Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Cinnamon

It’s funny how some of the simplest recipes become family staples. For us, these Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Cinnamon are exactly that. I stumbled upon this recipe years ago, just looking for a healthier side dish to break away from our usual mashed potatoes and rice routine. Honestly, I wasn’t expecting much – sweet potatoes seemed…well, just okay. But the moment these came out of the oven, the aroma of warm cinnamon and caramelized sweet potato filled the kitchen, and I knew we were onto something good. My kids, who are generally picky eaters when it comes to vegetables, devoured them. Even my husband, a self-proclaimed meat-and-potatoes guy, asked for seconds! Since then, these cinnamon roasted sweet potatoes have become a regular feature on our dinner table, especially during the fall and winter months. They’re incredibly easy to make, require minimal ingredients, and deliver a flavor punch that’s both comforting and subtly sweet. If you’re looking for a simple yet satisfying side dish that everyone will love, look no further – this is it!

Ingredients

• Sweet Potatoes: 3 large sweet potatoes, about 2 pounds total. Choose firm sweet potatoes, preferably of similar size for even roasting. Yams or garnet sweet potatoes work beautifully.
• Olive Oil: 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil. Provides healthy fats, helps the sweet potatoes roast evenly, and enhances flavor. Avocado oil or coconut oil are also great alternatives.
• Ground Cinnamon: 1.5 teaspoons ground cinnamon. The star spice, adding warmth and a touch of sweetness that complements the sweet potatoes perfectly.
• Salt: 1 teaspoon sea salt or kosher salt. Essential for balancing the sweetness and enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• Optional: Maple Syrup or Honey: 1-2 tablespoons (for extra sweetness). Adds a touch of extra sweetness and glaze, especially if you prefer a dessert-like side dish. Use sparingly or omit for a less sweet version.
• Optional: Pinch of Nutmeg or Ginger: A tiny pinch of ground nutmeg or ginger can deepen the spice notes and add complexity.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Sweet Potatoes

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating, prepare the sweet potatoes. Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly under cool running water to remove any dirt or debris. You can choose to peel the sweet potatoes or leave the skin on – it’s a matter of personal preference. Peeling will result in a smoother texture, while leaving the skin on adds more fiber and nutrients, and a slightly rustic texture. If you choose to peel, use a vegetable peeler to remove the skin.

Once washed and peeled (or not peeled), it’s time to cut the sweet potatoes. For even roasting, it’s crucial to cut them into uniform pieces. Aim for roughly 1-inch cubes or wedges. Larger pieces will take longer to cook, while smaller pieces might become too soft or even burn. Start by slicing the sweet potatoes lengthwise, then cut each slice into strips, and finally, cut the strips into cubes. If you prefer wedges, simply cut the sweet potatoes lengthwise into quarters or sixths, depending on their size.

Step 2: Season the Sweet Potatoes

Place the cubed or wedged sweet potatoes in a large bowl. Drizzle the olive oil over the sweet potatoes. Using your hands or a spatula, toss them to ensure that all pieces are evenly coated with oil. This is important as the oil prevents sticking, promotes browning, and helps the spices adhere to the sweet potatoes.

Next, sprinkle the ground cinnamon and salt over the oiled sweet potatoes. If you’re using optional spices like nutmeg or ginger, add them now as well. Toss everything together again, making sure the spices are distributed evenly and coat all sides of the sweet potato pieces. For a more intense flavor, you can gently massage the spices into the sweet potatoes with your hands. This helps the flavors penetrate and ensures every bite is flavorful. If you are opting for maple syrup or honey for extra sweetness, drizzle it over the seasoned sweet potatoes and toss to combine.

Step 3: Roast the Sweet Potatoes

Spread the seasoned sweet potatoes in a single layer on a large baking sheet. It’s crucial to avoid overcrowding the pan. Overcrowding will cause the sweet potatoes to steam rather than roast, resulting in a softer, less caramelized texture. If necessary, use two baking sheets to ensure they have enough space.

