Cinnamon Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes

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Sticky, caramelized, and kissed with the warmth of cinnamon, these Cinnamon Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes are the cozy comfort food you didn’t know you were missing. Each bite delivers a rich blend of natural sweetness and savory roasted depth, making them a standout side dish for any fall or winter table. The edges crisp beautifully while the insides stay soft and tender, creating a flavor-packed contrast that melts in your mouth.

Perfect for holiday feasts or casual weeknight dinners, this dish captures the essence of seasonal cooking with minimal effort and maximum flavor. The maple syrup and cinnamon work together to enhance the earthy sweetness of the potatoes, while a touch of black pepper and sea salt keeps the taste well-balanced. Whether served alongside roasted meats or on their own, these sweet potatoes are always a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes Recipe

• Sweet, savory, and perfectly spiced.
• Requires only a handful of pantry staples.
• Naturally gluten-free and vegan.
• Excellent for meal prep and holiday menus.
• A great way to add color and flavor to your plate.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To bring out the best in this dish, you’ll want to be ready with the following essentials:

• Sharp Chef’s Knife: For evenly cutting the sweet potatoes into cubes — consistent sizing helps them cook evenly.
• Cutting Board: Choose a sturdy surface to handle the firm texture of raw sweet potatoes.
• Mixing Bowl: You’ll use this to toss the sweet potatoes with the maple, oil, and spices for even coating.
• Baking Sheet: Preferably a large, rimmed one to allow the potatoes to roast without crowding.
• Parchment Paper: Optional but helpful for easier cleanup and to prevent sticking.
• Oven: Preheated and steady at 400°F (200°C) for optimal roasting.

Each tool plays a crucial role — from clean cuts to a perfect caramelized finish, having the right gear makes all the difference.

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Preparation Tips

Start by peeling the sweet potatoes if you prefer a softer texture — the skin is edible but can be tough. Cut them into uniform 1-inch cubes to ensure even roasting. When mixing the ingredients, make sure every piece is well-coated in maple syrup, cinnamon, oil, and spices for full flavor in every bite. Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; space allows the cubes to roast rather than steam. Flip them halfway through roasting to ensure both sides caramelize evenly. And if you want an extra touch of crisp, broil them for the last 2–3 minutes — just keep a close eye so they don’t burn.

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Ingredients for This Cinnamon Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes Recipe

• 4 cups sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed (about 2 large sweet potatoes)
• 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or melted coconut oil)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for depth)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, for added warmth)

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Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature ensures the sweet potatoes caramelize beautifully on the outside while staying tender inside.

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Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Peel the sweet potatoes if you prefer them without skin, then cut them into 1-inch cubes. Try to keep the pieces as uniform as possible to ensure even roasting.

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Step 3: Mix the Seasoning

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, olive oil, cinnamon, salt, pepper, and optional spices (smoked paprika and nutmeg). This mixture forms the flavorful glaze that coats the potatoes.

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Step 4: Coat the Potatoes

Add the cubed sweet potatoes to the bowl and toss thoroughly until each piece is evenly coated with the maple-cinnamon mixture. Take your time here to ensure complete coverage.

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Step 5: Arrange on a Baking Sheet

Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Spread the sweet potatoes in a single layer, making sure they are not crowded. Overcrowding can cause steaming instead of roasting.

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Step 6: Roast to Perfection

Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for 25–30 minutes. Flip the potatoes halfway through to promote even browning. For extra caramelization, roast an additional 5 minutes or broil briefly at the end.

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Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. These sweet potatoes are best enjoyed warm, with a hint of crisp on the edges and soft, flavorful centers. They make an excellent side dish for any meal, especially holiday spreads.

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Notes

Roasting sweet potatoes with maple syrup and cinnamon creates an irresistible flavor combination that’s both comforting and indulgent. For added depth, consider including a dash of smoked paprika or nutmeg. If you’re cooking for a crowd, this recipe is easy to double — just use two baking sheets and rotate them halfway through roasting. These sweet potatoes also reheat beautifully, making them ideal for meal prep.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Cutting Uneven Cubes: Inconsistent sizing leads to uneven cooking. Some pieces may burn while others remain undercooked.
• Crowding the Pan: Overcrowding the baking sheet traps steam and prevents proper caramelization.
• Skipping the Tossing Step: Failing to coat the sweet potatoes evenly in the maple mixture results in bland spots.
• Not Flipping Midway: Skipping the flip halfway through baking may lead to uneven browning.
• Roasting at a Low Temperature: Lower oven temperatures won’t caramelize the sugars properly, leaving you with mushy potatoes.

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Storage Instructions

Once cooled, store the roasted sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, use an oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes to restore their crispy edges. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain their roasted texture. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months, but note that the texture may soften slightly upon reheating.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per 1 cup serving (approximate values):

• Calories: 220 kcal
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 37g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugars: 13g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Cholesterol: 0mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?

Yes, honey is a great substitute, but keep in mind it will be slightly thicker and a bit more floral in flavor. Lower the oven temp slightly to prevent over-caramelization.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. Roast them the day before and reheat in the oven before serving.

Do I need to peel the sweet potatoes?

Peeling is optional. Leaving the skin on adds texture and nutrients, but make sure to scrub them well.

Can I make this recipe oil-free?

You can skip the oil and use just maple syrup, though the texture might not be as crisp.

Are these sweet potatoes vegan?

Yes, as long as you use maple syrup and not honey, they are completely plant-based.

Can I use yams instead of sweet potatoes?

Yes, yams can be used, but they are starchier and slightly less sweet than sweet potatoes.

How do I make them spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the maple glaze for a sweet-spicy twist.

What main dishes pair well with this?

These pair beautifully with roasted turkey, grilled chicken, pork tenderloin, or even as part of a grain bowl with quinoa and greens.

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Conclusion

Cinnamon Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes are more than just a side dish — they’re a celebration of cozy, seasonal flavors. Easy to prepare yet packed with taste, they offer a perfect balance of sweet and savory that suits both everyday meals and festive gatherings. Once you try them, they’ll become a staple in your fall and winter cooking routine.

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