15 to 20 minutes, or until tender; cool.

Slice each potato in half lengthwise; scoop out pulp, keeping skins intact. Mash pulp in a mixing bowl until smooth; add cream cheese, sour cream and one teaspoon each of spices. Mix well and spoon into potato skins. Stir together nuts, brown sugar, butter and remaining spices; sprinkle over top. Place potato skins on an ungreased baking sheet; bake at 400° for 15 minutes. If desired, drizzle with warm syrup and garnish with apple slices and additional nuts.

Variation: For a savory version, mash the pulp with 1/2 cup grated Parmasean cheese, the finely grated zest juice of 1 orange, 3 teaspoons salt, 2 teaspoons ground pepper and 3 tablespoons butter; garnish with 1/3 cup lightly toasted pine nuts.