Maple roasted sweet potatoes are a warm and tasty side dish. They’re sweetened with maple syrup and roasted until they get caramelized and crispy. Yum!
Sometimes, I can’t help but snack on these right off the baking sheet. They’re like little bites of happiness! Just toss them with a drizzle of maple syrup and some spices—so good!
I love serving these sweet potatoes with dinner. They’re easy to make and add a splash of color to my plate, plus everyone seems to enjoy their sweet taste. What’s not to love?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish! Look for firm, smooth-skinned sweet potatoes. If you’re out, you can substitute with butternut squash, which will give a similar sweetness and texture.
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup adds a fantastic flavor. If you need a substitute, try honey or agave syrup, but keep in mind they will slightly change the taste.
Cinnamon: This spice enhances the sweetness of the potatoes. If you want a different flavor, try nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice, which adds a seasonal twist to your dish.
Pecans: They provide a nice crunch, but feel free to swap in walnuts or skip them if you prefer a nut-free option. Adding toasted seeds, like pumpkin or sunflower seeds, can work too!
How Do I Get My Sweet Potatoes Crispy?
To achieve that perfect crispy texture on your sweet potatoes, it’s important to follow a few key steps:
- Ensure sweet potatoes are cut evenly into 1-inch cubes. This helps them roast evenly.
- Toss them well with oil and syrup, but don’t overdo it! Too much liquid can make them soggy.
- Lay them out in a single layer on the baking sheet. This prevents steaming by allowing moisture to escape.
- Stir halfway through cooking to promote browning on all sides.
Following these tips will help you achieve golden and delicious sweet potatoes every time!
Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary or 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1/2 cup pecan halves (optional, for added crunch)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare and then around 25-30 minutes to roast in the oven. So, you’re looking at about 40-45 minutes total from start to finish. Easy and quick for a wholesome side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature helps to get the sweet potatoes nice and caramelized. If you have parchment paper, line a large baking sheet with it; if not, just give it a light grease with cooking spray or a little oil.
2. Coat the Sweet Potatoes:
In a big bowl, toss your cubed sweet potatoes with olive oil, maple syrup, ground cinnamon, salt, pepper, and rosemary. Mix everything together until the sweet potatoes are evenly coated. This mixture adds flavor and helps the edges crisp up!
3. Spread and Prepare for Roasting:
Next, take your sweet potatoes and spread them out in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. If you want a nutty crunch, you can sprinkle the pecan halves on top of the sweet potatoes now.
4. Roast to Perfection:
Now, pop those sweet potatoes into the oven! Roast them for about 25 to 30 minutes. Be sure to give them a quick stir halfway through the cooking time to ensure they cook evenly and caramelize nicely on all sides.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re tender and golden brown on the edges, remove them from the oven. Transfer the sweet potatoes to a serving dish and, if you like, add a few extra sprigs of fresh rosemary for garnish. Serve them warm and enjoy the sweet and savory flavors!
These maple roasted sweet potatoes are sure to be a hit at your meal. Sweet, savory, and deliciously fragrant – perfect for any occasion!
Can I Use Regular Potatoes Instead of Sweet Potatoes?
While you can use regular potatoes, they will have a different flavor and texture. Sweet potatoes offer a natural sweetness that complements the maple syrup beautifully. If you’re looking for a similar sweet taste, try using butternut squash as an alternative!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
This recipe is already vegan-friendly since it uses maple syrup and olive oil, which are plant-based. Just ensure that the pecans, if used, are raw or dry-roasted without any added ingredients that aren’t vegan.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover maple roasted sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven or microwave until heated through. You can also toss them in a skillet for a quick stovetop reheating!
What Can I Serve with Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes?
These sweet potatoes pair wonderfully with a variety of dishes! They make a great side for roasted meats, grilled chicken, or plant-based proteins. You can also serve them over a bed of greens for a delicious salad or alongside quinoa for a nutritious bowl.
