Spiced Maple Oven Roasted Sweet Potatoes are a cozy and flavorful side dish perfect for those cooler months when you're craving something sweet, spicy, and comforting. These potatoes are coated in a delightful maple syrup and spice mixture, bringing a warm, inviting aroma to your kitchen.
Sweet Potatoes are the star of the show, providing natural sweetness and a soft, satisfying texture when roasted. Olive Oil helps to coat and crisp the potatoes, ensuring they roast evenly. Maple Syrup adds a rich, caramelized sweetness that complements the natural sugars in the potatoes. Cinnamon brings a warm, aromatic spice that pairs beautifully with the sweet elements. A dash of Cayenne Pepper adds a subtle heat that balances the sweetness perfectly. Salt and Black Pepper enhance all the flavors and add a savory depth. Finally, fresh Thyme Leaves provide a hint of earthiness and a pop of color to the dish.
These sweet potatoes pair wonderfully with roasted chicken or pork tenderloin. They’re also great alongside a hearty salad or as part of a holiday feast with turkey or ham.
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it's nice and hot when you pop the potatoes in, helping them to crisp up rather than steam. While it's heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Next, grab a large mixing bowl. You'll combine olive oil, maple syrup, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper in it. Give this mixture a good stir — you're aiming for a uniform blend that will evenly coat your sweet potatoes.
Now, add your cubed sweet potatoes to the bowl. Toss them well so each piece gets a nice, even coating of this delicious spice mixture. Spread them out on your prepared baking sheet in a single layer; this helps them roast evenly.
Roast the sweet potatoes in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Halfway through, give them a quick turn with a spatula to ensure they caramelize beautifully on all sides. They’re done when they're tender and have a lovely golden hue.
Once out of the oven, sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves. This final touch not only adds flavor but also a bit of visual flair. Serve them hot and enjoy!