Roast in the preheated oven for 25-35 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and slightly caramelized. Halfway through the roasting time, around 15-20 minutes, flip the sweet potatoes using a spatula. This ensures even browning and cooking on all sides. To check for doneness, pierce a sweet potato cube with a fork. It should be easily pierced and feel tender throughout. The edges should be slightly golden brown and caramelized, indicating they are perfectly roasted.

Step 4: Cool Slightly and Serve

Once the sweet potatoes are roasted to perfection, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Let them cool slightly on the baking sheet for a few minutes before serving. This allows them to retain their shape and prevents burning your mouth. Roasted sweet potatoes are best served warm. They can be enjoyed immediately as a side dish or used in various recipes. If you’re not serving them right away, you can keep them warm in a low oven (around 200°F or 95°C) for a short period, but be careful not to overcook them further.

Nutrition Facts

(Per Serving, approximate, based on 6 servings)

• Serving Size: Approximately ¾ cup
• Calories: 150-180 kcal
• Fat: 6-8g
• Vitamin A: Significantly high (over 100% DV)

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. Adding maple syrup or honey will increase the sugar and calorie content.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15-20 minutes (washing, peeling/chopping sweet potatoes)
• Cook Time: 25-35 minutes (roasting in the oven)
• Total Time: 40-55 minutes

This recipe is relatively quick and straightforward to prepare. The majority of the time is hands-off, spent roasting in the oven. The prep time can be reduced if you are efficient at chopping vegetables. You can also save time by purchasing pre-cut sweet potatoes, although cutting them yourself ensures you get the desired size and shape. The roasting time may vary slightly depending on your oven and the size of the sweet potato pieces. Always check for doneness using a fork.

How to Serve Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Cinnamon

These versatile roasted sweet potatoes can be served in numerous ways, making them a fantastic addition to any meal. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Classic Side Dish: Serve them alongside your favorite main courses. They pair wonderfully with:
  • Roasted chicken or turkey
  • Grilled fish or salmon
  • Lentil loaf or vegetarian main dishes
  • Pork tenderloin or chops (if you are not strictly avoiding meat)
  • Steak or burgers (for a balanced meal)
• Holiday Table Staple: Roasted sweet potatoes with cinnamon are a perfect addition to holiday feasts like Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter. Their warm, comforting flavors complement traditional holiday dishes beautifully.
• Salad Topping: Add roasted sweet potatoes to your favorite salads for a boost of flavor, texture, and nutrients. They are delicious in:
  • Warm grain salads with quinoa or farro
  • Spinach salads with pecans and cranberries
  • Arugula salads with balsamic vinaigrette
  • Kale salads with roasted chickpeas
• Grain Bowl Component: Create wholesome and satisfying grain bowls by incorporating roasted sweet potatoes. Combine them with:
  • Quinoa, brown rice, or farro
  • Black beans or chickpeas
  • Avocado
  • Sautéed greens like spinach or kale
  • A tahini or lemon dressing
• Breakfast or Brunch Addition: For a slightly sweeter breakfast or brunch option, serve them with:
  • Yogurt and granola
  • Scrambled eggs or omelets
  • Pancakes or waffles (as a side)
  • Breakfast bowls with grains and fruits
• Sweet Potato “Fries” Alternative: For a healthier alternative to fries, serve these cinnamon roasted sweet potatoes as “fries” with your favorite dipping sauce, like:
  • Greek yogurt dip
  • Spicy mayo
  • Honey mustard
  • Avocado crema
• Stuffing Ingredient: Incorporate diced roasted sweet potatoes into your stuffing or dressing recipes for added sweetness and texture, especially during the holidays.
• Taco or Burrito Filling: Get creative and use them as a filling for vegetarian tacos or burritos. Combine them with:
  • Black beans
  • Salsa
  • Avocado
  • Cilantro

