There’s something about the warm aroma of cinnamon and maple syrup mingling with sweet potatoes that feels like a cozy hug for your kitchen. This Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes Recipe is one of my go-to dishes when I want a side that’s both comforting and a little bit special.
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
I honestly can't get enough of how the maple syrup caramelizes just right during roasting, giving these sweet potatoes a perfect balance of sweet and savory. It’s easy to make and pleases nearly every palate at the table.
- Simple ingredients: You only need a handful of staples to create big flavor.
- Easy prep: Just toss, roast, and drizzle – no complicated steps.
- Perfect for any occasion: Works beautifully for weeknight dinners or holiday sides.
- Customizable texture: You decide how crispy or soft you want your sweet potatoes.
Ingredients & Why They Work
This recipe shines because each ingredient complements the sweetness and natural earthiness of the potatoes. The olive oil helps crisp up the edges while the cinnamon adds warmth that pairs beautifully with the maple syrup’s rich sweetness.
- Sweet Potatoes: Choose firm and brightly colored yams for the best natural sweetness and texture.
- Olive Oil: Adds a subtle richness and helps the edges get delightfully crisp.
- Kosher Salt: Balances the sweetness and heightens all the flavors.
- Pure Maple Syrup: This is the star for that signature sweet glaze—don’t substitute with pancake syrup!
- Ground Cinnamon: Provides a warm, comforting spice note that pairs perfectly with maple.
- Chopped Candied Pecans or Walnuts (optional): Adds crunchy texture and a nutty contrast that’s just awesome on top.
Make It Your Way
One of the best things about this Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes Recipe is how flexible it is. I like to switch up the garnish or add a little extra spice depending on the mood or season.
- Variation: I sometimes add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness—totally worth trying if you like a kick!
- Seasonal tweak: Try tossing in some chopped fresh rosemary or thyme for an herbal twist during winter months.
- Dietary modification: This recipe is naturally gluten-free and vegan, making it perfect for sharing with guests who have dietary restrictions.
Step-by-Step: How I Make Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Sweet Potatoes
Start by peeling (if you prefer) and cutting your sweet potatoes into 1-inch cubes. I like them uniform so they roast evenly. Line a baking sheet with parchment or foil—makes cleanup a breeze—and give it a quick spray with nonstick cooking spray. This little step is a game-changer for crispier results without sticking.
Step 2: Roast the Sweet Potatoes
Toss the cubed sweet potatoes in olive oil to coat, then spread them out in a single layer with some room to breathe. Sprinkle kosher salt evenly over the top. Pop them into a 425°F oven for 20 minutes. This initial roasting softens the potatoes while starting to develop some golden color.
Step 3: Add the Maple Cinnamon Glaze
While the potatoes roast, mix your pure maple syrup with a hint of cinnamon in a small bowl. After 20 minutes, pull the sweet potatoes out and drizzle this syrupy mixture over them. Give everything a gentle toss so each cube is coated with that luscious glaze. Spread them back evenly on the pan—you want to keep that single layer for maximum crispiness.
Step 4: Finish Roasting to Perfection
Return the pan to the oven for another 5 to 10 minutes, depending on how crispy you like your potatoes. I always check at 5 minutes and give them a stir to ensure even crisping. The edges get beautifully caramelized and that maple aroma fills your kitchen—the kind of scent that makes everyone curious about dinner!
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Transfer your maple roasted sweet potatoes to a serving dish and sprinkle with chopped candied pecans or walnuts if you’re going the extra mile. The nuts add crunch and a delightful contrast that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Serve immediately—these are best enjoyed warm and fresh!
Top Tip
From my experience making this recipe multiple times, these tips will steer you toward sweet potato perfection every time.
- Single Layer on the Baking Sheet: Crowding your sweet potatoes will steam them instead of roasting, so give them space for that crisp, caramelized edge.
- Maple Syrup Quality: Use real, pure maple syrup—it makes a huge difference in flavor and caramelization compared to imitation syrups.
- Watch the Oven Time: Keep an eye during the final roast to avoid burning the maple glaze; 5 minutes is usually enough for most ovens.
