Maple Glazed Baked Sweet Potatoes

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 45 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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If you're craving a cozy, autumn-inspired dish with a touch of sweetness, these Maple Glazed Baked Sweet Potatoes are just what you need. With a delightful mix of spices and a hint of maple syrup, this recipe transforms humble sweet potatoes into a side dish that's perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients for Maple Glazed Baked Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are the star of the show, offering a naturally sweet flavor and creamy texture when baked. Maple syrup adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness that complements the earthiness of the potatoes. Olive oil helps to crisp up the edges and infuses the dish with a subtle fruity flavor. A sprinkle of sea salt and ground black pepper enhances all the other flavors. Cinnamon and nutmeg bring warmth and depth, while fresh thyme adds a pop of freshness. Finally, pecans provide a satisfying crunch and nutty finish.

Tips & Tricks

  • For an extra crispy edge, flip the potatoes halfway through the roasting time.
  • Use a rimmed baking sheet to prevent the glaze from dripping off.
  • If you don’t have fresh thyme, dried thyme works too—just use half the amount.

Serving Suggestions

These sweet potatoes pair beautifully with roasted chicken or turkey, making them an excellent choice for a holiday meal. You can also serve them alongside a hearty grain salad or a simple green salad to keep things light and fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use yams instead of sweet potatoes?
Yes, yams can be used, but they tend to be starchier and less sweet than sweet potatoes.
What if I don’t have maple syrup?
Honey can be a good substitute, though it will have a different flavor profile.

Maple Glazed Baked Sweet Potatoes Recipe Walkthrough

First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, give your sweet potatoes a good scrub under running water to remove any dirt. No need to peel them as the skin adds flavor and nutrients.

Next, slice each sweet potato in half lengthwise. This increases the surface area for the delicious glaze to soak into. Lay them cut side up on a baking sheet; they’re ready to be dressed.

In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, olive oil, sea salt, black pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This mixture will serve as the glaze. Use a brush to generously coat the cut sides of the sweet potatoes with this mixture, ensuring they’re well covered.

Pop your sweet potatoes into the preheated oven. Let them roast for about 45-50 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they’re tender to the touch and have developed a caramelized glaze on top.

Once out of the oven, sprinkle the sweet potatoes with the chopped fresh thyme and pecans. The thyme will enhance the earthy sweetness, and the pecans add a lovely crunch.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Simple ingredients that pack a flavorful punch.
  • A perfect balance of sweet and savory, with a hint of spice.
  • Minimal prep time, allowing you to focus on enjoying the meal.
  • Nutritious and filling, making it a guilt-free indulgence.

Ingredients

2 large sweet potatoes
1/4 cup maple syrup
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon sea salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
1 tablespoon finely chopped pecans

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wash and scrub sweet potatoes thoroughly.
3. Slice sweet potatoes in half lengthwise and place them on a baking sheet, cut side up.
4. In a small bowl, mix together maple syrup, olive oil, salt, pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
5. Brush the sweet potatoes generously with the maple syrup mixture.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
7. Remove from oven and garnish with chopped thyme and pecans before serving.

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