Additional Tips for Perfect Roasted Sweet Potatoes

1. Choose the Right Sweet Potatoes: Opt for firm sweet potatoes without blemishes or soft spots. Varieties like Garnet or Jewel sweet potatoes are excellent for roasting due to their moist flesh and rich flavor. Try to select sweet potatoes of similar size for even cooking.
2. Cut Sweet Potatoes Uniformly: Consistent size is key for even roasting. Whether you choose cubes or wedges, aim for pieces that are roughly the same size to ensure they cook at the same rate. This prevents some pieces from being undercooked while others are overcooked.
3. Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Give the sweet potatoes space to roast properly. Overcrowding will trap steam and prevent browning, resulting in softer, less caramelized sweet potatoes. Use two baking sheets if necessary to ensure a single layer.
4. Roast at High Heat: 400°F (200°C) is the ideal temperature for roasting sweet potatoes. High heat promotes caramelization and creates those slightly crispy edges we all love. Lower temperatures will result in softer, less flavorful sweet potatoes.
5. Use Quality Cinnamon: The quality of your cinnamon will impact the final flavor. Opt for fresh, good quality ground cinnamon for the best aroma and taste. If you have cinnamon sticks, you can even grind your own for an even fresher flavor.
6. Experiment with Spices: While cinnamon is the star, don’t be afraid to experiment with other complementary spices. A pinch of nutmeg, ginger, cloves, or even a hint of chili powder can add depth and complexity to the flavor profile. Consider adding a touch of smoked paprika for a smoky sweetness.
7. Consider Adding a Touch of Sweetness (Optional): While sweet potatoes are naturally sweet, a drizzle of maple syrup or honey before roasting can enhance their sweetness and create a lovely glaze. Add it sparingly, especially if you are watching your sugar intake, or omit it entirely if you prefer a less sweet version.
8. Flip Halfway Through: Flipping the sweet potatoes halfway through the roasting time is crucial for even browning on all sides. This ensures that they are perfectly cooked and caramelized all over, not just on one side.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use different types of sweet potatoes for this recipe?

A: Yes, you can! While Garnet and Jewel sweet potatoes are recommended, you can also use other varieties like Beauregard or even Japanese sweet potatoes. “Yams” often found in grocery stores are typically just another type of sweet potato. The roasting time may vary slightly depending on the variety, so always check for doneness.

Q2: Can I roast sweet potatoes with the skin on?

A: Absolutely! Roasting sweet potatoes with the skin on is perfectly fine and adds more fiber and nutrients. Just make sure to wash them thoroughly before cutting. The skin will become slightly crispy during roasting and is perfectly edible. Peeling is a matter of personal preference.

Q3: What other spices can I add to roasted sweet potatoes?

A: Besides cinnamon, many spices complement sweet potatoes beautifully. Nutmeg, ginger, cloves, allspice, cardamom, and even a pinch of chili powder or smoked paprika are excellent additions. You can also add herbs like rosemary or thyme for a more savory twist.

Q4: How do I prevent roasted sweet potatoes from getting mushy?

A: To prevent mushy sweet potatoes, ensure you don’t overcrowd the baking sheet, roast at a high temperature (400°F/200°C), and avoid overcooking them. Cutting them into uniform pieces also helps. Don’t add too much oil, as excessive oil can also contribute to a softer texture.

Q5: Can I make these roasted sweet potatoes ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare roasted sweet potatoes ahead of time. Roast them as directed, let them cool completely, and then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving. They might lose a bit of their crispiness upon reheating, but will still be delicious.

Q6: How do I store leftover roasted sweet potatoes?

A: Store leftover roasted sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure they are completely cooled before refrigerating.

Q7: Can I freeze roasted sweet potatoes?

A: Yes, you can freeze roasted sweet potatoes, although the texture might change slightly upon thawing. Spread cooled roasted sweet potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven or microwave.

Q8: What are the health benefits of sweet potatoes and cinnamon?

A: Sweet potatoes are nutritional powerhouses, packed with Vitamin A, Vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. They are also a good source of potassium and manganese. Cinnamon is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and may help regulate blood sugar levels. Combining these two ingredients creates a delicious and healthy side dish that’s both satisfying and good for you.

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