- Even Pieces: Chop your sweet potatoes into uniform sizes for consistent cooking and texture.
How to Serve Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
I usually stick to chopped candied pecans because the sweetness and crunch pair perfectly, but candied walnuts are also a great option. Occasionally, I toss on a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley to add a pop of color and fresh contrast against all that rich sweetness.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with roasted chicken or pork tenderloin. I also love serving it alongside green beans sautéed with garlic or a simple mixed green salad to balance out the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For holiday dinners, I’ve served these sweet potatoes in a rustic cast iron skillet right from oven to table— it keeps them warm and makes for a cozy presentation. You could also mound them in a pretty bowl and sprinkle extra nuts and fresh thyme leaves for a fancy touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. I like to spread them out on a plate before refrigerating so they cool evenly and don’t get soggy.
Freezing
Freezing roasted sweet potatoes is doable but I’ve noticed they can lose a bit of crispness after thawing. If you want to freeze them, flash freeze the roasted cubes on a baking sheet first, then transfer to bags to prevent clumping.
Reheating
Reheat in a 375°F oven to help them crisp back up—microwaving tends to make them soft and mushy. Just spread them evenly on a baking sheet and warm for about 10 minutes or until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions:
While you can, this particular recipe is built around the natural sweetness and texture of sweet potatoes. White potatoes won’t caramelize the same way with maple syrup and may require a different roasting time.
Using parchment paper or foil along with a light spray of nonstick cooking spray is key. Also, tossing the potatoes well with olive oil before roasting helps keep them from sticking. Avoid overcrowding so they roast instead of steam.
You can roast the sweet potatoes a day ahead and reheat them in the oven before serving, but for the best texture and flavor, I recommend dressing them with the maple-cinnamon glaze close to serving time.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Spread them out to cool before sealing to help maintain crispness. Reheat in the oven rather than microwave for best texture.
Final Thoughts
This Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes Recipe is one of those dishes I always recommend because it’s an easy way to elevate your dinner table. The cozy blend of maple and cinnamon never fails to bring smiles—and somehow makes even simple weeknights feel special. Give it a try; I promise you’ll be hooked just like I am!
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Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes are a perfect balance of natural sweetness and warm spices, making a delightful side dish for any meal. Tender sweet potatoes are roasted to crispy perfection, then glazed with a cinnamon-infused maple syrup and optionally topped with crunchy candied nuts for added texture and flavor.
Ingredients
Sweet Potatoes
- 2 lbs sweet potatoes, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
Maple Cinnamon Glaze
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Garnish (optional)
- Chopped candied pecans or candied walnuts
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and lightly grease it with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Sweet Potatoes: Spread the sweet potato cubes on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer without touching. Drizzle with olive oil and toss thoroughly to coat each piece well. Sprinkle the kosher salt evenly over the potatoes.
- First Roast: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the sweet potatoes for 20 minutes to start softening and browning them.
- Mix Maple Cinnamon Glaze: While the potatoes are roasting, combine the pure maple syrup and ground cinnamon in a small bowl, stirring until fully blended.
- Apply Glaze and Stir: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and drizzle the maple cinnamon mixture over the roasted sweet potatoes. Toss gently to evenly coat all pieces and rearrange into an even layer on the pan.
- Final Roast: Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes. Stir halfway through this period to ensure even cooking and caramelization. Check at 5 minutes to adjust doneness if needed.
- Serve and Garnish: Remove the sweet potatoes from the oven and transfer them to a serving bowl or platter. Garnish with chopped candied pecans or walnuts if desired. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- The combination of maple syrup and cinnamon creates a flavorful sweetness that complements the natural taste of sweet potatoes.
- For added texture and nutty flavor, garnish with chopped candied pecans or walnuts.
- Make sure to spread the sweet potatoes in a single layer to ensure even roasting and crispiness.
- Check the sweet potatoes near the end of roasting to avoid overcooking or burning.
- This side dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or as part of a vegetarian meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 190 kcal
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 270 mg
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
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