Maple Glazed Sweet Potatoes are the perfect blend of earthy sweetness and warm spices, making them a must-have on your fall table. With just a handful of ingredients, this dish transforms humble sweet potatoes into a delightful side that captures the essence of the season.
Sweet potatoes are the star of this dish, offering a natural sweetness and hearty texture that holds up well during roasting. Maple syrup adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness that enhances the potatoes without overpowering them. A touch of butter brings creaminess to the glaze, while cinnamon infuses a warm, spicy note that screams autumn. A dash of salt and black pepper balances the flavors, adding depth and a slight kick. Finally, pecans are optional but add a fantastic crunch and nutty aroma to the final dish.
These maple glazed sweet potatoes pair beautifully with roasted chicken or turkey, making them a great addition to a holiday feast. For a vegetarian option, serve them alongside a hearty grain salad or a bowl of creamy soup. They're versatile enough to work with a variety of main dishes.
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F. This ensures it's at the perfect temperature by the time you're ready to bake. Next, peel your sweet potatoes and cut them into 1-inch cubes. This size is just right for even cooking and ensures each piece gets a lovely glaze.
In a large mixing bowl, combine your melted butter, maple syrup, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Give it a good whisk until all the ingredients are well mixed. Add your sweet potato cubes to this mixture, and toss them until they're fully coated. You want every piece to be bathed in that delicious glaze.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking. Spread the sweet potatoes in a single layer on the sheet. This helps them roast evenly and get that nice caramelization. Pop them into your preheated oven and let them bake for 25-30 minutes. Remember to turn them halfway through to ensure even cooking.
Once they're tender and beautifully caramelized, take them out of the oven. If you're using pecans, sprinkle them on top before serving to add that extra crunch.