Few side dishes can rival the warm, cozy flavors of roasted sweet potatoes paired with apples and cinnamon. The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes and the tartness of crisp green apples create a perfect balance of flavor, while a hint of cinnamon adds a comforting spice. Drizzling the dish with pure maple syrup at the end elevates it to a subtly indulgent treat that’s perfect for fall dinners, holiday feasts, or simply a wholesome weeknight side. This Roasted Apple Cinnamon Sweet Potatoes recipe is easy to prepare, healthy, and guaranteed to delight both kids and adults alike. It’s one of those dishes that fills the kitchen with a sweet, inviting aroma while promising something delicious on the plate.
Whether you’re serving it alongside roasted meats, grilled chicken, or even a simple grain bowl, this dish adds a touch of warmth and sweetness that makes every meal feel special. Plus, it’s naturally vegetarian, gluten-free, and can easily fit into a vegan or plant-based diet. Its simplicity, paired with incredible flavor, ensures it becomes a staple in your recipe collection.
Recipe Overview
Roasted Apple Cinnamon Sweet Potatoes combine tender, caramelized sweet potatoes with juicy, roasted apples, all lightly spiced with cinnamon and finished with a drizzle of maple syrup. This easy, wholesome side dish brings out the natural flavors of the ingredients while creating a comforting, slightly sweet, and aromatic addition to any meal.
Ingredients & Instructions
Ingredients
2 large sweet potatoes, diced into medium pieces
2 large green apples, such as Granny Smith, diced into medium pieces
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced sweet potatoes, diced apples, cinnamon, and olive oil. Toss everything thoroughly so the potatoes and apples are evenly coated with oil and cinnamon, which helps with roasting and brings out the flavors. Spread the mixture in an even layer on a large baking sheet to ensure that everything cooks evenly and gets slightly caramelized edges. Bake in the preheated oven until the sweet potatoes and apples are tender when pierced with a fork, usually about 25 to 30 minutes depending on the size of your dice. Remove from the oven and immediately drizzle with pure maple syrup, tossing gently if desired to coat. Serve hot as a comforting side dish.
Tips: To maximize flavor, choose firm, crisp apples that hold their shape when roasted. For extra caramelization, use a rimmed baking sheet so the sweet potatoes and apples roast rather than steam. You can also add a pinch of nutmeg or a sprinkle of chopped pecans for added warmth and texture.
Cooking Tips & Variations
This recipe is wonderfully flexible. You can swap sweet potatoes for yams or a mix of root vegetables for variety. Adding other spices like nutmeg, allspice, or ginger can give it a seasonal twist perfect for holidays. If you prefer a sweeter dish, you can increase the maple syrup slightly or even add a touch of brown sugar before roasting. For a savory touch, sprinkle a bit of sea salt over the mixture before baking, which enhances the natural sweetness of the ingredients. This side dish also pairs well with a variety of main courses, from roasted chicken or pork to a simple grain bowl, making it versatile and family-friendly.
Storage & Serving Suggestions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, drizzling a little extra maple syrup if desired. This dish is perfect as a side for holiday meals, weeknight dinners, or even a cozy breakfast alongside eggs. For an extra touch of flavor, garnish with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme before serving. You can also serve it warm on top of a salad or grain bowl for a nutritious and flavorful meal addition.
Roasted Apple Cinnamon Sweet Potatoes are the perfect combination of sweet, savory, and spice. The tender roasted sweet potatoes, juicy apples, warm cinnamon, and maple syrup drizzle create a simple yet memorable side dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for family, entertaining guests, or simply treating yourself to a wholesome dish, this recipe is a delightful way to add warmth and comfort to your table. Its simplicity, wholesome ingredients, and irresistible aroma make it a go-to for any occasion, promising smiles and satisfied appetites with every bite.
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and chop the sweet potatoes and apples ahead of time, then store them in the fridge. Roast them just before serving.
2. Can I use other types of apples?
Absolutely. Firm apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Braeburn work well, though tart varieties like Granny Smith balance the sweetness best.
3. Is this dish vegan?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan when using pure maple syrup and olive oil.
4. How long will leftovers last?
Stored in an airtight container, leftovers will last up to four days in the fridge.
5. Can I add other flavors?
Yes, try nutmeg, ginger, or a sprinkle of chopped pecans for added texture and seasonal warmth.
Roasted Apple Cinnamon Sweet Potatoes combine tender sweet potatoes and juicy apples with warm cinnamon and maple syrup for a simple, flavorful side dish.
