There’s something irresistible about the way sweet potatoes caramelize, their natural sweetness amplified by the sticky, golden sheen of maple glaze. Maple Glazed Sweet Potatoes are a comfort food classic, blending earthy goodness with a hint of indulgent luxury. Perfect for gatherings, holiday tables, or just sprucing up an everyday dinner, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that shines in both flavor and presentation. Bonus? It’s so simple to make, you’ll find yourself whipping it up again and again.
Follow this tried-and-true recipe for tender, perfectly glazed sweet potatoes that will have everyone asking for seconds (and maybe thirds!).
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this dish come to life:
- 4 medium-sized sweet potatoes (about 2 pounds), peeled and cut into 1-inch rounds or cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 3 tablespoons light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- A pinch of black pepper (optional, for a touch of contrast)
- Optional garnish: chopped pecans, fresh thyme, or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt
Note: Be sure to use pure maple syrup for the best flavor. The richness and depth it adds can’t be beaten!
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Sweet Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into even-sized pieces. This ensures that they cook evenly and all achieve that perfect texture—soft on the inside and caramelized on the outside.
Step 2: Make the Maple Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil (or melted butter), maple syrup, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper (if using). This mixture should smell amazing already!
Step 3: Coat the Sweet Potatoes
Place the sweet potatoes on the prepared baking sheet. Pour the maple glaze evenly over them and toss everything together until the potatoes are fully coated. Spread them out in a single layer, ensuring there’s enough space between the pieces for proper caramelization.
Step 4: Roast to Perfection
Pop the tray into the oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes, flipping the sweet potatoes halfway through cooking. You’ll know they’re done when the potatoes are fork-tender, golden, and slightly crisp around the edges. The glaze should have thickened and clung beautifully to the sweet potatoes.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle with optional toppings like chopped pecans (for crunch) or fresh thyme (for a hint of herbal brightness). If you’re feeling fancy, finish with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for that perfect sweet-salty balance.
Serve warm and watch as they disappear from the table!
Tips for Serving and Variations
- Family Dinner Favorite: Pair Maple Glazed Sweet Potatoes with roasted chicken or pork tenderloin for a cozy, well-rounded meal.
- Perfect for Holidays: This dish is a Thanksgiving and Christmas superstar! Add a handful of dried cranberries for a festive twist.
- Make it Vegan: Use olive oil in place of butter and verify your other ingredients are plant-based.
- Add a Spicy Kick: For those who love a bit of heat, sprinkle some cayenne or chili flakes into the maple glaze.
- Mash It Up: If you’re a fan of creamy textures, you can mash the roasted sweet potatoes after cooking and swirl in the maple glaze for a luscious alternative.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Not only is it simple to prepare, but the flavors also strike the perfect balance between sweet and savory. The natural sweetness of the maple syrup paired with the spices makes every bite feel like a warm hug. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a special celebration, Maple Glazed Sweet Potatoes will quickly become one of your go-to recipes.
Go ahead—grab those sweet potatoes and your bottle of maple syrup. This quick and hearty dish is waiting to be a dazzling star at your table!
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